Finding really great vintage pieces that are the real deal but aren’t a total rip off is a rare and ellusive thing.
Nothing beats finding a true one-of-a-kind vintage piece, but as the vintage clothing phenomenon has become more popular and mainstream (yes, we did just use that word) prices have also become hugely inflated and many shops are now charging crazy money for items, which aren’t even that old or rare.
And, although charity shops can be a treasure trove for top notch second hand clothing, they sometimes can fall a bit short of the mark, especially if you’re looking for genuine vintage.
Our top tip to follow when buying vintage? Have an open mind but stay true to your own personal style and don’t buy something if you know you wont wear it. That 1920s sequinned number might look amazing in the shop, but if it ends up gathering mothballs in the back of your wardrobe for years to come, you’ll not only regret the purchase – you’ll have prevented someone else getting actual enjoyment out of it in the process!
Thankfully, it is possible to find affordable vintage without resorting to Ebay or Etsey and amazing vintage shops are cropping up all over the country. The trick is knowing which ones are good and which are are slightly less so. Here we reveal our top of the shops…
Fancy getting your hands on vintage Dior?
Shutterbug, Kilkenny:
This is possibly one of our favourite shops ever! If you’re looking for vintage leather and showstopping sequinned numbers that don’t cost the earth, then Shutterbug is a must. Plus, if you cant make it to their store in Kilkenny, you can buy straight from their Facebook page or wait for their next Kilo sale which happens every bank holiday weekend at a different destination.
http://www.facebook.com/shutterbugshop
Lulus Vintage, Monkstown, Co. Dublin:
This little gem on Dublin’s southside houses the best of vintage French couture, so if you’re desperate for a Louis Vuitton bag or 1950s Dior jacket look no further. Naturally, the items are pricey but just think of all the money you’ll have saved on a plane ticket to Paris!
http://www.facebook.com/LuluVintageStoreDublin
Miss Daisy Blue, Co. Cork:
Vintage dresses are big business for brides so if you’re looking for a dress with an extra special feel, a trip to Miss Daisy Blue on Patrick Street in Cork’s ciry centre is essential. From pretty prom styles to long, lace numbers, the selection is vast and each unique dress is stunning. Plus, you’re guaranteed that nobody (from this century anyway) will have the same dress as you!
http://www.facebook.com/missdaisyblue
The Harlequin, Dublin 2:
A Dublin institution, The Harlequin on Castle Market has been a vintage hub for discerning Dublin shoppers for decades and over the years the shop has kept its prices low, stock to a high quality and encourages customers to have a good ol rummge through the rails. Definitely somewhere to while away an afternoon…
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Harlequin/502069575532?fref=ts
