Amsterdam is full of gems for those tempted by some post-Christmas retail therapy. Check out our guide to our favourite places in Amsterdam to hit the January Sales!
The ‘All under one roof’ Shops
If you’re one of those shoppers who can’t bear trekking around from shop to shop then these one-stop wonders are for you. Amsterdam’s finest department stores with stonking sales and pretty much everything you could wish for all contained in some pretty magnificent buildings!
1. De Bijenkorf
Where is it? Dam 1, 1012 JS
Why do we love it? It’s a true Dutch instituation of fashion and style.
De Bijenkorf is a luxury department store, standing in a prime location on Dam Square, setting trends and defining tastes since the 1870. What initially started as a small haberdashery shop has since grown into the Netherlands’ largest premium department store. De Bijenkorf is continually adding brands to stock and, best of all, you can shop tax free!
2. Magna Plaza
Where is it? Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 182I, 1012 SJ
Why do we love it? Because neo-gothic architecture and shopping surely make for great bed-mates
A former post office, Magna Plaza is an indoor shopping centre located in a historical building behind the royal palace. With it’s neo-gothic architecture and mighty interior, it combines classical grandeur with a modern shopping experience. It has more than 20 stores and a new exhibition space spread over four floors, it’s a one stop shop for everything that you may need.
The Independent Darlings
If the bright lights of the major department stores aren’t for you then head this way. Amsterdam is full of independent delights where you’ll be happy to browse at a more leisurely pace. You won’t get the same big price slashes but we reckon it’s worth supporting small local businesses when your wallet has a little extra in it.
Done with shopping? Check out our guide to the most interesting things you can do in Amsterdam at night!
3. Young Designers United
Where is it? Keizersgracht 447, 1017 DK
Why do we love it? Because we love to support up and coming designers!
Young Designers United (YDU), near the Leidsestraat, sells reasonably priced clothing from young, up and coming designers based in the Netherlands. Each designer has their own rack to showcase their wearable clothing with a rebellious edge. Most pieces are handmade by the designer, and are only available in three sizes, but just ask and anything can be adjusted.
4. Doordeweeks
Where is it? Eerste Van Swindenstraat 22, 1093 GD
Why do we love it? Because it’s got all the things we LOVE, in one joyous shop
Wearers of vintage fashion, lovers of interior goodies, art and accessories rejoice! The latest store for Wiske and Jildou, Doordeweeks, is now multi-functional! After shopping until you drop, you can order a cup of coffee and a slice of homemade cake, from their live in café. Whilst you’re there why not get a new haircut in the Cut-To-Go chair, or book a makeover in the Make Up Bar.
Image courtesy of interiorjunkie.com
5. Wildernis
Where is it? Bilderdijkstraat 165F, 1053 KP
Why do we love it? Because in the age of buying too much STUFF, sometimes it’s nice to just buy a plant
You guessed it Wildernis = Wilderness. This shop is especially for the green-thumbed and plant-lovers, it’s the greenest place to be. This new shop in Old West, just around the corner from the Kinkerstraat, sells garden tools, special seeds and compost; but also botanical prints, fashionable plant hangers and stunning houseplants.
6. Nuvo Niche
Where is it? Prinsengracht 232, 1016 HE
Why do we love it? Because stepping inside feels like a little slice of happiness
Nuvo Niche sells designer trinkets and gifts, as well as fashion for women and men (the latter presented in the shop’s ‘guys’ corner’). There are local and established international brands, including Nuvo Niche’s own in-house clothing and design label.
The Vintage Experts
A modern day treasure hunt to find that one-of-a kind piece that only became a necessity when you lay eyes on it. Amsterdam has an array of second-hand shops, many of these are located in the Nine Streets districts. Most stores carry 50s to 80s women’s and men’s fashion.
Planning your shopping trip for January? We’re offering big discounts on stays at Clink! Check out our January Sale
7. Laura Dols
Where is it? Wolvenstraat 7, 1016 EM
Why do we love it? Because it’s like entering a real life dressing up closet!
Laura Dols has a collection of womens’ clothes from multiple decades. Looking for dresses, cami’s, shows to lovely vintage lingerie. This the lower floor of the store packed with party dresses and even wedding dresses. If you have a party to dress up for, this may just be the place for you.
8. Wini
Where is it? Haarlemmerstraat 29, 1013 EJ
Why do we love it? Because these guys know their vintage and can help you find pretty much whatever you’re looking for
Looking for some vintage ski wear, or perhaps a perfect petticoat? Wini’s is the place to go. With a specialist in vintage dresses you’re going to find everything here. Even new items with a retro-feel. Additionally there is a selection of vintage fabrics you can buy per metre, if you fancy making that perfect outfit.
9. 1953 Retro en Chic
Where is it? Staalstraat 2I, 1011 JL
Why do we love it? It’s small, but perfectly formed!
Don’t be fooled by the size of this small shop, 1953 Retro En Chic is packed to the rafters with must-haves. Transported into a boudoir from a bygone era, the shop has many rare items spanning the period from 1800 to 1980. Dresses, shoes, bags and elegant antiques. Prices range from cheap to more expensive as some items are sourced from London or Paris.
General Shopping Information for Amsterdam:
Regular Shopping Hours
Monday 13:00 – 18.00 (shops open later than usual)
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 9:00 – 18:00
Thursday: 09:00-21:00 (late-night shopping)
Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00 (this primarily applies to the shops on a near the Nieuwendijk and Kalverstraat. In some of the other shopping streets, you may find that only a selection of the shops are open on a Sunday.
