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By
CATRIONA
GRAY
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ooking for a unique outfit? Forget the high street: vintage clothing shops, charity shops and car boot sales are where it's at. They're packed with fantastic clothing at a fraction of the price. If you've got a couple of hours to spare, have a browse in the many charity shops on Camden Street or Capel Street, or better yet, the suburban one;; that aren't regularly raided by other citydwelling bargain-hunters. In car boot sales, you'll find quirky pieces by young designers, often at less than their retail price, as well as the expected selection of second-hand clothes. Vintage clothing shops have a higher quality of stock than charity shops, and their wares have already been sorted through. Unfortunately, prices are hiked up accordingly, but at least what you buy will be absolutely unique. Roll your sleeves up and get imaginative!
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CHARITY SHOP ENABLE IRELAND As far as charity shops go, the Enable Ireland shops on Georges Street and Camden Street win hands down for fabulous finds. This black and gold dress was €5, although, admittedly, it was actually the lower part of a skirt-and-top combo. Charity shopping requires an open mind - if a skirt looks better as a dress, then go for it. The black and gold elasticated belt and the leather bag came from the Camden Street branch, and cost €2.50 each. You'll often find leather bags at ridiculously cheap prices there, so keep an eye out. Ditto with shoes; these jewelled pumps were just €3. It's also worth having a look in Vincent's on Aungier Street - they recently had a stash of John Rocha clothing come in, and I picked up a green silk dress for just €8. Unit 8, South Great Georges Street, Dublin 2. 478 2763; 28 Lower Camden Street, Dublin 2. 478 0647; 3 Whitefriars, Aungier Street, Dublin 2. 4789672. enableireland.ie, svp.ie
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"Although. car boot
sales are probably the hardest place to track down a vintage outfi0theyrebyfar the most entertaining experience and always worth a punt."
VINTAGE SHOP THE HARLEQUIN
CAR BOOT SALE THE BERNARD SHAW
Along with Wild Child, this is one of the best vintage shops in Dublin - there are always gems to be found. But be warned: if you fall in love with a piece, act quickly. A beautiful navy woollen jumper embroidered with pink roses was snapped up while I was dithering ... The blue, red and white vintage cardigan with wooden buttons was a bargain at €35. Harlequin has a brilliant selection of casual and smart leather bags, such as the snakeskin box bag in the photograph, which was selling for €45. Upstairs, there's a fantastic selection of vintage tshirts, many from the 1970s. Don't be afraid to raid the men's department, especially if you're looking for a pair of oversized jeans. I cut a pair of well-worn Levi 501s into hotpants recently - paired with plimsolls and a white vest, it's a much more authentic way to work the 80s look than buying something from the high street.
With cars and stalls offering you everything from clothes to falafel, and a live DJ, the monthly car boot sale at the Bernard Shaw is one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a Saturday afternoon. It's also a brilliant opportunity to pick up unique pieces by young designers. This black dress, made by NCAD student Rebecca Gray, was a bargain at €IO. Also look out for Aine Kilbride's handmade hearts, which she sells at her accessories stall along with a selection of secondhand clothes. Each heart has a different slogan - somehow I ended up with one . emblazoned with 'Enda Kenny'. You can use the bathrooms as changing rooms, which gives you a bit more privacy. Although car boot sales are probably the hardest place to track down a vintage outfit, they're by far the most entertaining and always worth a punt.
13 Castle Market, Dublin 2. 6710202
11-12 South Richmond Street, Porto bello, Dublin 2. 085712 8342, bodytonicmusic.com
BEST OF THE REST (FOR HER) JENNY VANDER Dreamy frocks and
gorgeous costume jewellery. Lovely staff and a tailor on site for alterations. 50 Drury Street, Dublin 2. 6770406 A STORE IS BORN Only open on Saturdays. Intimidating staff, but some beautiful cashmere jumpers and other highquality antique items. 34 Clarendon Street, Dublin 2. 2857627 WILD CHILD Amazing bargains in vintage dresses and slips; particularly good for larger sizes. 8 CTOWStreet, Dublin 2.6337748 URBAN OUTFITTERS Some fun jumpers and dresses, but very expensive. Go here for the accessories - great shoes and bags. 4 Cecilia Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2. 670 6202, urbanoutfitters. co.uk VINTAIiECLOTHINIi.lE Enchanted vintage clothing shop is in Sligo, but shipping within Ireland is free. You'll find gorgeous special-occasion wear from the 1920s to the 1960s on the easy-touse website, and the lovely Victoria will answer any questions you might have. 071 914 6680