Paul Costelloe will be hoping to repackage his reputation with the first class accolade from An Post, afforded only to the great and the good.

Despite his notorious remarks that women in his native Ireland "wouldn't know style if it tottered up to them on 10-inch heels", the London-based tailor has attributed his recognition to the country's legacy of couture.

"As an Irishman, having your name on a stamp is one of the greatest honours to be bestowed on anyone," he said.

"This stamp series reflects the future of a new Ireland invoking its heritage of fashion flair and its new youthful energy."

The Dubliner, whose high-profile clients once included Diana, Princess of Wales, joins six leading lights in the rag trade immortalised in the postage stamps for pushing the envelop in clothes design.

Louise Kennedy, Lainey Keogh, Orla Kiely, John Rocha and Philip Treacy will also feature in the specially-commissioned series designed by Irish graphic artist Ger Garland.

An Post said the award-winning couturiers were selected because they have their own label and a successful Irish and international career.

Touted as essential summer accessories for the literate fashionista, the stamps - priced at 55 cent and at 82 cent - will bring the "instant impression of style and glamour" to letters, according to the State-owned mail service.

They feature current or recent work from each designer.