Spanish style:During a recent visit to the posh seaside city of San Sebastian in Spain, I came across a newly-opened shop or "concept store" to rival the uber chic Colette in Paris in spirit, but without the French boutique's attitude and droves of fashion victims.
It's called Noventa Grados (Ninety Degrees) and although partially a hair salon, it is also a boutique, with an eclectic mix of everything from the most beautiful and innovative jewellery, shoes and clothing, to Scandinavian cosmetics, music and art, all well edited and selected with a fresh and discerning eye. The dressing rooms are furnished with curious objects such as modern steel versions of old hat stands, while bags and toys are displayed on the steps of a wide staircase. Haunted by hip young San Sebastians, it's right in the centre of the old city, on the Calle Mayor. A haircut, by the way, costs €34. www.noventa-grados.com
under wraps
Former Monica John buyer Clodagh Shorten opened her boutique Samui in Cork seven years ago, and keeps a keen eye out for new labels for her discerning clientele. Her latest find is young UK designer Daniel Blake, a former freelancer with MaxMara whose winter woollen coats are classic in spirit, but updated with shapely details that give them a modern look. This lovely grey wool riding coat with pleated front gives some idea of his style and comes with a handsome suede and leather belt shaped like a large leaf. Beautiful, but with a scary price tag: be prepared to fork out about €1,000 for it. Otherwise, prices are from €800 upwards. The coats are due in at the end of August.
In the bag
Among the cute items in Oxfam's Fair Trade sale are these little woven summer baskets with strong wooden handles made in Tanzania by women working in their homes to earn extra income. They cost just €15 and come in pale or dark raffia straw - perfect for a trip to the beach, weather permitting. From Oxfam outlets in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast. www.oxfamirelandshop.org.