Traveling with your sweetheart can become quite a challenge in a city full of wonderful shops and nice boutiques. In the neighborhood called De Negen Straatjes (Nine Little Streets), a much beloved shopping area in the centre of Amsterdam, you’ll find no mainstream stores but all highly individual shops. To prevent a quarrel that would spoil the trip, go for JoJo on Huidenstraat 23 right in the middle of De Negen Straatjes.

JoJo

My darling once went there and bought (without me) a cashmere coat that made him look middle aged. Since they don’t allow returns, we had a high amount of credit to spend and soon became regulars. Eventually he bought a gorgeous suit there and of course we got married.

JoJo

For anyone who is always looking for a Canali shirt or a suit from Zegna but unable to afford it, you’ll find it at JOJO for a bargain if you are lucky enough. In addition to selling exclusive Italian brands, there are English shoes and hats, vintage shirts, silk or cashmere socks and different kinds of scarves - all  the bits and pieces of a gentleman’s wardrobe are part of their stock.

Laura Dols

Of course you should peep into Laura Dols on Wolvenstraat 7 because it’s always fun to dress up like a movie star, and don’t bother if you’ve forgotten your toothbrush - De Witte Tandenwinkel on Runstraat 5 will fullfill your kinkiest wishes concerning dental hygiene. For me, ever since Freelance left the city, Antonia By Yvette (Gasthuismolensteeg 16-18) is the best place for shoes. They sell for instance Sonia Rykiel, Spanish designers and have their own in-house label.