Amsterdam-based sustainable stores you need to check out
Amsterdam's shopping scene has seen a significant change as we have become more conscious about the environment. As a result, we see a rise of many sustainable stores that are committed to being environmentally responsible. These stores incorporate ethical practices and encourage mindful consumption. From second-hand luxury items to sneakers made from pineapple and sustainable clothing libraries, this article’s as green as it can get.
Otrium
Shoppers can access hundreds of fashion outlet stores all in one place at Otrium. The goal of this online store is to bring together collections from high-end brands such as Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Karl Lagerfeld, and more, which would normally remain unsold. The best bit: all pieces are up to 75% off! That sounds like a sustainable mission to us!
Renoon
From ethically produced sneakers to vegan backpacks and recycled swimwear, Renoon’s app connects shoppers to eco-conscious brands - including pre-owned, reworked, and rented clothes. Founded in 2020, this handy shopping platform will not necessarily sell you something specific, but rightfully guide you towards making responsible choices before you buy.
Project Cece
With more than 40,000 products, Project Cece showcases collections from ethical fashion retailers and fair trade designers all in one place. Shoppers can not only filter by certificates and labels but also by types of clothing, price range, and colour - just like any other online marketplace.
The Next Closet
Founded in 2013, The Next Closet is your one-stop-shop for buying and selling second-hand designer garments. It links up with vintage boutiques and well-known sellers to stock clothing for fashion lovers, so you don’t need to rifle through the bargain rails yourself. High-end brands might include Gucci, Prada, Christian Dior, and more. Not only do you get a good deal on your pre-loved items, but you are also doing the environment a favour.
Thegreenlabels
Founded by Claudia Angeli, Thegreenlabels has a mission to reduce waste and make labelling more transparent for sustainably conscious shoppers. Each product in their carefully curated range carries informative labels - for instance, ‘non-toxic’, ‘made in Europe’ or ‘waste reduction’. Check out their high-quality sustainable products, ranging from tops, leggings, dresses at accessible prices.
Lena Library
The Netherlands’ first clothing library Lena (founded in 2014), has grown to be a go-to solution for the sustainably minded and fashion conscious. This Amsterdam-based store and online library allows shoppers borrow clothes like books, meaning you can always wear something new without contributing to the environmentally destructive fast fashion industry. Its all about sharing, instead of buying new!
Green Sneaker Store
As the first sneaker store in the Netherlands where all products are 100% animal-friendly (leather-free, biobased, and recycled) Green Sneaker Store already holds a unique niche. Shoppers can read about the special materials from which the items are made: apples, cacti, but also algae and PET bottles. Together with their Italian partner ACBC, they also collaborate with brands such as Alexander Smith and Love Moschino. Don't forget to take your old or broken sneakers with you when you go shopping. They are given a new lease of life as building material for playgrounds.
Fashion for Good
If you’re in need of some inspiration before you buy, check out Fashion for Good Museum’s changing exhibitions about new developments in textiles and the fashion industry. The aim of their programme is to help you look at fashion and sustainability differently - whether that’s unexpected facts and new perspectives on the clothes you wear or showcasing new materials and innovative designers. Keep an eye out for special events like upcycling workshops or clothes swaps.
Fashian
This second-hand designer clothing store in Amsterdam brings you great quality pieces for great prices, in the most sustainable way. Fashian offers many pre-loved luxurious items for both men and women, that are sold for much less than their original price. Gucci, Versace, and Christian Dior are some examples of the large selection they have online and in-store.
De Ruilhoek
De Ruilhoek is another notable second-hand store where you can pick up designer items for a fraction of the original price, while also being responsible towards the environment. In their densely-packed rails, you’re just as likely to score pieces from high-end brands, like Off-White and Just Cavalli, as you are a great second-hand piece from mainstream stores like Zara. You can also sell your pre-loved items to earn store credit.
