There’s an insane amount of stuff in this little basement–housewares, jewelry, hats, mens, womens, you name it. It’s a really fun place to have a nose around. Check it out if you’re in town (from 1pm-6pm only). I found a really cute summer dress that fits for now and will fit even better post-baby, and a cute tiny crossover bag inspired by Jess’s new Coach bag on WIW, but much much cheaper. Here’s a sneak peak…

I didn’t even know you could make undies. If you’re going too, let me know! I’m looking forward to meeting other lovely Dublin ladies.

My first fashion sketch!

On Saturday I attended the fabulous Crafternoon Tea hosted by Re-Dress, Ireland’s ethical fashion extraordinaires. The day brought together 25 20-something gals with an interest in fashion and DIY. I’ve never had a more delightful Saturday!

We started off the day learning fashion sketching, then moved on to drafting patterns and how to fit patterns to size. After a yummy lunch provided by the Smock Alley Cafe we learned basic stitches and how to upcycle our old tired clothes.

For me, the day gave me a huge confidence boost in my sewing and style abilities. So watch out for my attempts at DIY fashion! I’ve already taken out all the stitches in one of my husband’s shirts in an attempt to turn it into a skirt (he’s thrilled!)

Thanks Re-Dress! Looking forward to more events Crafternoon Teas!

American Apparel, the LA based retailers with a penchant for provocative advertising, will open the doors of its first Irish store in March. The 114 Grafton Street location, formerly a TSB Bank, will now house stocks of jersey knit basics that have made the brand an international icon.

North of the Liffey, the uber-trendy River Island will open a fifth Dublin store in the revamped Ilac Centre. A mere kilometre from the Grafton Street superstore, this will become the largest single retailer on Henry Street, booting out several small shops along the way. There’s no word yet on when the new superstore will open.

This isn’t high fashion. It’s a dusty, cold carpark in the middle of Dublin City Centre. What it lacks in glamour, the Toejam Carboot Sale more than makes up in character—something long absent from the typical Irish High Street.

It’s nestled in the back lot of the Bernard Shaw Pub—home to Dublin’s own unique brand of hipsters and the creative class. Candles and car headlights barely illuminate the stands while a DJ spins. Shoppers mingle in clusters around the stalls, knocking back pints of lager and glasses of Buckfast. I feel a bit little like an outsider, but am on a mission so I start making the rounds.

First up, I spot a red wool pencil skirt. A good way to size skirts is to wrap the waist band around your neck. I try this, and it should fit. I waver a bit, and then remember that my ample hips just aren’t meant for the pencil skirts.

Another stall specializes in vintage children’s clothing. I briefly consider stocking up on pieces for my inevitable child, but superstitions get the better of me. This is the future for my kids—parading around in brightly coloured tennis sweaters or Scandinavian inspired cardigans and plaid jumpers.

I’m about to give up hope for when a spotlight suddenly shines appears above a circular laundry line displaying a hodgepodge of thrifted goods. And there it is.

A sophisticated 1950’s style fitted cream sweater with elbow length sleeves, and delicate black pattern around all the edges is everything that I’ve been looking for. It is vintage (meaning it was conceived before MTV), but could easily fit into a modern wardrobe. Before becoming too attached, I quickly run through a checklist.

Is it my size? Check.

Any stains? All clear.

Is it moth bitten? Nope.

My imagination runs wild with possibilities for styling it. I can see myself pairing it with a short black tulip skirt, black tights and two-toned Mary Janes. Or tucking it into wide leg jeans, toped with a caramel leather bomber jacket and librarian spectacles. This sweater has possibilities and is so perfectly me.

I quickly pull it off the line, pay my €10 and head back through the pub, giving a knowing nod to my fellow vintage hounds as they stroll in. With this one piece, I finally feel part of an illusive club of Dublin fashionistas.

Vintage shopping is hard, especially in a new city. It takes endurance and imagination. Now that I’ve had my taste, I know there must be more treasures to find in this old city and I’ll leave no cobble unturned until I’ve found them all.

Toejam Carboot Sale returns to the Bernard Shaw Pub on Valentine’s Day from 1pm-6pm. Shopping by daylight highly recommended.