The Sustainable Edit

  millarsconnemara.ie | @millarsconnemara 

For well over a century, Millars Connemara has been trading in Clifden, Co. Galway. Steeped in tradition and style, Millars continues to excel as one of the most superior stores of its kind. Millars stock a variety of slow fashion brands that use ecological and sustainable materials, such as Elemente Clemente, who have committed themselves to ethical principles and reject exploitation and child labour in their supply chains.

Another favourite in store is Ecoalf which offers high-end recycled products with the same quality and design as their non-recycled counterparts. Millars also stock a variety of local Irish designers who use natural, renewable and sustainable materials, such as McNutt, Niamh Daniels, Clare O’Connor and Debbie Millington.

emeraldandwaxdesigns.com | @emeraldandwaxbyvirtueshine

In her latest collection, the lush softness of Irish  tweed has been meshed seamlessly with beautiful  and vibrant African Batakari prints to create  distinct, sustainable, one of a kind hand-made  pieces. This pairing reflects Virtue Shine’s own  journey of being born in West Africa, living in  New York, and rooting in the West of Ireland.

The Batakari or ‘Fugu’ fabrics used are hand-woven  by women from thick strips of cotton threads  constructed on large looms in the Northern region  of Ghana. Incorporating this fabric provides a  source of income and independence to these  women and ties in with Emerald and Wax’s ethical ethos. 

The Cornstore, 8A, Cross Street, Galway | no8.ie | @numbereight.ie

This environmentally conscious designer concept  store stocks preloved and new clothing and  accessories from brand names that you know and  trust. Gillian Quinn began this business in 2009,  bringing preloved luxury fashion to Galway. “By  supporting the preloved market, you are making a  difference to the environment and saving money.  There’s nothing more exciting than spying a  designer handbag that’s either limited in stock or  something of significant value that you may never  have the opportunity to buy again,” says Gillian. 

The circular fashion economy is the most  conscious way to shop in the 21st century.  Hundreds of billions of garments are sold each year and most end up in the trash.  Number Eight stocks a range of designer clothes  and accessories, including some of the most loved exclusive brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel  and Prada. Email no.8.galway@gmail.com or DM  them to discuss selling your designer clothes and  accessories or treat yourself to that Prada purse  by visiting the store.

Spiddeal and Oughterard | standun.com | @standunireland

Known for quality Aran knitwear and woollen goods, including the stunning selection of wool throws and scarves from Irish brands such as McNutts of Donegal and Foxford Woollen Mills, Standun has always promoted Irish clothing and giftware. Wool is a long lasting and a sustainable resource and is at the core of the Standun brand.

With the growing trend towards sustainability, the team have introduced new eco friendly brands across all departments, including; Thought Clothing, Eco Style (Colourful scarves made out of recycled plastic), Roka London Bags and Rita Oates Artists scarves and cards.