Podcaster, writer and content creator Fionnuala Jay is a pop-culture enthusiast and sustainable style queen. Here, she shares six of the sustainable havens that Dublin has on offer.
Ireland's capital is home to some of the world’s coolest tourist attractions - but did you know Dublin also boasts several hubs for sustainable living?
From food to fashion, here are six places that are a must-visit for any eco-warriors.
1. Change Clothes Crumlin
Touted as Ireland’s first permanent swap shop, Change Clothes Crumlin’s ethos is all about showing that "secondhand is f***ing grand".
Founded by Mary Fleming, Change Clothes Crumlin wants to make secondhand clothing fun, social and - most importantly - affordable.
At Change Clothes Crumlin, you can swap your existing wardrobe for a new-to-you one, rent a secondhand dress for a special occasion or take part in an upcycling and repair workshop.
Book in with the gang on your next free weekend here.
2. Airfield Estate
Sustainable foodies will find lots on offer at Airfield Estate in Dublin 14. Home to the Overend family since 1894, Airfield was left in trust to the people of Ireland by Letitia and Naomi Overend in 1974.
The Overends championed self-sufficiency and sustainability - a mission statement that is being carried through today thanks to their impressive roster of events.
Whether you're interested in adult beekeeping, a cooking class or a gardening course, there’s something wholesome for everyone at Airfield.
Don’t forget to visit Overends Kitchen for a bite to eat after - Dublin’s most sustainable restaurant as voted by the Restaurant Association of Ireland. Yum!
You can find out more about Airfield Estate here.
3. Rediscovery Centre
Did you know Dublin is home to Ireland’s National Centre for the Circular Economy?
The Rediscovery Centre is all about making education around the circular economy fun and accessible to all - whatever age you are.
You can revamp your furniture at one of their upcycling workshops, learn about what Ireland has to offer in terms of foraging, or rework your wardrobe by taking one of their alterations classes.
As well as that, you can take a wander through their beautiful biodiversity and kitchen gardens, pick up some recycled paint for your next DIY project and enjoy a spot of lunch at the Boiler House Café.
Find out more about what’s happening at The Rediscovery Centre here.
4. Agité Closet
Agité Closet boasts one of the city’s most stunning vintage collections in the beloved Chocolate Factory in Dublin 1.
Having worked in fashion for 15 years, founder and owner Monica Martinez Bermudez found herself reflecting on her relationship with the industry during the pandemic.
Motivated to change her habits around fashion consumption, Agité Closet was born. Bermudez sources fashionable secondhand pieces from across Europe.
You can book a slot to visit the showroom here.
5. Bohemia Flea Market
Held on the second Sunday of every month in Kelly’s Yard in Phibsborough, Bohemia Flea Market is a treasure trove of curios, crafts and secondhand fashion.
Ireland’s weather remains unpredictable, but never fear - Bohemia is both indoors and outdoors, so you can stay dry while you browse.
Fancy showcasing your own wares? You can email lezeitgeistcrew@gmail.com for more information.
6. Wilde Vintage Furniture
If secondhand furniture is your thing, Wilde Vintage Furniture in Drumcondra needs to be on your radar.
Owner Karl Larkin sources unique pieces from the '60s, ‘70 and ‘80, making Wilde the perfect place for a weekend amble.
Wilde Vintage Furniture is open to the public Saturdays and Sundays, and by appointment Monday to Friday.
