It’s been over a year now since I’ve moved to Amsterdam, and being from Belgium, I’ve noticed with my fashion eye that the urban style in the capital city of the Netherlands is quite different from what I’m used to.
If you’ve recently moved here or are planning a trip to Amsterdam, here’s a useful guide to what all the cool girls are wearing in Amsterdam.
1. Adidas gazelle
The number one item on the list to blend in and look like a true Dutchie are the Adidas Gazelle. You see them everywhere and I’m sure every Amsterdam cool-girl has at least one pair. They’re quite affordable and you can get them in many different colours. Not to forget they go with everything!
2. A cute bike
Bikes are the mode of transport in Amsterdam. Actually, it’s more than that. It’s a lifestyle, an aesthetic, a vibe, an essential. If you just moved to Amsterdam, after buying Gazelles, head to the bike shop. Bonus points for decorated bikes with baskets!
3. Vintage designer bag
Vera Van Erp is one of Amsterdam’s most famous style icons. She’s known as a trendsetter who breathes and expresses the city’s fashion, and I just can’t help but love her tomboy-ish model-off-duty looks. Here, she’s rocking a vintage designer bag, as I’ve seen many girls in Amsterdam wearing. The most popular brands are Fendi and Gucci.
The vintage designer trend portrays the sustainable character of Amsterdam. Influencers and models make a statement by choosing the most worn-out bags to give an effortless look and bring across the message: I’m proud to wear vintage.
4. White ribbed tank top
The white ribbed tank top is a cult favourite in the city. Sporty-casual, easy to combine, and you can find them pretty much anywhere.
5. Birkenstock Bostons
Adding to the effortless style, the Birkenstock Bostons are a go-to in the Amsterdam street-style. Perfect for a casual coffee stop or errands run, these loafers are the ultimate comfy fashion statement. With fall right around the corner, they might be your favourite purchase for cozy season!
6. Vintage levis
Staying in the sustainable fashion trend, vintage levis are a must-have in the Amsterdam starterpack. Oversized denim is a universal trend, but vintage levis are really stepping up the game.
That being said, it can be challenging to find the perfect pair and fit. My recommendation: head to the thrift store and choose a pair which is too large, but has the right wash. Fit doesn’t matter at this point. Head to your tailor and show them a picture of how you want them to fit, so they can customise it to your body!
7. The ‘Pajama-look’
Queen of the ‘I woke up like this’ vibe. Don’t get it twisted: it’s not an actual pajama, this is a shirt- and pants (or shorts) set, usually striped, and worn as a regular outfit.
This one is for the fashion dare-devils who want to go all the way with blending in (or maybe standing out). Pair it with a wool longline coat or trenchcoat, Bostons, a scarf and an iced matcha for the full effect.
8. Oversized blazer
YSL’s FW22 fashion show birthed the comeback of the extremely oversized blazer. Never been out of style, but this season it’s more in than ever.
Opt for a jet black one with broad shoulders. The bigger, the better! To save a buck, head to your boyfriend’s or dad’s closet.
Don’t forget to pair it with black sunglasses!
That’s all for the Amsterdam ‘it-girl’ starter pack. Some of these trends are also popular in other large cities, and in no way am I stating that any of these trends were started in Amsterdam, but consider this more of a guide to what girls are wearing in Amsterdam right now. Hope you enjoyed it!