Jenny Vander of Drury Street – possibly Ireland’s leading vintage store!

by Rose Barrett
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Fancy a little classic vintage number? A funky beaded head piece to top off a special outfit or a Jackie O hat to crown your racing ensemble? Maybe even an original leather jacket from the ‘50s – Jenny Vander of Drury Street is a must for vintage followers.

Customer Clare at the Galway Races in a pink ensemble and Jackie O hat, all from Jenny Vander

Possibly Ireland’s leading vintage store, Jenny Vander originally opened at the then popular Georges Street Arcade in 1974. The shop later moved to its current location at number 50 on Drury Street in 2003.

Proprietor Gail with Holly Johnson of Frankie Goes to Hollywood who recently shopped at the Dublin vintage store

But it’s not just the Irish who know the authenticity of Jenny Vander; international celebrities flock to the Dublin vintage boutique and Jenny Vander has dressed superstars from the late Michael Jackson to more recently, Holly Johnson from Frankie Goes to Hollywood was delighted to purchase some items at Jenny Vander’s. Johnson was one of the headliners at the Forever Young Festival at Palmerstown and was only thrilled to discover the Dublin store after his airline lost his luggage!

Florence and the Machine along with superstar Aurora have made purchases at the Dublin antique fashion boutique – indeed, even Mark Harmon (the original Luke Skywalker) flies his wife over to shop there!

1950s gown with black silk tulle over ivory

So, what attracts international and Irish celebrities, along with a loyal customer base to the vintage store on Drury Street?

Proprietor Gail states: “Jenny Vander attracts such excitement and love because unlike some ‘vintage’ stores selling your 90’s fleeces, Adidas tops, etc. Jenny Vander sells true vintage and the prices are way lower than the competition.“

Daisy Edgar Jones (Marianne) in Normal People

Many TV viewers will remember the style of Daisy Edgar-Jones who played Marianne in  Sally Rooney’s enthralling series ‘Normal People’. Many of the outfits that transformed the geeky teenager Marianne into a boho-chic college student were sourced from Jenny Vander’s.

Beaded bags at Jenny Vander’s

“People come in the door and are pleasantly surprised when they pick up a gorgeous authentic ‘50s jacket, dry cleaned for €75. Dresses vary from €65; no nasty smells, everything has been washed or dry cleaned and beautifully presented.   “The 8 cabinets here are bursting with colour coordinated vintage and antique jewellery” noted Gail.

Authenticity is the reputation which has seen Jenny Vander maintain its clientele and attract an international following.

This stunning 1950’s dress has exquisite beaded work with ruched affect.

One stunning1950s pink brocade dress caught my eye in recent weeks. The dress is so well cut, very flattering with ruched affect. Too small for me but the detailed beadwork was just divine!

Shown here with a petticoat, Gail maintains that after the frugality of WWII, the master makers were generous with their fabric as it was more plentiful after the war. Designers, tired of ŕestrictions, war and narrow skirts took advantage and used ample fabrics and extensive details.

This brocade beauty is immaculate, repaired professionally and would make a fab wedding dress for a civil ceremony or indeed for a very special occasion! Size 10 €285.

Mellow Yellow: ’60s floral dress and coat set, size large

 Authentic vintage through the ages – whether it’s a funky Mary Quant look, or the elegance of Audrey Hepburn, check out Jenny Vander at No 50, Drury St, Dublin, D02 K462. Phone (01) 677 0406. See FB and Ins

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