Second Hand Shop Near Me: Guide to Thrifting in Dublin & Online
Anyone who has ever stumbled upon a hidden gem in a charity shop knows the thrill. In Dublin, that experience is more accessible than ever, with a secondhand scene that ranges from bargain-filled charity shops to curated vintage boutiques, as RTÉ (Ireland’s national public service broadcaster) reports. You’ll find out how to spot the best second hand shop near you, whether you are hunting through Dublin’s neighbourhoods or scrolling online at home.
Oxfam Ireland shops: 45 shops across the island (Oxfam Ireland) ·
Dublin secondhand guide: RTÉ’s 2025 guide covers thrift shops, salvage yards (RTÉ) ·
Enable Ireland online shop: Charity retail available on eBay (Enable Ireland) ·
Vintage guide from Vogue: Curated Dublin stores featured March 2025 (Vogue)
Quick snapshot
- Nonprofit, support causes (Oxfam)
- Donated items, low prices (Oxfam)
- Examples: Oxfam, Enable Ireland, St. Vincent de Paul
- Often for-profit or mission-driven
- Curated selection possible
- Examples: Goodwill (USA), Lucy’s Lounge (Dublin)
- Sellers share profit
- Higher prices, better quality
- Trendy and vintage items
- Global reach, home delivery
- Variety: clothing, furniture, electronics
- Examples: ThredUp, Depop, eBay, Facebook Marketplace
Six key facts from the research, one pattern: Dublin’s secondhand ecosystem is layered, stretching from traditional charity shops to digital marketplaces, and each layer serves a different shopper.
| Fact | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Dublin secondhand scene | Includes vintage boutiques, charity shops, flea markets, salvage yards | RTÉ |
| Oxfam Ireland shops | 45 shops across the island | Oxfam Ireland |
| Enable Ireland online charity shop | Previously loved items on eBay | Enable Ireland |
| Charity Retail Ireland | All-island umbrella organisation for the sector | Charity Retail Ireland |
| Vogue’s Dublin vintage guide | Best vintage stores, published March 2025 | Vogue |
| Visit Dublin vintage guide | Updated April 2026, covers retro shops and flea markets | Visit Dublin |
Where is the best place to buy a second hand?
The answer depends on what you’re after: local charity shops offer immediate treasures, while online platforms open up global inventory. Two routes dominate.
Best local second hand shops
- In Dublin, Oxfam Ireland (charity retailer with 45 shops) is a reliable starting point for clothing and books.
- Enable Ireland (disability charity) also runs a chain of charity shops across the city.
- Visit Dublin (official tourism authority) highlights neighborhoods like George’s Street Arcade and Temple Bar for vintage finds.
Online marketplaces for secondhand goods
- Platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace are dominant for furniture and electronics — and they operate globally.
- Enable Ireland even sells online via its eBay charity shop, making it possible to bag a deal from home.
Are there thrift stores in Dublin, Ireland?
Yes, but the language matters. In Ireland the term “thrift store” is less common than in the US; locals say “charity shop” or “second-hand shop”.
What are thrift shops called in Ireland?
- Charity Retail Ireland (sector umbrella body) uses “charity retail” as the standard term.
- RTÉ’s guide groups thrift shops with salvage yards and antique shops, reflecting the broader Irish ecosystem.
Top thrift stores in Dublin
- Lucy’s Lounge on Drury Street is a well-known vintage boutique.
- According to a Reddit discussion (community forum), shoppers recommend Capel Street, George’s Street, and Camden Street for clusters of charity shops.
- Vogue’s March 2025 guide lists curated vintage stores in Dublin, giving the city national fashion press.
Dublin’s thrift scene is alive and well, but navigating it requires knowing the local language — “charity shop” is your keyword.
The implication: shoppers who adapt their search terms will uncover far more options than those who stick with American terminology.
Why does Gen Z like to thrift?
Gen Z is driving the secondhand revolution, and the numbers back it up. A Goodwill representative told media that “Gen Z is driving the secondhand revolution because they care about the planet and their wallet.”
Environmental concerns
- Each garment thrifted saves roughly 2.5 kg of CO2, according to WRAP estimates (cited in many sustainability pieces).
- Young shoppers increasingly reject fast fashion’s waste model.
Cost savings and style
- Secondhand prices are often 50–80% lower than retail, making it possible to buy better brands for the same budget.
- Social media trends like #ThriftHaul popularize the hunt for unique vintage pieces.
Is a thrift store the same as a second hand?
Not exactly. Thrift stores are usually nonprofit and sell donated goods, while second-hand shops can be for-profit. Consignment shops split the sale with the original owner.
Differences between thrift, consignment, and second hand
- Thrift store: nonprofit, donated items, low prices – example: Goodwill (USA).
- Consignment shop: profit share with seller, higher quality – common for vintage clothing.
- Charity shop (Irish context): nonprofit supporting a social cause – Oxfam, Enable Ireland.
- Second-hand shop: for-profit, any goods – can overlap with charity shops in colloquial use.
When to choose each type
- Choose a charity shop for the lowest prices and a feel-good factor.
- Choose a consignment shop for curated, high-quality pieces you’re willing to pay more for.
- Choose a second-hand shop (for-profit) for everyday bargains on furniture and electronics.
What is the best second hand shop online?
Online secondhand shopping has exploded, with platforms tailored to different categories. Two stand out for clothing and one for general goods.
Best online vintage stores
- Depop is popular among Gen Z for vintage and streetwear.
- Vinted offers peer-to-peer clothing sales across Europe.
- ThredUp (USA-focused) is a large online thrift store, though not shipping to Ireland.
Popular platforms for secondhand clothing and furniture
- eBay remains the go-to for furniture and electronics, with local filtering.
- Facebook Marketplace is widely used in Dublin for secondhand furniture and household items.
Online platforms offer unparalleled variety, but you cannot inspect the item before buying – a risk that in-person charity shops eliminate.
The catch: convenience and breadth come at the cost of physical inspection, so know your measurements and return policies before clicking buy.
Does buying second hand save money?
Yes, significantly. The average saving vs retail is 50–80%, and quality is often higher for the same price as a fast fashion item.
Comparison with fast fashion prices
- At a charity shop you might find a wool coat for €20 that would cost €150 new.
- Thrifting allows you to buy higher-quality materials (cotton, wool) for the same budget as synthetic fast fashion.
Tips for saving money thrifting
- Visit shops in wealthier neighbourhoods for higher-end donations.
- Go frequently – stock changes daily.
- Check for sales and special discounts (some charity shops offer student deals).
How do secondhand shopping options compare?
Three models, one comparison: each suits a different shopper’s priority.
| Option | Business Model | Price Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charity Shop | Nonprofit, funds social cause | Low | Everyday bargains, supporting charity |
| Consignment Shop | Profit share with seller | Medium to high | Curated vintage, quality pieces |
| Online Marketplace | For-profit platform | Variable | Convenience, wide selection |
Pros and cons of secondhand shopping
Upsides
- Save 50–80% vs retail
- Unique finds, no mass production
- Environmentally friendly – saves CO2 per item
- Supports local charities and causes
Downsides
- No returns or warranties on most purchases
- Time-consuming to find specific items
- Quality can be hit or miss
- Limited sizes and styles
Separating fact from rumor
Confirmed facts
- Gen Z thrifting trend is real and measured by multiple sources, including Goodwill.
- Thrift stores and second-hand shops differ by business model (nonprofit vs for-profit).
- Savings from buying secondhand are substantial compared to retail (50–80%).
What’s unclear
- Whether “thrift store” is the correct term in all English-speaking regions (varies by country).
- The exact market share of online vs offline secondhand shopping in Dublin remains unmeasured.
- Long-term environmental benefits depend on consumer behavior (e.g., replacing vs adding to wardrobe).
Quotes from the community
“Gen Z is driving the secondhand revolution because they care about the planet and their wallet.”
— Goodwill representative (cited in multiple outlets)
“In Dublin, our shops are busier than ever, especially with young people looking for sustainable fashion.”
— Oxfam Ireland shop manager (interview with RTÉ)
“I love thrifting because I can find unique pieces without supporting fast fashion.”
— Gen Z thrifter, via social media interviews
Your next move
For Dublin shoppers, the choice is clear: head to a local charity shop for the best bang for your buck and a clear conscience, or browse online marketplaces for convenience. Either way, you’re saving money and reducing waste — and that’s a trend worth joining.
traverse-blog.com, reddit.com, yellowpages.com, youtube.com, uptowncheapskate.com
Related coverage: thrift shops near you in Ireland fördjupar bilden av Thrift Shops Near Me in Ireland: Charity Shops Guide.
Frequently asked questions
How can I find second hand shops open now near me?
Use Google Maps with the search “charity shop” or “second-hand shop” in Dublin. Many Oxfam and Enable Ireland shops have regular hours, and some are open on Sundays.
What is the 3-3-3 rule in fashion, and how does it relate to thrifting?
The 3-3-3 rule suggests buying only three new items per season, swapping three, and thrifting three. It encourages conscious consumption.
Are second hand shops cheaper than fast fashion?
Yes, typically 50–80% cheaper, and the quality per dollar is often higher.
What items are safest to buy second hand?
Clothing (especially jackets, jeans, coats), books, and furniture are generally safe. Avoid used mattresses and car seats for hygiene and safety.
Can I return items bought from second hand shops?
Most charity shops do not accept returns, but some consignment shops may offer store credit. Always ask before buying.
How do I know if a second hand shop is reputable?
Check if it is a registered charity (e.g., Oxfam, Enable Ireland) or has positive reviews on Google/Yelp.
Do second hand shops in Dublin have furniture?
Yes, many charity shops in Dublin sell small furniture items. For larger pieces, try eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
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