Friends of Magee

Anna Sutcliffe wearing our Alice 1/4 Zip on Arranmore island off the coast of Donegal.

FRIENDS OF MAGEE 1866

Introducing the next spotlight in our Friends of Magee 1866 series, where we celebrate people who have crossed our paths over the years. Like any meaningful relationship, the strongest are nurtured over time, and we’re delighted to present Anna Sutcliffe, Island Development Officer for Mayo & Donegal, whose passion for community and place reflects so much of what we stand for. We spoke with Anna about friendship, Donegal, her work across the islands, and her favourite knitwear pieces from our SS26 collection.

What does friendship mean to you?

Friendship, or cairdeas in Irish, is something that grows quietly over time. It’s found in shared silences as much as moments of joy, in conversation, in knowing looks, and in small acts of kindness. It’s about showing up for one another, again and again, without question.

Friendships come in many forms and at different times in your life, each one shaping you in its own way. They should be cherished and minded, because the strongest ones bring a sense of ease and belonging that stays with you. The best friendships don’t need explaining; they’re simply there.

Thoughts on the piece you are wearing?

I love my Alice quarter-zip, it’s such a timeless piece and perfect for layering, which is essential to my wardrobe! When I’m out on the islands, the weather can change in a moment; they seem to have their own micro-climates, so you’re never quite sure what the day will bring and layering is essential! I know this piece will be well used and travelled! The subtle flecks of blues and browns running through it make it incredibly easy to pair, and it feels both practical and timeless.

“I love my Alice quarter-zip, it’s such a timeless piece and perfect for layering, which is essential to my wardrobe!”

My pashmina has been a real lifesaver, particularly on my recent visit to Arranmore Island. The soft shades of camel, grey, and beige remind me of the colours of the beach and that calm, restorative feeling of being by the sea. Whether I’m at home on Achill or visiting one of the other islands, that sense of ease comes back to me the moment I put it on. It’s beautifully soft, and I know it’s something I’ll treasure for years to come.

Where did you learn your craft?

My craft has been shaped by formal learning, invaluable work experience, and my work with the offshore islands and the people who live there. Working closely with island communities taught me resilience and a strong work ethic, but also the importance of caring for one another. There’s a deep respect for heritage in island life - knowledge is passed on, traditions are held onto, and nothing is wasted. Those values continue to guide how I work and what I create. My design work is deeply inspired by Achill Island and my travels between the islands.

What’s the best thing about working with Magee 1866?

It was during childhood holidays in Annagry that my grá for the Irish language and tweed first took hold. I loved attending Irish-speaking schools in Dublin, and later, when I worked in fashion buying, tweed was always a constant in my wardrobe. Those early influences stayed with me, shaping a deep appreciation for Irish-made materials and the stories woven into it, which is something my family and friends have long known about me.

“As a fifth-generation company, Magee continues to evolve while remaining rooted in where it comes from, honouring its heritage with quiet confidence.”

Working with Magee 1866 feels like a continuation of that story and as cliché as it sounds, a dream come true. There’s a profound respect for craft and quality that runs through the brand to this day. As a fifth-generation company, Magee continues to evolve while remaining rooted in where it comes from, honouring its heritage with quiet confidence. Just as importantly, every visit to their stores I’ve made has been met with such warmth, the staff are always so welcoming and generous with their time, which makes the experience feel personal and genuine.

How will you warm up your February?

February has always felt like a turning point, from winter to spring, darkness to light, and cold to warmth. We celebrate Imbolc at the beginning of the month, marking the shift towards longer evenings and brighter days. It’s a practical time for me, it’s a chance to slow down, reset, and prepare for the busier months ahead. I spend February planning my island travels for the year, getting outdoors when I can, and noticing the small signs of change in the landscape. There’s a quiet sense of renewal in the month, a feeling that things are beginning to move again.

Why does the west of Ireland appeal?

The west of Ireland has a calmness and ruggedness that’s hard to put into words. There’s a strong sense of place and belonging, shaped by the land, the weather, and the people, that feels grounding and real. The islands are a huge part of that pull for me. I love travelling to them through my work, moving between places where life is closely tied to the sea, the seasons, and the language.

After moving west from Dublin, I realised I felt more at home here than anywhere else. I’ve fallen deeply in love with life in the west and on Achill Island, its changing light, its pace, and the contrast it offers to city life. Each island has its own rhythm and character, and visiting them, whether for work or in quieter moments, always brings perspective. Across the west, there’s a deep connection to craft, language, and tradition, where heritage isn’t preserved for show but lived every day. That sense of resilience, openness, and belonging continues to inspire me and is something I’m constantly drawn back to.