Take it Slow: A Guide to Sustainable Shopping in Galway
By Erin Grant
Giving second-hand clothing a new life is one of my greatest joys; it’s fun to imagine the life it may have lived before I made it my own. Luckily, it has never been easier to find fantastic pre-loved pieces, as makers and sellers across Galway embrace the value and charm of mindful shopping, putting the West of Ireland at the forefront of slow, sustainable choices.
Hidden treasures: Galway’s vintage jewellery treasure hunter
Gemology student Anaïs Rizzo owns online vintage jewellery store Lola Bear Vintage. Fellow magpies will find Edwardian-era brooches, Italian gold bracelets and antique engagement rings to add to their ‘to covet’ list. All pieces have been repaired, cleaned by a jeweller and come delivered in ready-to-wear condition.
“A token of love that had survived two world wars, it somehow found its way to me, ready to start its new story.”
“A particularly special piece that I sold last year was a turquoise ring, in 18ct gold, inscribed with ‘Dec. 1901’,” recalls Anaïs. “Beside it was a woman’s name, now lost to time. Perhaps a Christmas gift from a husband to his beloved wife? It was a very exciting find for me. A token of love that had survived two world wars, it somehow found its way to me, ready to start its new story!”
Giving clothes a new lease of life at Public Romance
In Galway City, our love affair with Public Romance continues. Satisfying purveyors of everything from upstyled Ralph Lauren pieces to vintage denim jackets and 1990s bucket hats, the store recently celebrated 15 years in business. “Our planet needs more than just conservation; we need to be actively participating in pillars of sustainability,” says owner Sinead Coughlan. “We offer a more sustainable alternative by giving clothes a new lease of life.”
Luxury meets sustainability: The Sustainable Studio
The Sustainable Studio, curated by style-savvy Gayle Poppers, offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality designer handbags and goods. Stocking luxury labels like Gucci and Alexander McQueen, they also feature sustainable recycled gold jewellery from the eco-conscious French label Gisel B, all available for purchase through their online store.
New beginnings: sustainable staples from Galway’s fashion hubs
When buying new, invest in high quality sustainable staples that will last. Galway City's bustling Middle Street is home to Kindf_olk, which boasts a scandi aesthetic and the most on-trend sustainable buys. Stocking labels including Carahart, Veja and Rains (their raincoat being my recommended buy for living in the west).
Back at the Westend you’ll find Aplomb, who started out selling men’s clothing and have since added slow-fashion ‘fits for everyone.
Beyond the city: unearthing second-hand treasures in Gort and Clarinbridge
Across the city and county, we are blessed with many great charity shops. In the village of Gort, Agata Prinii invites everyone into her wonderland of pre-loved clothing, children’s toys, books and vintage finds at Community Aid Thrift Gort. This valued space focuses on remaining inclusive and affordable – there are often free items available to good homes.
If curiosities are your gem, make for Clarinbridge Antiques where you’ll find trinkets, furniture, and porcelain tucked inside a beautiful stone building with doorways leading you through decades of history (on my last visit, I spied some antique Victorian-era dog statues, which I’m keeping my eye on).
Embrace sustainable fashion in Clifden
If you’re looking for more pieces from leading sustainable brands, such as gorgeous Seasalt staples and sustainable sportswear from Instagram favourite Girlfriend Collective, a day in Clifden to see the wonders of Ohh! by Gum makes for a perfect road trip spot.
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