shopping

Ireland has a new curated vintage store - with rare and exclusive finds

Established by journalist Katie Byrne, Inez & Paulie is a select mix of pieces you wish you owned

“Inez & Paulie is all about little moments in fashion history,” says founder Katie Byrne, “with a big leaning towards the maximalism and playfulness of the 1980s and 1990s.”

If there’s one wardrobe we’d love to raid it must be that of Katie Byrne. A seasoned journalist, editor and true style original, the Dubliner has been advising readers and friends on where best to direct their spending for years while assembling a substantial, vintage-dominated fashion collection of her own. She has now parlayed that practice into a shopping experience, named Inez & Paulie, where pre-loved pieces are selected and sold for those of a similar mindset.

“Inez & Paulie is all about little moments in fashion history,” Byrne says, “with a big leaning towards the maximalism and playfulness of the 1980s and 1990s. We source luxury vintage fashion and accessories that have collector’s interest and contemporary relevance, and which are ultimately worth the investment.”

Currently operating on Depop, Katie says that bigger plans for her nascent business are afoot. For now, she says, she is building the brand through word of mouth, including a message based on conscious, circular consumption. “A sustainable alternative to throwaway fast fashion, I’m interested in selling pieces to be cherished, passed down or even sold on,” she says. “But never, ever thrown away.”

Prices are reasonable while varied, with designer names spanning Chanel, Christian Dior, Gucci, YSL, Givenchy and Christian Lacroix, with a homewares collection in the works for early 2024.

Here, Byrne previews her latest and favourite Inez & Paulie pieces, with personal notes on why they caught her eye.

“There’s a lot of Princess Diana interest among vintage fashion collectors these days. This 1990s quilted cotton top (€110) is by Bellville Sassoon Lorcan Mullany, which was one of the late princess’s favourite fashion labels.”
“This super-rare, circa 1950s Gucci evening bag (€750) is one of the oldest I’ve come across. Beautifully preserved, the original owner even kept the gift box and ribbon.”
“This 1990s Christian Lacroix trompe-l'œil dress (€450) is a vintage nod to the current futuristic fashion trend and is as relevant today as it was way back when.”
“Vintage Yves Saint Laurent costume jewellery holds its value. We have vintage Yves Saint Laurent pieces designed by Robert Goossens as well as more affordable options, such as the classic flame brooch (€69).”
“ I love a framed silk scarf and at 33x33in, this 1980s silk, hand-printed piece by Zandra Rhodes (€150) is the perfect size to add impact and texture to a room.” (Frame not included.) Photo by katieabyrne
“I’ve never met a vintage Yves Saint Laurent heart-shaped piece I didn’t like, but I have a particular soft spot for the watches.” (from €400) Photo by katieabyrne
“These oversized 1980s Christian Dior mesh insignia earrings (€220) are perfect for party season.”

Shop these pieces and further Inez & Paulie finds on Instagram here