WHILE browsing the aisles of Brown Thomas (BT) on O’Connell Street over the weekend, I inevitably found myself in the accessories department. My attention was immediately drawn to the newly launched Pre-loved with Designer Exchange stand, which specialises in pre-owned luxury handbags. My mouth began to water.
The new section showcases an impressive selection of pre-loved Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Saint Laurent bags, and a fantastic opportunity for bargain hunters to shop highly sought after luxury brands at a discounted price.
Although I’m no expert in distinguishing the difference, these preloved bags appeared just as pristine as their full-priced counterparts. They appear to have been impeccably maintained, awaiting the next lucky individual to give them a new home.
What’s even more noteworthy is that those looking to sell their own pre-loved handbags can take advantage of this sustainable initiative. The exchange process comes full circle, enabling sellers to trade their cherished bags at the concierge desk for a BT gift card, which can be used for in-store purchases or online at BrowntTomas.com.
For me, the idea of saving up for a pre-loved designer handbag now feels not only attainable but opens up exciting possibilities for gifting on significant occasions.
The idea of pooling resources with a group to purchase a preloved designer handbag as a heartfelt gift immediately came to mind. Imagine the joy such a luxurious present would bring to someone celebrating a milestone or special moment in their life. It’s an opportunity to bestow a durable and memorable gift that carries both the allure of a high-end brand and the unique story of a preloved treasure.
This collaboration builds upon the success of previous pop-ups featuring curated collections of pre-loved handbags, and it’s wonderful to see Brown Thomas offering affordable options for those seeking luxury brands on a budget.
Brown’s Brasserie: A Haven for Shoppers in the Heart of Brown Thomas
One of the reasons for my impromptu shopping day out was that I received a generous invitation from BT to check out Brown’s Brasserie. As a dedicated columnist, and hungry after my perusing, I decided to fully immerse myself in the experience.
Halfway through a thorough shopping spree for Father’s Day gifts and belated birthday presents (and a treat for myself, of course), I took a little snack break.
When dining out, my boyfriend and I have a rule. We only order something we wouldn’t typically cook at home. Following this principle, we chose the sausage cassoulet – a cosy and comforting choice served on a bed of crispy sage, French fine beans, and vegetable ragu with a side of garlic mash. We also indulged in the mouth-watering hamburger with caramelised onions, Cashel blue cheese, Emmental, and dry-cured bacon on a brioche bun, served with a side of fries, naturally.
It was genuinely hard to believe we were seated above a shop buzzing with activity —Brown’s Brasserie felt like a distinct entity, a little oasis away from the bustle.
To complement our meals, we savoured two glasses of wine (yes, you can order drinks while shopping). Opting for the Château La Bastide Rouge, a Malbec-Merlot blend, I won’t pretend to speak the language of wine connoisseurs, but let’s just say that the red wine certainly enhanced my shopping experience.
Brown’s Brasserie boasts an extensive drink menu, offering an array of wines, cocktails, spritzers, and beers, alongside award-winning teas, coffees, and more.
The food menu is equally impressive, with reasonably priced options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. It’s the perfect place to take a break from shopping, discuss your latest purchases, and contemplate potential ones – aided, of course, by the wine.
