Five places to shop the sales that aren’t on the high-street (hint: they’re all Irish boutiques)

Ah, sales. Like Marmite, you either love them or hate them. If you’ve ever witnessed the spectacle of a Zara sale, then you’ll understand that an apocalyptic switch goes off in shopper’s brains causing them to lose all sense of civilised behaviour for the duration of the time spent in the store. If you are chasing one particular piece you’ve been devoted to all season, then you need to be vigilant so as not to miss it. If you dive into a sale unplanned it can be totally chaotic. Unlike shopping the sales on the high street, boutique shopping is a great option if you want to invest in non-seasonal pieces that will withstand the fury of fast fashion trends.

Before you spend all of your wages in one go, be strategic with your sartorial choices: will you get your cost-per-wear for this? How many outfits can you wear it with? Is it an impulse buy? These are the questions I ask myself before committing to uploading my precious card details or pinning in the code, and you should too. In celebration of Irish boutique’s around the country and our first ever Boutique Awards, here’s a useful to assist you in finding the perfect sale buy that will bring you right through to next season – all from Irish boutiques, of course!

Solemates at Buffalo Shoe Labs, Exchequer St, Dublin 2

Safari woven wedge, €60 at weareshoelab.com

It’s been a while since wedge sandals were considered a summer nonnegotiable – mules and open-toed sandals kind of stole their thunder. But the fashion posse has truly fallen back in love with wedges this season, and everyone from Zara and H&M to Chloé and McQueen recreating this comfortable summer shoe. With a super light-weight sole and a slightly inclined wedge sole, these safari-inspired cream and black weave wedges at the Buffalo Shoe Lab, Dublin, are perfect for walking around all day when you need that bit of height but without the foot-ache. Not just for summer, these office-friendly shoes will look perfect come September and October with a delicate knit draping over your shoulders.

Oasis dreaming at Avoca.com

Silk desert print skirt, €95.98 at avoca.com

Be transported to a beautiful oasis in this unique desert-printed silk skirt from Avoca. Let bright pastels and warm terracotta shades compliment your summer glow right through to autumn. Pleating gives this skirt more fluidity and movement, while the high waistline hugs the body tight; exaggerating feminine curves in a gentle and sophisticated way. When the weather turns, swap sandals and mules instead for boots and a cropped leather jacket. This is a perfect transitional piece to invest in.

Brazen blooms at Anastasia Boutique, Ranelagh, Dublin 6

Orla Kiely floral sweater in ivory, €260 at anastasiashop.com

Irish designer Orla Kiely is an expert in patterns, and with each passing season brings she brings a new and exciting edit. This flower sweater, found at anastasiashop.com, demands to be worn with a mix-match patterned skirt and of-the-minute heels. Tone the look back for daytime with dark blue denim, chunky trainers and a leather tote bag. A pop of burnt orange on the lips is a clever way to incorporate the bright colours without being too obvious. Subtlety is key.

Clean and light at Willow boutique, O’Connell Street, Ennis, Co. Clare

Anonyme Maria shirt in white, €38.50 willow.ie

Give your white shirt an understated reboot with exciting vertical red racing stripes. This romantic shirt was found at Willow boutique, Co Clare, and can be worn alone or as an additional layer over spaghetti straps. The matching skirt, also available at Willow boutique and willow.ie completely transforms this simple shirt from day to evening. The addition of a belt around the waist will add a point of difference and exaggerate your silhouette further.

Crossover knit cami in emerald, €63 at seagreen.ie

From Seagreen boutique, this knitted from tactile cotton, this crossover tank has a simple front shape and low, wrap-effect back. Wear it styled with wide-leg pants, loose skirts or sophisticated and fitted shorts. Don’t forget to pack a light jacket for when the temperature begins to drop.

Click below to vote on your favourite Irish boutique in our Boutique Awards 2018