The Secret has been revealed!

A trip to Howth is always a pleasant experience on a sunny day, even more so when you stumble across its best kept secret..(well not anymore!) Looking for stylish people to photograph I wandered into 'The Secret Closet'. I found a lot more than just stylish people! I was suddenly in Ireland's most incredible boutique.

Never before have I met such a friendly and helpful shop owner. I interrupt during her lunch yet Karen is more than happy to show me around and pull out the most luxurious labels for me to look gooey eyed at. She co-owns the store with her sister Leslie, and tells me it's a second hand store. Second Hand? It doesn't look second hand. It simply looks like a beautiful store with wonderful designer pieces!

She explains how growing up she couldn't afford designer items but loved their quality so she decided on creating this wonderful haven of mint condition second hand designer treasures.

Jimmy Choo's €167

The prices are staggering. Jimmy Choo's for under €200! Prada shoes for €150! D&G skirts and cardigans for under €70! Where have these pieces come from and how are they so cheap???

Reiss dress €99

The items come from all over, from boutiques, stylish celebrities and the general public. Everything in the store is in perfect, mint condition and is no older then two years. There are pieces coming in every day so you'll always see something new. I'd recommend visiting the store even if it's just to see the magnificent black Christian Dior gown from London Fashion Week worth £9,000 that is going for under €1,000!

Christian Dior

The amazing thing about each item is that there is only one of them. A lot of the pieces still have their tags on them. Nothing looks used! Designs from Mochino, Mulberry, Marc Jacobs, Diane Von Furstenberg, Gucci, Christian Dior, Prada.  The only high street they stock is Karen Millen and the rare Coast item. Writing this piece I am so excited because I have discovered a truly magnificent store and cannot wait to return to it.

Moschino Dress €245

Diane Von Furstenberg €149

Every customer who comes through 'The Secret Closet's door is greeted with the same helpful, pleasant manner. Even their newest edition to their team Nadine is at it while I am there. I over hear her enthusiasm towards customers welcoming them inside. The service is five star. I am told if someone is looking for something special, maybe a particular style dress or a designer handbag and they don't have any in stock, their number will be taken down and they will be called when something suitable comes in. This is incredibly good customer service.

Jimmy Choo's for  €199!

Aside from being wonderfully pleasant owners Karen and Leslie are stylists. They have that personal touch when you arrive in store looking for help. They will dress you from head to toe, picking out all sorts for you to try on. Whether you're looking for an outfit to wear to a special occasion such as a wedding, christening, to the races, or maybe just for a night out on the town there is something here for you. The lovely ladies will help you. If it's more your cup of tea to go it alone you're more than welcome to rummage around and find little sparkling gems.

Karen among the wall to wall designer creations

Marc Jacobs cardigan €67 Ta Ta Naka dress €149

Chloe skirt €127

I have more than enjoyed my trip to 'The Secret Closet' and by the time I'm leaving I feel I know Karen the co-owner. I imagine she would nearly invite me to stay for the mid day coffee her and Nadine are about to have just to chit chat about all things designer and stylish.

A trip to this store is a must for anyone who loves getting a good deal on a designer piece. If you're looking for something nice to wear this is the spot. Go with a few euro and a bit of time so you can take in every inch of this intimate three floor wonderland.

I guarantee you will enjoy the experience, whether it's Karen, Leslie, Nadine or Ali who looks after you. They will treat you like an A-Lister and you will leave with a smile on your face.