Retail is arguably one of humanity’s greatest inventions. And over 150,000 years, we think it’s safe to say that retail in Dublin is far superior to anywhere else. In this guide, we hope to quash any fears or worries about shopping that you may have, as well as point out some of Dublin’s best retail venues, and fear not, because there is no shortage of niche or obscure shops, so we know there will be one for you.
Grafton District Retail:
The Grafton District is arguably the greatest place in town for window shopping. Almost every store you walk by will have merchandise in the window waiting for someone to take it home. So if you’re a visual buyer looking for your next purchase, there isn’t a better place than the Grafton district. Clothes, jewellery, shoes, teddy bears – If any of those tickle your fancy, skip down to Grafton.
Dune London:
Dune is obsessed with getting you the best shoes you can have, and that obsession shows. They have incredible customer service, and each employee can guide you to the shoe that is right for you, so if it’s time for an upgrade in footwear, Dune is for you!
United Colours of Benetton:
Located at the top of Grafton Street, United Colours of Benetton has a huge selection of clothes for you to choose from, no matter your style. United Colours of Benetton has the clothes to make your perfect outfit.
The LEGO Store:
LEGO needs no introduction; this world-renowned toy company has brought happiness and memories to kids, adults, and now Grafton Street. Whether you have 1,000 LEGO sets or not even 1, we recommend you take a peek at this shop’s window eye candy.
Reiss:
Reiss has been a dedicated supplier in the fashion game since 1971, bringing high-quality and high-fashion clothes to the worldwide market. Window shopping and Reiss go hand-in-hand as their shop on Grafton Street has a beautiful selection on display.
Hugo Boss:
Hugo Boss has an exceptional collection to browse of luxury clothes on display in their Grafton Street shop, so who knows, maybe something in their window is for you. You’ll never know if you don’t check!
Aran Sweater Market:
This shop is not just for the timeless Aran sweater (Unless that’s what you’re looking for), but is also home to many different hats, caps, ponchos, scarves and even clothes for your pets. Whatever your needs or wants may be, Aran Sweater Market probably has it in their windows.
Pandora:
“Affordable” and “Luxury” are usually not two words used in the same sentence, but Pandora has managed to pull it off. Pandora offers high-quality jewellery for all occasions, all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re looking for a gift for someone special or just want to spruce up your look, Pandora can hook you up.
Brereton:
John Brereton Jewellers puts as much intricacy and dedication into their jewellery as they possibly can. They have been in the jewellery business since 1916 and have been selling some of the best jewellery around since that time.
Foot Locker:
Everyone loves runners, whether it be for their comfort or how they look, but no one loves runners as much as Foot Locker. They have spent the last 30 years in the running/sneaker business, and boy oh boy, do they know it like the back of their hands. No matter what kind of runner you may be looking for, Foot Locker is sure to have it or at least something like it.
Massimo Dutti:
While Massimo Dutti may have the look and feel of a luxury or even designer brand, their prices will make sure you don’t have to break the bank to get your hands on their clothing.
Jigsaw:
Jigsaw creates its clothes on its foundation. Creativity, Truth and Individuality, and they do a mighty good job at it too, each piece of clothing is tailored to you, the consumer, with extensive care and thought.
Zara:
Zara is an icon in the fashion industry. If your wardrobe is feeling a little empty, then Zara will be more than happy to fix it.
Tribe:
Tribes’ ethos is creating a feeling of belonging and community, and we think they have nailed it. Not only is the atmosphere fantastic, but their clothes are nothing to sleep on either, skater or not, tribe has the clothes for you.
Brown Thomas:
The crème de la crème of department stores, Brown Thomas offers the most luxurious in clothing, cosmetics and homeware. This is where Bobbi Brown and Chanel nestle side by side amongst Tiffany’s and Louis Vuitton.
Lush:
Lush is the only shop capable of mind control. When you stand outside it, the aroma almost pulls you in, it’s too good! For any and all skincare, soap and hair care needs, Lush is there for you.
Tower Records:
Tower Records sells exactly what you think, records, but they also sell much more than that. They also sell a wide range of CDs, DVD’s and collectable items/memorabilia of a plethora of artists, old and new.
Magee 1866:
Magee 1866 is a fifth-generation tailor that has been passing down its tricks and tips, all this generational knowledge means they are the ideal place to go for all things tailoring. Whether you want a new suit, shirt, tweed cap or pyjamas, Magee is an endless well of fashion choices.
Colourful Retailers in Dublin:
If you’ve ever wondered if any shops exude summertime, we have the list for you. These shops just can’t help but be summery, and we are here for it!
It’s hard to miss OM Diva on Drury Street, their shop window is always so vibrant and welcoming, and the inside of the shop is no different. They have a dedicated and hard-working staff who are sure to know where to get all the vintage clothes you could want. The perfect spot for window shopping in Dublin.
You can tell that a lot of thought and effort went into the exterior of Jenny Vander, each piece of jewellery and each dress is laid out in a very satisfactory and pleasing way.
Tola Vintage has an extensive collection of premium clothes that can be tailored to anyone, but if you aren’t sure about them yet, just take a look at their window to put your mind at ease; the style and feel of the whole shop is encapsulated perfectly in their window.
There’s no better word to describe Thirty-Five than vibrant, both inside and out, the look and feel of the shop is that of happiness, workers, customers and passers-by will all be enticed by the warm atmosphere.
If you look at the image of the exterior of Oliver Bonas, you will see why they have been included in this list. Not only is the outside hard to miss, but it’s downright impossible not to see something you will want to buy.
Retailers with a focus on sustainability:
If you are looking for a more eco-friendly shopping experience, then we suggest you take a look at some of these next options!
Panerai:
Sustainability is key at Panerai. Not only are all of its employees capable of picking out a perfect watch with great customer service, but Panerai also puts a high degree of effort into making sure each watch is made with reusable and recyclable materials while maintaining its sleek and signature look and feel.
Patagonia:
Patagonia are members of a group by the name of 1% for the Planet, which means that 1% of a company’s annual profits are donated to non-profit organisations that are trying to reduce the negative impact we have on the planet.
Jack & Jones:
Jack & Jones don’t play around when it comes to giving the next generation a better world, they have a target for reducing how many of their resources are going to be sustainable. They have strict rules for their manufacturing’s sustainability and making sure each worker is given fair compensation.
Helena Malone Goldsmith:
Straight from the owner, Helena Malone Goldsmith, always has recycling and reusing at heart. “I use recycled silver, gold, and platinum metal and ethically sourced precious stones and pearls. I recycle my own metal and can remelt, repair and relove yours too. ”
Levi’s:
This iconic fashionwear brand is very aware of the negative impacts that the fashion market has on the climate, so they have been working tirelessly to right the wrongs of their predecessors and make sure that all of their clothes are made with as little damage to the Earth as they can.
Jacadi:
Jacadi has some key factors that they deem crucial to the sustainability of their clothes, these factors include using organic cotton, using Repreve Fiber, being conscious of and adhering to animal welfare laws, and water-saving denim. All of these factors mean you know your kids’ clothes will lead to them having a better future.
Designer Exchange:
Designer exchange is the hub for second-hand accessories, they have purses, handbags, watches, scarves and many more kinds of items to choose from. Each of their products has been authenticated and approved for purchase. If you don’t mind having a pre-loved handbag, then Designer Exchange won’t mind selling you one of the highest quality.
Genius:
Genius puts sustainability at the heart and soul of their business. They make sure that all of their denim is sourced reliably and ethically so that the clothes they sell can be bought and worn without having to worry about the planet.
BEST Menswear:
BEST Menswear makes sure that all of their products are sustainable and that their materials come from fair trade and sustainable farms and practices. They are also members of the Best Cotton Initiative, which focuses on making sure farmers all around the world know how to grow and source cotton in the most sustainable and green way possible.
Timberland:
Not only does Timberland support climate justice and sustainability, but they also went to the first Earth Day. And not only that, they also co-founded the Climate Action Corps. So if sustainability is an issue for you and your wardrobe, why not check out Timberland for your next pair of shoes?
Chupi Jewellery:
Chupi has a large commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness. They intentionally keep their jewellery low duty to cut down on how much potential waste they may be creating, and they also craft all of their jewellery out of 100% recycled solid gold, and they aim to be completely carbon neutral by 2030.
Fresh Cuts Clothing:
You can find many businesses in Dublin with an emphasis on sustainability, but what’s interesting about Fresh Cuts is that their emphasis is sustainability. Not only do they make fantastic items of clothing, but they also allow you to wear them completely guilt-free, as each item you buy will be an investment in its textile lifetime.
So there you have it! Clothes, shoes, toys, and soap, no matter what you may be looking to buy in town, there will always be retailers galore to help you out.