Fashion in a Faraway Land

I am delighted to report that Dublin is most definitely a shopper's city. Anyone pressed for time can be certain to find something to take their fancy in Grafton Street, with H&M, Zara, Topshop, M&S, several far more upmarket (read expensive) department stores, as well as a healthy spattering of smaller, what I presume to be, chain stores. Stephen's Green shopping complex also has a lot of small boutique-esque offerings. But the real delight has been finding the little stores that do not form part of the main shopping thoroughfare. Tucked down the side-streets, discovered in rambling old arcades, nestled between cafes and pubs, these little stores are opening up a whole new world of fashion possibilities for me. And I must say that clothing in Dublin is comparatively quite affordable, which is at once exciting and economical! Dublin shopping reminds me a little bit of Melbourne, with the cobblestoned alleyways, hidden boutiques and interestingly different pieces, but without the Australian price tags. I have made a resolution- new city, new style. At this stage I am drawing inspiration from Tim Burton's fabulously fashionable film adaptation of Alice in Wonderland (think lots of colour, loads of taffeta, and a hint of lace), Gossip Girl (I have already started my venture here by purchasing some coloured and patterned opaque tights which I intend to wear with gorgeous colourful coats), and Audrey Hepburn (it seems that this fashion icon's influence is alive and well in Dublin, with many Hepburn-esque dresses, coats and tops catching my eye). So, like me, the key word is eclectic. Can't wait to embark on my journey of style!