The Harlequin, Catle Market (between Drury Street and South William Street)
This shop’s collection of bags blew me away; I’ve never seen so many could-be-designers at such low prices all in one place. Take an hour or so to have a rummage and you’ll definitely come out with some retro-crazy-cool bargains.
Wild Child, Crow Street, Temple Bar
At first glance, there may not be a lot of eye-catching pieces in this vintage store, but glance through the racks, and have a word with the salesgirl, and she may pull out a must-have you never knew you needed, like this ruffled white blouse with gold button detail and broach on the neck. Or she may just inform you of some amazing catsuits which will be in next week.
George’s Street Arcade
Honourable mentions must go to Om Diva (their hangers, quilts, cushion covers, shoes and dresses), Zeroe (patterned hoodies, haruko girls-style little dresses, and indulgent bags), as well as Retro; even though they wouldn’t let us take photos, we love the red corset/tutu dress currently in the window.
Jenny Vanders, Drury Street
As I was perusing the jewellery selection in this select boutique, a woman entered and announced
to the proprietor “I need something fabulous.” She had come to the right place. If you are still afloat in the current credit crunch, or are going to put a little something on your credit card, pop in and be seduced by luxurious fabrics and old-school glamour.
Lara, Dame Lane
OK, so this is not a shop for the faint-hearted; it’s obviously expensive, and its clear they’re not marketed at students, but if you’re looking for an exclusive pair of Sass &Bide or DVB jeans, or a full length and fabulous ballgown, take a friend and have a browse in this lavish minimalist boutique.
Ad Hoc, Crown Alley, Temple Bar
Not for everyone’s taste, this shop has every fluorescent accessory, every colour of eyelashes
and every punk belt and bag (wear it with that tartan dress for an edge on everyone else) that every anti-fashion girl could need. I guarantee you will fall in love with at least one thing in this shop.
