Quick Read
- Irish-born fashion designer Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra was found dead on a yacht in Montauk on Tuesday.
- Authorities are investigating the cause of her death, with preliminary findings inconclusive.
- Nolan-O’Slatarra was the founder of East x East, a sustainable resort wear brand.
- Her death has left the fashion community and her loved ones in shock.
The death of 33-year-old Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra, an Irish-born fashion designer and founder of the sustainable fashion brand East x East, has sent shockwaves through the Montauk and broader fashion communities. Her body was discovered early Tuesday morning aboard a yacht docked at the Montauk Yacht Club, a luxury destination in the Hamptons, New York. The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, and authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause.
A Sudden and Mysterious Death
According to the Suffolk County Police Department, officers received a 911 call shortly after midnight on Tuesday, reporting an unconscious woman on a boat. When first responders arrived at the scene, Good Samaritans were already attempting CPR. Despite their efforts and those of emergency personnel, Nolan-O’Slatarra was pronounced dead at the scene. A preliminary investigation and subsequent medical examination have yet to provide conclusive answers about the cause of death. An autopsy conducted by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office did not show signs of violence, but further examination is pending.
Local residents have reported hearing screams from the docks late Monday night, although police have not confirmed this detail. The homicide detective squad is leading the investigation, urging anyone with information to come forward. In a statement, the Montauk Yacht Club expressed their sadness and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement.
A Rising Star in Fashion
Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra was more than just a designer; she was a visionary who sought to redefine resort wear through sustainability. Born and raised in Carlow, Ireland, Nolan-O’Slatarra studied commerce at University College Dublin and earned a master’s degree in digital marketing from Smurfit Business School. In 2015, she moved to the United States to pursue her dreams, eventually founding East x East, a brand specializing in eco-friendly sunglasses, swimwear, and resort wear.
Her brand, which she described as “built in the city, made for the sun,” gained a loyal following for its stylish yet sustainable ethos. Just weeks before her untimely death, Nolan-O’Slatarra celebrated the opening of a pop-up shop at Gurney’s Montauk Resort and Seawater Spa, only six miles from the Montauk Yacht Club. She shared her excitement on TikTok, where she documented her entrepreneurial journey and connected with her audience.
In addition to her work in fashion, Nolan-O’Slatarra served as the director of operations for K IV Capital Management in New York, showcasing her versatility and ambition.
A Life Remembered
Friends, family, and colleagues have been left devastated by Nolan-O’Slatarra’s sudden passing. Her business partner, Dylan Grace, paid a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, recalling their shared dreams and accomplishments. “We dreamed big together, we laughed harder than anyone could understand, and built so much from nothing,” Grace wrote. “I’m truly blessed and grateful to have had you in my life. Love you so much, fly high girl.”
Montauk residents and those who knew Nolan-O’Slatarra described her as a kind and vibrant individual, always radiating positivity and energy. Her legacy as a designer and entrepreneur will undoubtedly live on, inspiring others to pursue their passions with the same determination and heart.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the events leading up to Nolan-O’Slatarra’s death. The Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting further tests, and the police are urging witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact them. While no foul play has been confirmed, the community remains on edge, awaiting answers.
Montauk, a popular destination for summer visitors, including young Irish students, is no stranger to hosting vibrant and ambitious individuals like Nolan-O’Slatarra. Her death serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
As the fashion world mourns the loss of one of its rising stars, the hope remains that the ongoing investigation will provide clarity and closure for her loved ones and the community she touched.