Page 73 - Rotterdam. Make It Happen

The diversity that characterises Rotterdam – the people, the buildings – is also reflected in the range of shops in the city. Large de- partment stores, small boutiques, special concept stores and unique speciality stores make shopping in Rotterdam a pleasure. The question is: where to start? Maybe in De Bijenkorf, the Dutch luxury department store in the heart of the city. Then go on a journey of discovery through the surrounding streets. High-end fashion stores can be found on the Meent, the Van Oldenbarneveltstraat and the Pannenkoekstraat. Take a look at Nen Xavier, who has a nose for beautiful vintage clothing, or visit JIP X Margreeth Olsthoorn, whe- re, in addition to high-end brands there are also exciting underground labels on the shelves. And don’t forget to check Swan, where you will find surprising products from small, local entrepreneurs. Feel free to go out for an afternoon to explore neighbourhoods such as the Oude Noorden or the Nieuwe Binnenweg. It is best to simply follow your nose. Before you know it, you’ll be admiring vintage sunglasses at Showroom41, tasting delicacies at Lof der Zoetheid, or trying on a pair of vegan sneakers with local designer Joline Jolink. A visit to the Susan Bijl store should not be missed: her sustainable shopping bag is definitely one of the most-seen accessories on the streets of Rotterdam – it’s the item that will show those back home that you have been to Rotterdam.
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Photo: Iris van den Broek