Phoenix V, the creation of Liza Brennan is where the city’s best-dressed go when the invitation reads “something special.”
Known for its striking occasion wear, elegant wedding looks, and its ability to make any woman feel effortlessly confident, Phoenix V has earned its place as one of Ireland’s most-loved style destinations.
For over a decade, it has been at the heart of Cork’s fashion scene, adored by those who appreciate elegant design, exceptional quality, and that touch of individuality. Phoenix V isn’t just loved by Cork’s most stylish though, fashion lovers travel from all over Ireland to visit. Celia Holman Lee, often hailed as the country’s matriarch of style, counts herself a fan, her timeless grace perfectly mirroring the boutique’s spirit.
But for Liza, this story isn’t just about fashion, it’s about following her passion, taking risks, and living a creative legacy that runs through three generations of women in her family, as she explained.
“My passion for fashion started early,” Liza recalls. “As a child, I loved helping my mother pick out outfits. It fascinated me how clothing could transform a person’s confidence and reflect their individuality. Even from a young age I could see the power in what you choose to wear”
That early fascination grew as her mother opened her own boutique in Kerry. My love of style sparked early in my life when I would help my mother in picking out outfits. This experience revealed to me the powerful way clothing can reflect one’s individuality. Eventually, my mother opened her own boutique in Kenmare, and I cherished our little trips there, where I’d marvel at the stunning designs all around me.
It’s clear that entrepreneurial spirit runs in the family. “My mum has always been my biggest inspiration,” she says. “When I told her I wanted to open my own boutique, she was incredibly supportive, as she always has been, guiding me every step of my journey.”
Before opening Phoenix V, Liza was working in EY. “Fashion was my passion, but it started out as a hobby,” she explains. My journey to merging passion and career was a gradual process. Initially, I dedicated time to fashion outside of my day job. I was still working in EY when I opened PhoenixV. Over time, I realised that this passion brought me joy and fulfilment. So I started actively seeking opportunities to integrate it into my professional life.
“I would spend my evenings sketching designs or browsing fabrics after long days at work. Eventually, I realised that this was what truly made me happy.”
Eventually, through perseverance and a bit of risk-taking, I transitioned to a career that allows me to do what I love every day, and I have never looked back.
Taking that leap wasn’t without risk. “It was a gradual process, one shaped by perseverance, faith, and a lot of hard work,” she says. “But I’m so grateful that I took the step. Now, every day I get to do what I love, surrounded by creativity and beautiful design.”
Ask Liza how she’d describe Phoenix V and she doesn’t hesitate: “Dynamic, bold, and contemporary with a touch of edge.”
The boutique has become renowned for its distinctive aesthetic and bespoke designs. “At Phoenix V, we operate our own design house,” she explains. “Each piece is carefully crafted to reflect individuality. When creating special occasion wear, I want every client to feel like the best version of themselves.”
Her personal style mirrors that philosophy, which she describes as chic yet fearless. “I love the concept of fearless fashion,” she says. “It’s about dressing for yourself, expressing who you are, and not worrying about judgment. Fashion is a form of storytelling.”
When it comes to fashion icons, Liza looks both home and abroad. “Internationally, I admire Zendaya for her fearless approach, she can effortlessly move between high fashion and street style,” she says. “Here in Ireland, Ruth Negga always impresses me with her chic, contemporary elegance and vintage flair.”
Liza’s current favourite piece? “A tailored oversized blazer which instantly elevates any outfit and works for both casual and formal occasions.”
Fashion clearly runs deep in the Brennan family. “It’s lovely to see my daughters experimenting with their own styles,” Liza says. “They’re naturally curious and creative. I don’t want to push them into fashion, but if that’s where their hearts lead them, I’ll be delighted. It’s special to see that passion carry through the generations.”
Over the years, Liza’s relationship with fashion has evolved. “When I was younger, I’d often buy into trends, which were impulse purchases that didn’t really suit my personality,” she admits. “Now, I focus on timeless, high-quality pieces that I truly love as I’ve learned to prioritize quality and versatility over quantity. I’ve shifted towards a more minimalist approach, choosing timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched effortlessly.
When it comes to her own wardrobe, Liza believes in investing in craftsmanship and longevity. “The most expensive thing I’ve ever bought was a handcrafted designer handbag,” she says. “It wasn’t about the price tag, it was about the quality, the attention to detail, and the timelessness of the piece. It’s something I’ll cherish for years.”
That said, she knows a good bargain when she sees one too . “My best find was a Rick Owens leather jacket I stumbled across in a second-hand shop in Australia. It cost a fraction of what it would have in stores, and I still wear it all the time, it’s one of those rare pieces that gets better with age.”
And as for her advice for those with overflowing wardrobes but still “nothing to wear”?
“Start by curating your wardrobe, keep only what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Invest in fewer, better pieces. When you simplify, you rediscover your own style.”
As for what’s next for Phoenix V, Liza is excited about the future. “We’re always innovating and reimagining timeless classics. Our goal is to continue offering exceptional service and designs that inspire confidence and individuality.”
The team is already preparing for Spring/Summer 2026. “We’re curating our collection right now,” she reveals. “We don’t follow trends for the sake of it, instead, we help clients find colours and styles that suit them. Fashion should always start with the person, not the season.”
From her mother’s boutique in Kenmare to her own thriving store on Maylor Street, Liza Brennan has built more than just a business, she’s created a legacy of style, self-belief, and creativity that continues to inspire.
“Fashion has always been my way of expressing who I am,” she says. “It’s not just about what you wear, it’s about how it makes you feel. And when you love what you do, that confidence shines through in everything.”
For more see phoenixv.ie or follow on Instagram @phoenix_vire
