After two decades of business, this avant-garde outpost is still going strong. Initially conceived as a graduate school art project by co-owners, Hans Démoed and Geert de Rooij, this “Kingdom of Cool” continues to outshine the competition. A one-stop-shop for eclectic clothing, home décor and cosmetics, it’s the hippie-chic, electric-hued frocks you’ll flip for (think one-of-a-kind hand-printed and hand-died prints inspired by Baroque and Bauhaus). Can’t find what you came for? Splurge on a custom-made creation from shabby chic furniture, curtains, bedding, lamps, leather jackets to wine glasses. The friendly staff even spruces up clients’ home and office spaces.

  Photography © Michael Thieberg

Marlies Dekkers is a Dutch designer who’s M.O. is simple: to boost the butts and bosoms of women around the world. Step inside her “bust-ling” Amsterdam boutique and you’ll find an eye-catching array of provocative panties, sexy garters and silky undergarments surrounded by hypnotic lighting, ruby red carpets, midnight black furniture and scintillating chandeliers. Happen to bring along your sweetie? Send him to the open-concept boudoir by the back for a titillating experience unlike any other.

  Photography © Marlies Dekkers

DISTRICT: THE JORDAAN

This artsy area is brimming with avant-garde shops, street-side cafés, groovy galleries and low-key bars, all nestled on narrow, coble-stoned streets named after local flowers. 

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  Photography © Michael Thieberg