AS A RULE of thumb the rag trade considers vintage clothing to date from between the 1920s to 1980s. Anything produced before the 1920s is considered antique or period. Clothing dating back only over the past 15-20 years is simply referred to as second-hand. Vintage shops in and around Dublin include:
A Store is Born
Expect vintage hats, bags, dresses, evening and occasion wear as well as scarves and lots of lovely cashmere cardigans and tops. Marie Little gets her stock from dealers worldwide. There are dresses to suit all pockets. Clothes can also be rented out for a week at a third of the sale price. They are always looking for good pieces they can sell on, taking 40 per cent commission on the sale price. 34 Clarendon Street, Dublin 2. Open Sat 11am-6pm and by appointment, also Dec 12th-24th (01-6795866)
Harlequin
This vintage and repro store stocks a wide range of men’s and women’s second-hand, repro and vintage clothing including bags, belts, shoes, trousers, skirts, leather jackets, dress suits and dresses. They also stock jewellery and accessories. Prices range from €5 to €300. 13 Castle Market, Dublin 2. Open Mon-Fri 11am-6pm, Sat 10.30am-6pm and Sun 1.30-5pm (01-6710202)
Jenny Vander
This mother of all period clothing and accessories stores has an eclectic mix of party, evening and formal wear as well as fine designer jewellery and accessories such as beautiful beaded evening bags. It also has earlier period wear such as Victoriana and Edwardian blouses and 1930s silk slips. Upstairs is occupied by an alteration business which is separate but complimentary to the shop. 50 Drury Street, Dublin 2. Open Mon-Wed Fri 10am-5.30pm, Thurs Sat 10am-6.30pm (01-6770406)
Lucy’s Lounge
An Aladdin’s cave of wild and wonderful things stocking second-hand, handmade and vintage women’s and men’s wear as well as art and bric-a-brac. You could end up buying all sorts if you’re not careful, but if you don’t fancy buying something, you can just stay and chat to the charming Dee, who is always dressed up. Sé Sí Basement, 11 Fownes Street, Temple Bar. Open Mon-Sat 1-6pm, Sun 3-6pm. See lucyslounge-dee.blogspot.com
Monto
Mad mix of second-hand, handmade and vintage clothes for both guys and girls. Owner Marian will also find pieces on request or rent out garments in the store for a fraction of the price. It’s beside Cine World, Parnell Street. Open Mon-Sat noon-6.30pm. See www.monto-dash.com
Wild Child
Recently moved into Georges Street Arcade from Temple Bar. Its new premises is bright and airy and the new stock is good quality and affordable, ranging from €5 to €75 for belts, bags, hats, blouses, skirts, trousers, leather jackets and coats. It is laid out well and the staff are helpful and friendly. Stocking more casual wear than evening, it is a great place to get pieces for your day wardrobe. 24 Georges Street Arcade. Open Mon-Sun 10am-6pm. (01- 6759933)
The internet
Be sure to check the returns policy and take detailed measurements of your bust, waist and hips. Sites worth checking out include:
www.hayworthvintage.com; www.vintageclothing.ie; www.perkuponline.com; www.hatfeathersvintage.com and www.thefrock.com (high-end vintage for high prices).