Belgium, a country that is hidden between Holland and France. A country that owns two languages and is known for its delicious Belgian chocolates. But there's more.. The fashion capital of Belgium is definitely Antwerp. Only a 30 minutes drive from Holland and 2 hours from France, this city provides the best hidden designers, boutiques and upcoming talents.
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| A lunch break with a 'Laurent Perrier' view.. We love bubbles.. |
The tiny, cosy streets and little restaurants are worth being mentioned as well. The old and historical buildings makes this city a definite must see! What can't be missed, is the main shopping street 'Meir'. Big chain stores have found their way into the crowded street and are all located in this area. Even Forever 21, the American chain of clothing stores have opened their first amazingly bog store in Antwerp. This concept is a must-go for every fashionista. The well organised departments of the store are divided into different concepts of style. For a really affordable price i would be able to buy a whole Spring wardrobe here, without looking a bit as 'one of a kind'
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| Just an impression of the Forever 21 flagship store, Antwerp (Photo: Nieuwsblad.be) |
You could picture forever 21 as a mix between H&M and Primark. I see a lot of potential for yet another chains of stores that, if you like it or not, are slowly but rough taking over the city-streets. Because of this stores, little boutiques are living a hard life at the moment, since a large number of average people do not want to spend a lot of money on trendy clothes. They rather spend it on vacations, gadgets etc.. It's a pity!
Gallery 2020, a Belgian trade fair for fashion is also expanding trough the years. Still, in comparison with the big fairs in Amsterdam, Barcelona and Paris, this looks like the most smallest fair you have ever been.. But, it gives the atmosphere a personal and exclusive touch. Big fashion brands are represented next to small, potential and new designers.. Some of them are known in Belgium for many years, but are trying to move abroad and take the big step to become just as big and succesfull as the brands they look up to..
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