A Stylists Guide | Amsterdam Shopping
The shopping in Amsterdam is just so good. You'll find small independent boutiques dotting nearly every street and I made it my mission to try and pop in as many as I could. It was an easy task, considering their creative window displays and eye catching merchandise were continually luring me inside. Hands down, my favorite shop was de Weldaad. Their selection of antiques, home furnishings, accessories, and textiles were so beautifully curated. I loved the gentle wash of their soft muted color palette and worn wood surfaces displayed throughout the store. It was such a relaxing environment to browse. I seriously wanted to dump everything out of my luggage just so I could pack it up with their wares. Instead, I brought home candles and pillow covers. Sigh.
Raw Materials is another lovely shop for home decor and furnishings. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the neighborhood. You’ll find plenty of inspiration and probably a few treasures to take home. I loved their chunky knit blankets, unique glassware, and walls filled with black and white botanical framed art. They ship to the US which is always a plus when you’re traveling light. I’m thinking about making a pendant like the one below for the alcove in my master bath. They were around 650 euros so I passed on buying one. Hence the possible diy in my future. They seem simple enough to make. Famous first words of every diy project. I’ll keep you posted, or maybe you know a source and can spare me the trouble?
Before arriving in Amsterdam I had heard good things about Anna + Nina. They carry quite a bit of jewelry and clothing with a fresh mix of home accessories…think candles, art, mirrors, pottery and ceramics. The shop has an upbeat youthful vibe that I really enjoyed. It's a great place to buy gifts for teens or college students.
The glowing pierced metal pendant lights at Zenza were mesmerizing. They had them hanging all over the shop in a variety of metals – gold, silver, copper – every one just as beautiful as the next. I bought some pretty wooden spoons, tiny basil soaps nestled in bamboo dishes, and a few other souvenir trinkets here.
Dille & Kamille was a lot of fun to wander through. It reminds me a bit of Crate & Barrel or Williams Sonoma. There were hundreds of wooden kitchen tools, dishes galore, and a cute garden section. In the back of the store they have a coffee bar and tea atelier with a large selection of both to choose from. I love to bring tea home from my travels, especially signature proprietary blends. Every cup reminds me of my visit.
Marqt was sort of similar to our Whole Foods but on a smaller scale. Here we picked up delicious alpine yogurt, fresh fruit, croissants and the most beautiful hard candies - as souvenirs because they were too pretty to eat. Definitely the place to buy groceries and healthy snacks for your rental apartment or hotel room.
And a few other noteworthy shops:
Six and Sons – Loved this concept store with handmade leather goods, vintage and new wares. Shop de Ville – Colorful, fun, friendly place with quirky gifts and unique toys. A happy shop! Droog Amsterdam – Well curated mix of beautiful books, ceramics and decor. Restored – Design shop with handmade jewelry, clothing, accessories and apothecary. Sukha Amsterdam – Probably my second favorite! Fabulous, clever displays, gorgeous pottery, linens, sweaters & scarves. Again, all the things.
I hope you find my list useful the next time you find yourself in Amsterdam. Due to my profession, I've earned a black belt in shopping, and next to Paris, it's my favorite European city to spend an afternoon browsing inspiring shops. I loved their simple Scandinavian design influences and unique selection of products I’ve yet to see here in the US. Maybe someone will start importing...anyone? I’ll be your first customer!
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