Graduates of the Jimmy Choo Academy, including Demi O'Shea second from the left. JCA
The Dublin native credits her artistic endeavors to those nostalgia-inspiring books of paper dolls that you could style.
Speaking to EVOKE, Demi explained that she used to get "fed up" with the outfits provided and would tap into her creative side and draw her own.
After sitting the Leaving Certificate, Demi was "in two minds" about whether she wanted to go into the world of business or the world of fashion.
She studied in Coláiste Dhulaigh before the opportunity arose for her to jet across the pond to London and join the Jimmy Choo Academy (JCA).
Demi told EVOKE she had been enjoying a holiday on the River Shannon when an ad of sorts popped up on her Instagram feed for JCA applications. "I went and had a little Google and I applied, it just started from there."
The Dubliner noted that it's "so surreal" to have become the first Irish graduate of the JCA, adding: "I was dreaming that I wanted to become a designer and, you know, it's all happening so fast."
Demi presented her first-ever collection during the JCA Boston Manor show on June 28. This collection was inspired by the mental health crisis in Ireland.
Sustainability is at the core of the Dublin native's designs. She's trying to reduce mass production and uses biodegradable materials and 3D printing technology to be as eco-friendly as possible.
"I just feel like it's so important because the fashion industry is so wasteful and it causes so much pollution," Demi said. "So I really wanted to explore 3D printing because it's so sustainable and it's biodegradable. [My collection has] timeless pieces that you can buy and re-wear."
Watch this space, because the Irish designer is aiming high in her five-year plan. She aims to move to New York and get the lay of the land by working in a fashion house before establishing her own brand. Shoot for the stars, Demi!
* This article was originally published on Evoke.ie.