The Thoughtful Shopper: Christmas design pop-ups, jewellery launches and partywear rentals

Denim Doozy

Denim is one of the notoriously unsustainable materials by default – but there are better ways of producing it. Portuguese denim specialist Salsa Jeans is one of the key sustainable denim innovators, most notably through its Infinity programme, which recently earned the brand a nomination as one of four finalists – and as the only fashion brand – in the sustainability category at the Future of European Commerce awards. A repair service and recycling scheme for customers, Infinity determines the most environmentally-friendly option to repurpose your denim, by donating to charity, recycling, or repurposing. And with its newly-launched Faith range offering flared, print-laden, and feather trimmed jeans, there’s no better time to convert. salsajeans.com

Design Collectives

If an in-store shopping experience is more your game, consider stopping by the newly-launched Irish design pop-ups in Dublin city running throughout the festive season. On the top floor of Powerscourt Townhouse, Design Collective is back for its second edition featuring 17 brands across fashion, homewares, footwear, and accessories. From partywear dresses courtesy of FéRí to clean beauty buys from Nunaïa and sleepwear from Moon and Mellow, it’s the perfect gifting destination. Meanwhile, at nearby 40 Clarendon Street, six female founders have come together – as the Clarendon Collective – to launch a pop-up offering artwork (from Sarah Wickham Designs), tableware (from The Designed Table), fragrances (from Brooke & Shoals) and more. It’s a unique experience to meet the Irish makers and browse their collections.

Buy Better

A favourite of Irish Tatler, Melbourne footwear label ESSĒN has recently launched a sustainable jewellery edit of four handcrafted earring designs. Featuring hoop, drop, huggie, and disc styles, the earrings are crafted from 100 per cent recycled 18 carat gold vermeil and 925 sterling silver. The collection is available for pre-order, meaning each style is individually crafted, while the brand’s practices and materials are all verified by transparency platform Renoon. Short for essentials, ESSĒN’s philosophy is simple: buy less, choose better, wear longer. essenthelabel.com

Wrapped Up

Designed like a scarf, though versatile as a snood, and created from puffer jacket-esque material, the new wrap style from Irish brand Tidings is the perfect antidote to the harsh winter weather. Part of the brand’s Elemental Collection, designer Niamh Gillespie has created five style variations – from elaborate floral prints to typographic designs – made from a high-quality blend of silk and cotton, and padded with insulating eco-filler. tidings.ie

Rent It

When it comes to occasionwear, renting your wardrobe is one of the most sustainable alternatives. New from fashion rental platform Greens are Good For You and Dublin vintage store RÊVERIE, is a collaboration of luxury rental occassionwear (think McQueen midi dresses, Dior separates, and a Stella McCartney peplum dress) which will troubleshoot any partywear qualms. greensaregoodforyou.com