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Amsterdam is spring’s ideal city break. The tulips and blossom are in full bloom, and the chill that whips the canals in winter eases. When it comes to style, the local uniform hinges on functionality combined with low-key elegance. Practicality is key; after all, this is a city where most get around by bike.
The sartorial energy in Amsterdam is UNDERSTATED WITH JOLTS OF COLOUR. It’s creative and experimental, but fuss-free. When I was there last year, everyone was wearing a VIBRANT BEANIE HAT, an easy way of introducing brights to an outfit. Pack your favourite LAYERING PIECES, fine roll necks or long-sleeve tops that can be worn under A KNIT VEST or A SLOUCHY RUGBY SHIRT. If you want to assimilate, then bring only LOOSE-FIT JEANS; a great barrel or wide-leg should do the trick. CLEAN LINES are also popular here, which is why Arket’s sculptural black top is such a great buy. Don’t forget your sunglasses either; you’ll need them for drinks outside in the sunshine.Â
Amsterdam is great for shopping, especially vintage. Waterlooplein Market, the oldest flea market in the Netherlands, hosts 300 stalls, spanning clothing, homeware and books. Rumors is also a cult favourite, with two shops on the same block. I love Marie-Stella-Maris, a Dutch social enterprise that sells the most beautifully scented fragrances and skincare products. For sustainably-minded souvenirs, head to Sukha, a zen boutique offering well-made ethical goods. If you only have time to explore one shopping district, head to the picturesque De 9 Straatjes, which is full of independent stores on canal-lined streets.Â
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Lead image: Nobody’s Child
Ella Alexander is Citizen Femme’s fashion features editor. She started her career at the Evening Standard, and has since held senior editorial roles at Vogue, The Independent and Harper’s Bazaar, where she remains a contributing editor. She also writes for The Telegraph, Sunday Times Style, Service95 and CNN. She is an author, having co-written Dame Zandra Rhodes’ memoir, Iconic: My Life In Fashion In 50 Objects, published by Transworld in July 2024. Her favourite travel destination is Catania, Sicily’s second city.
