Leeuwarden loves vintage

Okay, there is vintage, and then there is vintage. If you just can't get enough of the taste of the past—of heavy leather coats, vibrant fabrics, or old, faded sweaters full of stories—then you certainly shouldn't skip these shops.

De Plek Vintage When you think of vintage, you think of De Plek. Here you will find everything your bargain-hunter's heart desires: cowboy boots, band shirts, overalls, every accessory you could wish for, and a good story. You will find De Plek on Oude Oosterstraat, in the oldest shop building in the city. This 16th-century building has therefore been a popular spot for shoppers for ages, with at least one special visitor. Famous philosopher Descartes stayed in the house with the smooth facade for a period around 1885. Makes you think, doesn't it?

Nozem en de Non If we had a time machine, we’d fly straight to the 70s or 90s for a great outfit. But we don’t have one, so we head to Nozem en de Non, which boasts one of the best vintage collections in the city. In the cozy historic shop on Sint Jacobstraat, the racks are packed with gems, and you’ve also come to the right place for interior items from another era.

Designed for Maria If we had that time machine, we’d step inside, enter any year between 1920 and 1950, and step out at Designed for Maria. This shop has everything your heart desires when it comes to mid-century vintage. Owner Githe has a fondness for rock 'n' roll clothing, and it shows. And, as a bonus: in the same building, you’ll find The House of Vintage. With that name, no further explanation is needed, right?

Regverdig Some people look so great that you just want to shop the clothes right out of their closet. Well, now you can! Regverdig sells the most beautiful items from other people's wardrobes. You can bring in your clothes here, and after a check for their style and freshness, Julia and her colleagues will hang them in the store for you. This way, the collection remains surprising and versatile all year round. At Regverdig, you will find undisputed vintage and your favorite brands, but also the previous collections from major fashion chains.

Madelief The buying and selling system of these clothing stores is a real blessing for both buyer and seller. Furthermore, it is an incredibly sustainable way of shopping. The independent store Madelief calls it a fair shopping alternative. Madelief sells trendy, modern, and high-quality women's clothing from top brands. You make your way through the city's most beautiful historic streets to the store, which is located on Vijzelstraat – a street with a high density of boutiques and therefore certainly worth a visit.

Appel & Ei Where the Kelders and Voorstreek used to be the streets for finding second-hand treasures, the vintage virus is now spreading in all directions. Appel & Ei, just like De Kledingkast, is located on the atmospheric Nieuwestad. So, alongside the major fashion chains and stylish clothing boutiques, you will now find a diverse range of second-hand clothing stores on this shopping main street. Are you not familiar with Appel & Ei yet? Appel & Ei does what the shops mentioned above do, but on a larger scale. Besides Leeuwarden, the store can be found in 21 other cities!