Looking to buy the perfect piece for the vintage lover in your life?
There really is nothing like nabbing a vintage find - imagining the story behind it, the made-to-last quality and most importantly, the knowledge that you'll never bump into someone wearing the same thing as you.
There are plenty of other benefits to second hand shopping - it helps to prevent clothes from being sent to landfill, reduces greenhouse gases and is usually far more ethical than a fast fashion haul (you'll find great sources for more info on sustainable shopping below - there's so much to learn!)
Over lockdown, so many Irish guys and gals discovered the thrill of online vintage shopping. There are loads of great Irish online vintage stores who do weekly drops that sell out in minutes - a sign that more of us than ever are opting for sustainable shopping.
Looking to make small, sustainable changes to your Christmas shopping list? Here's a list of some great Irish online vintage and second hand stores to get the ball rolling.
Spice Vintage
Spice's weekly drops are like Armageddon. They sell out in minutes so if you have your eye on something be tactical, be quick and be ready. Sneak peeks of what'll be available in each drop go up on the Spice Insta page in the days leading up to the drop. Consider that your window shopping of sorts, and get ready for the rush of your life once the stock is dropped.
Ripe Vintage
In a similar vein to Spice,
Ripe has regular drops which tend to sell out quickly. Expect colourful fleeces, 90s sweatshirts, the occasional gúna and a very impressive selection of vintage ski wear.
The Harlequin
This iconic Dublin store was a trailblazer of the Irish vintage scene. If, like myself your teenage years were spent wishing you were in an episode of Skins you'll definitely remember rummaging through the Castle Market store, searching for the perfect jacket or vintage sunnies. Sadly, the physical store closed its doors as a result of the pandemic, but you can still shop their amazing selection
online.
35 Vintage
These guys have a deadly in-person store in Kiltimagh, Mayo but you can also find some great bits on their
website whether you're after a funky fleece, a one-off hat or your dream piece of denim.
Lou's Lot
If you're on the hunt for a handbag or vintage designer piece, look no further than Lous Lot. Lou earned her stripes creating repurposed designer necklaces over lockdown, and now specialises in bags, as well as beautiful designer coats and clothing. Visit her at her store in George's Street Arcade, Dublin, or browse her gems
online.
Babydoll Vintage
If you're looking for a preloved fit for a special occasion, Babydoll Vintage have you covered. They've also got a great range of designer vintage and of course, the obligatory fleeces and sweats if that's what you're yearning for. Browse in person at their Stephen's Green shop or
online.
Tola Vintage
Tola are probably best known for their physical Dublin shop in Temple Bar, which was famously visited by Ariana Grande during her time in Ireland. But they also have a great online shop with regularly updated stock, which you can check out
HERE.
Nine Crows
In a similar vein to Tola, Nine Crows are best known for their physical stores and thrift shops in Dublin, but they're also extremely diligent when it comes to updating their Depop page with vintage gems. Find out more
HERE.
Inné Jewellery
Investing in real gold jewellery can be expensive business, and that's where Inné comes in. If you're looking for a special ring or necklace that'll last you a lifetime, Inné sources amazing preloved pieces at genuinely affordable prices, without compromising on quality at all. Owner Terri is passionate and knowledgable about vintage and preloved jewellery, and has even sourced engagement rings for customers. Keep an eye one Inné's Instagram for weekly solid gold drops.
Thriftify
Thriftify is a really unique business model, transferring charity shopping to the online sphere so those who love thrifting can enjoy it without having to leave the house. Whether it's books, bric-a-brac or a heavily reduced designer piece, you can find the perfect preloved present on the Thriftify
website while also contributing to a good cause.
Siopaella
Wicklow Street
Siopaella has been sourcing and reselling designer pieces since 2011 but reached a whole new audience over lockdown with owner Ella's Instagram lives, showcasing highly coveted designer bags usually in perfect condition, prime to be snatched up by an eager audience of "ninjas".
The Siopaella website continues to deliver when it comes to expertly authenticated designer bags as well as preloved high street pieces at great prices, all of which you can browse
right here.
Designer Exchange
Exchequer Street
Another great designer bag reseller, stocking many good-as-new pieces that'll save you money and allow you to feel significantly smug for taking a more sustainable approach to high-end shopping. From on-trend Prada and Louis Vuitton pieces to vintage, Jackie Kennedy-esque Gucci, this
website is definitely worth a browse if you're looking to invest in a designer handbag.
Did we miss out your favourite Irish vintage shop? Let us know and we'll add them to the list!
Header image via Instagram/Ripe Vintage/Spice Vintage
READ NEXT:
