Oh Couture - Artisanal Knitwear
From rebuilding after heartbreak to launching a luxury fashion brand
Following a devastating series of fires that destroyed her previous business, designer Olivia Hayes turned personal loss into a new beginning with the launch of OH Couture—a luxury knitwear brand focused on timeless design, premium quality and meaningful craftsmanship.
Based in Northern Ireland, OH Couture creates beautifully curated knitwear collections for independent boutiques alongside bespoke commission pieces for individual clients. Inspired by heritage knitting traditions and a commitment to slow, intentional fashion, the brand is quickly establishing itself as a distinctive name in contemporary luxury knitwear.
After losing three businesses to fire damage within just eight weeks, Olivia stepped away for 12 months to recover and reflect on what came next. Having spent over 20 years building a successful career, the experience was deeply traumatic, but it also became the catalyst for reinvention.
“I realised I could still create in a different way. I still had that creativity in me.”
While searching for support during that period, Olivia discovered Enterprise Causeway online and began working with the team to develop her new business idea into a commercially viable brand.
“The support has been a godsend. The mentorship and strategic guidance have been unbelievable.”
Through one-to-one mentoring and business support, Olivia gained clarity, confidence and direction. Enterprise Causeway helped refine the business model, supported the development of business plans and pitches, and provided guidance that accelerated the journey from concept to launch.
In less than 12 months, OH Couture evolved from an idea into a professionally positioned wholesale brand with a growing identity and its first Belfast retailer preparing to stock the collection.
For Olivia, reaching the stage of launching within a designer setting has been a major milestone—one she never imagined would happen so quickly.
“I’ve been able to design, create and dream about something, and here I am within 12 months launching a product. It’s far beyond what I imagined.”
At the heart of OH Couture is a strong connection to heritage, resilience and family. The collection draws inspiration from traditional knitwear techniques while promoting quality over fast fashion. Olivia’s first commissioned piece, titled The Rock, pays tribute to her husband and family, whose support helped carry her through the challenges of rebuilding her life and career.
The business also reflects Olivia’s passion for supporting local suppliers and craftsmanship. Working with local mills and alpaca farms, she has built relationships within the community to create products with genuine meaning and authenticity.
“It takes a whole community to bring something like this to life.”
Beyond building a new business, the journey has also been one of personal transformation. Olivia speaks openly about overcoming fear, rebuilding confidence and discovering resilience she never knew she had.
“We don’t really know our strength until we’re tested to the limits.”
As OH Couture continues to grow, Olivia remains focused on creating thoughtful, empowering designs while embracing every opportunity ahead. With strong foundations, growing retail interest and a powerful story behind the brand, the future looks incredibly promising.