The city of Amsterdam is quickly becoming known as Europe's new design hub, thanks to a collection of unique and quirky ateliers that are popping up all over the city. Move aside Scandi cool, these made-in-Holland shops are stealing the spotlight. Discover the best places to shop and explore in Amsterdam.
Exploring Love Stories in Jordaan
Love Stories, a much-loved Dutch underwear brand, has its flagship store in Jordaan. Here, patrons are delighted by exquisite lace-edged bralettes in a range of naturally inspired colours and soft pastel florals. Complementary satin briefs are available, along with matching pyjamas, camisoles, cosy robes, and comfortable loungewear. A standout feature of the store is their swimwear including charming off-the-shoulder one-piece suits, bold retro patterns, metallic designs, as well as chic beach cover-ups and oversized cotton shirts. Shoppers tipped off to their great deals frequent the brand's archive outlet in De Pijp, where they can score items from previous collections at a reduced price.
Address: Love Stories, Herengracht 296 - 298, 1016 BX, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: lovestoriesintimates.com
Filling Pieces, Jordaan
What started with Guillaume Philibert’s now-legendary Low Top trainers evolved into Filling Pieces – a hip streetwear range that blends high-quality casuals with sharp tailoring. The result is asymmetric boiler suits, wool varsity jackets and athleisure-inspired knits. One wall of the minimalist store is still devoted to footwear with new style Crease Runner, a knitted running shoe and suede-contrast mountain boots as well as special editions by international artists.
Address: Filling Pieces, Berenstraat 11, 1016 GG Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: fillingpieces.com
Six and Sons, Jordaan
In the Jordaan district, Six and Sons relaunched last year, putting a fresh focus on buys with an interesting backstory, from sneakers made out of plastic bottles and cork to banana-plant rucksacks.
Address: Six and Sons, Haarlemmerdijk 31, 1013 KA Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: sixandsons.com
Discover Verse in De Pijp
Gerard Doustraat, situated in the De Pijp district, is home to a variety of unique local shops including Verse, a standout location. This vendor is prominently recognized for its commitment to sustainable fashion, featuring brands such as Rita Row, Armedangels, and Embassy of Bricks and Logs. These environmentally friendly labels, which reinstate local commerce, second-hand items, recycled clothing, and a resistance to plastic, are proudly displayed in the store's front window.
In addition to eco-friendly clothing, Verse offers a collection of all-natural beauty products. This includes Abel fragrances, vegan-friendly Wonderbar sea-salt soaps, and more. It goes even further with eco-conscious living offering Kinfill biodegradable home-cleaning kits and bamboo toothbrushes, ensuring a full spectrum of environmentally responsible products.
Location: Verse, Gerard Doustraat 84, 1072 VW, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Online Shop: versegoodstore.com
Discover Mendo Bookstore in De Wallen
One of the shining gems in Amsterdam's literary terrain, the Mendo bookstore, is well-known for its wide collection of books on design, art, and fashion. Having relocated to Nieuwe Doelenstraat recently, it is now just a short stroll away from the iconic floating flower market. The store's ambiance mimics that of a sophisticated library, complete with expansive floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, comfortable reading nooks by the window, and inviting plush chairs that make you want to sit down and immerse yourself in a world of books. A must-see at Mendo is their city-specific literature, including the stunning photographic journey, Streets of Amsterdam that touches upon previously unexplored vistas of the Dutch capital.
Location: Mendo, Nieuwe Doelenstraat 10, 1012 CP Amsterdam, Netherlands
Online Presence: mendo.nl
Unveiling The Gathershop in Oud-West
Nestled within the multi-purpose space of De Hallen, a transformed industrial complex comprising about cinema, a food-hall and retail outlets, you'll find The Gathershop. This hidden gem showcases a meticulously selected range of lifestyle products from small, global studios. Among the offerings, you'll discover Danish Notem stripe-patterned notebooks, handcrafted ceramic cups glazed in a lush sea-green from France, and the intoxicating aroma of Brandt Kaarsen’s soy-wax candles, poured thoughtfully in Utrecht. The shop is organized into segments: a collection of gold and silver jewelry graces one wall, beauty products lie elegantly on a cream dresser, and fashion pieces – including linen dresses and jumpsuits from Lithuanian OffOn and Sixties-inspired blouses by Amsterdam's own The Darling – occupy a cozy corner.
Interestingly, The Netherlands houses more than 90 retail chains which have expanded internationally, hosting more than 35,000 stores across the globe. This makes the Dutch retail sector a significant global player, and The Gathershop is one of the unique additions to this list, contributing to Amsterdam's vibrant shopping culture.
Location: The Gathershop, Hannie Dankbaarpassage 19, 1053 RT Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: gathershop.nl
Exploring Fest in Da Costabuurt
Seven years back, Femke Furnée was faced with a challenge when furnishing her new living space, she wanted premium quality but at a reasonable cost - this set the stage for the conception of Fest. Her exquisite collection is draped in deep, lavish hues and incorporates textures such as suede, cord, and velvet, embodying the elegance of the Art Deco era. Highlight pieces include the ergonomically designed Sinclair round lounge chair crafted by the German based company, Meike Harde, or the geometrically interesting split mirror produced by local artisans Ontwerpduo. Check out their range of accessories that can easily fit in your suitcase like graphic-pattern pillows, contemporary gold candleholders, or purple glass vases found near the cash register.
Location: Fest, De Clercqstraat 44, 1052NG Amsterdam, Netherlands
Online Presence: festamsterdam.com
Discover Wildernis in Da Costabuurt
If you are enchanted by green spaces, then Wildernis will captivate you. As soon as you step foot in this plant paradise, you're greeted by a stunning canopy formed by tropical vines such as the vast asparagus ferns and unique shapes of rhipsalis paradoxa. Everywhere you look, there are creatively displayed greenery along with an array of plant care tools, unique terrariums, and planters. At the entrance, spot intricate cactus arrangements climbing up a ladder. Pay attention to the attractive macramé pot holders along their walls that add a touch of nature to the interiors.
While you are exploring this botanical bliss, don't forget to appreciate a warm, aromatic espresso from their coffee machine. As you sip on your coffee, take your time to select from a variety of seeds and botanical-themed stationery that will certainly brighten up your home or workspace.
Address: Wildernis, Bilderdijkstraat 165F, 1053 KP Amsterdam, Netherlands
Web Link: Explore Wildernis
A Glimpse into Marie-Stella-Maris, Located in the 9-Streets
Established in 2011, Marie-Stella-Maris emerged as a philanthropic mineral water company. For each litre sold, the company generously donates five cents to fund water projects in Africa and Asia. By 2014, they expanded their product line to include organic skincare products and shortly afterwards, a selection of home fragrances enriched with notes of black pepper, sandalwood, patchouli, geranium and lavender became part of their offering. As you enter the shop, what strikes you is the striking monochrome aesthetic, beautifully highlighted by cinema box-lights that illuminate the product display on the back wall. The store also hosts masterclasses downstairs for those interested in creating custom-made scents. The founding principle still prevails, as a portion of each sale continues to fund water-based initiatives.
Did you know that Marie-Stella-Maris has been actively contributing towards solving the global water crisis? Moreover, their products not only aim to satisfy customer needs but also contribute to a greater cause.
Address: Marie-Stella-Maris, Keizersgracht 357HS, 1016 EJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: marie-stella-maris.com
Fashion Destination for Kids: Gray Label in Nine Streets
For those who are seeking quality children's clothing without the typical childish patterns, Gray Label is the place to go. Founder Emily Gray has carved a unique niche with her range of unisex organic cotton apparel, aimed at newborns up to ten-year-olds. Embracing simplicity, Emily offers a spectrum of muted colours and streamlined designs - from blush-pink sweaters, to mustard vests, and olive overalls. Not only does the collection blend seamlessly together, it's also versatile to make quick outfit changes a breeze.
But her creativity doesn't stop here. She's joined hands with Slovakian brand Novesta to introduce an exclusive line of felt sneakers and eco-friendly rubber rain boots. And that's not all, you can also find finely-curated additional items, like handcrafted wooden toys by Maison Deux, and sustainable bamboo snack boxes from Ekobo.
Location: Gray Label, Huidenstraat 17, 1016 ER Amsterdam, Netherlands
Official Site: gray-label.com
Ingrid Hofstra
Fabienne Chapot, the 9-streets
Dutch designer Fabienne Chapot is known for the kind of kitsch outfits – butterfly dresses, leopard-print shorts, cream tops with gold pineapples – spotted around Amsterdam’s trendier quarters.
Address: Fabienne Chapot, Hartenstraat 7, 1016 BZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: fabiennechapot.com
Atelier des Femmes, the 9-streets
Just across the Herengracht canal, Floor Bos’s equally pretty Atelier des Femmes, a tiny store that’s only open on Saturdays, has all kinds of super-stylish headwear with a French twist, from Alice bands and bucket hats to scrunchies inspired by stars such as Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot.
Address: Atelier des Femmes, Herengracht 243, 1016 BH, Amsterdam
Website: atelierdesfemmes.com
Atelier Sukha, Haarlemmerbuurt
A pair of rope swings with chunky knitted seat covers hangs by the entrance to all-white Atelier Sukha, where practically everything, from the textile totems on the wall to the woven palm-fibre bags by the indigenous Xavante people of Brazil, is produced in small quantities or crafted from natural materials. Womenswear by Dutch labels – Monique van Heist denim work jackets, khaki linen dresses by FANT, vintage embroidered salmon-pink silk kimonos from Dream Tribe – is arranged in understated colour groups on wonky wooden rails alongside hand-drawn postcards, linen floor cushions, clusters of paper lanterns and a table piled high with grey bowls and plates handmade in Nepal.
Address: Sukha Amsterdam, Haarlemmerstraat 110, 1013 EW Amsterdam, Netherlands
Website: sukha.nl
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
If you're looking for a stylish and well-located hotel in Amsterdam, The Hoxton is the perfect choice. Situated right on the Herengracht canal and a short stroll away from the charming boutiques of the 9 Straatjes district, this hotel is ideally positioned for exploring the city. To discover more hotel offers in Amsterdam, there are numerous options to cater to every preference and budget.
The Hoxton, Amsterdam features beautifully designed rooms by Nicemakers, a local studio that drew inspiration from Dutch modern art. The rooms are bathed in natural light, with pale herringbone floors, beds adorned with tan leather headboards, and striking geometric mirrors. Some rooms even offer stunning views of the canal. When searching for the top accommodations in the city, tophotels.com offers a list of highly-rated hotels for comparison and selection to ensure you find the perfect stay.
During your stay at The Hoxton, don't miss the opportunity to dine at Lotti's restaurant. With its retractable glass roof, this trendy spot attracts a crowd of laptop-tapping visitors. Indulge in delicious crab salads and stacked burgers while enjoying the lively atmosphere. On sunny days, you can also opt to sit outside and savor an ice-cold beer while admiring the passing boats.
Expert Recommendations
Anna de Lanoy Meijer and Nina Poot, the creative minds behind the jewellery and lifestyle enterprise Anna + Nina
Their latest culinary fascination is Gertrude, a fresh addition to Bosboom Toussaintstraat's food scene. The restaurant captivates with its delightful assortment of small dishes meant for sharing. Be prepared to fall in love with their mackerel pâté, delicate burrata and the mouth-watering madeleines paired with cream. Also, their extravagant wine selection and relaxed setting contribute to the overall splendid dining experience.''
For an infusion of cultural richness, Meijer and Poot recommend visiting The Movies, a vintage designed art-house cinema on the Haarlemmerdijk, and Foam, a museum dedicated to modern photography.'
Take an early morning visit to the Noordermarkt flea market on Mondays for an array of captivating antiques and second-hand housewares. It's all about the early bird catching the worm here. As a well-earned treat after your antiquing adventure, stop by café Winkel43, known city-wide for their irresistible apple pie.'