Newly crowned Rose of Tralee Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh has humorously stated that U.S. President Donald Trump would not be her typical client, as she focuses on making wigs for those who genuinely need them, particularly those with alopecia.
The Westmeath Rose, who has publicly shared her experience with alopecia since age 15, made the remarks in an interview with the Irish Mail on Sunday. When asked about the possibility of styling Trump's hair, which recently sparked rumors of a hairpiece due to appearing thicker and lusher at a Las Vegas rally, Ní Choiligh replied, "He wouldn’t really be my clientele. I think I’m more focused on people who actually, like, you know, need them." She added with a laugh, "Well… I’m not saying he doesn’t need them, but I think I’d rather stay away from him altogether."
Ní Choiligh is currently learning the craft of wig making with the intention of opening her own business. She expressed a desire to create wigs for women who wear them, noting that it's often imperceptible. While she doesn't have specific celebrity clients in mind, she remains open to offers.
Beyond her professional aspirations, Ní Choiligh views crafts and fashion as integral components of a modern Irish revival, alongside the Irish language. She hopes her win as a "small town girl" demonstrates that success is not solely defined by climbing a corporate ladder.
Ní Choiligh, who works as a supervisor in a clothing shop and already owns her home, aims to challenge conventional notions of success for individuals in their twenties. She emphasized the importance of being comfortable with one's chosen path, even if it differs from societal expectations or the choices of peers who move to larger cities for career advancement.
She plans to invest time in wig making once she has a dedicated space in her home, though she acknowledges this venture may be temporarily placed on hold during her year as Rose of Tralee. She intends to continue her work at the clothing shop while embracing the opportunities that come with her new role.