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wItH LoVe fROm… AMsTeRdaM
Our Fashion & Content Director takes you through her holiday wardrobe, and highlights the best spots in town.
Words by Flora Macdonald Johnston
Packing is always tricky, and I think even more so when going to sunny destinations. One moment it could be tropical thunder, the next blustering beach winds followed by the most perfect rooftop dinner while watching the sunset. The packing ‘knack’ is taking items that work just as well on their own, as when styled with your other favourite holiday pieces.
So, to kick off the launch of Holiday Hub, our newest summer campaign celebrating the best in holiday fashion, here’s my helpful guide and the very first of our franchise With Love From… *drum roll - Amsterdam! And yes, it includes my top tips on where to stay, eat, and visit – naturally. Genieten van!
WHERE TO STAY: THE PULITZER HOTEL
The Pulitzer is by far the best place to stay while visiting the canal-crossed streets of Amsterdam. Situated in the old part of the historic city, it spreads over 25 canalside houses. The hotel boasts chic interiors (which include a Pulitzer-winning book corner where guests can take a seat and relax) and all the luxuries one could need for a very pleasant stay indeed.
However, the real winner at the Pulitzer is the glorious summer gardens. Finding terraces in Amsterdam in nigh on impossible, so it’s a treat to visit and have a glass of champagne after visiting the Van Gogh museum, or indeed, taking a trip down the canal in the Pulitzer’s historic (and rather famous) boat, which ferried Winston Churchill himself in 1946.
'thE pAckINg ‘KnAcK’ is TaKiNG itEmS tHaT wORk jUsT as weLL On THeiR Own, As wHeN sTyLeD wiTH yoUR OtHeR faVOuRiTe HoLiDay pIeCes.'
WHERE TO EAT: JANZ
When it comes to holidays, you often fall into two camps – there are those who go to destinations to try food, and those who choose destinations for, well, the destination. I am the former, and finally managed to book myself a table at the beautiful Janz restaurant. Decorated beautifully with lots of copper adornment, sumptuous – but incredibly light – dishes of crab and apple toast, grilled turbot and cheese biterballen (traditional dutch croquettes).
Reestraat 8, 1016 DN Amsterdam, Netherlands
WHAT TO WEAR WHEN:
TAKING A BOAT TRIP
I had to wear Gül Hürgel’s jumpsuit with its kitsch craft style stitching – Amsterdam is the home of miniature craftsmanship, after all. In all honesty, you could wear this jumpsuit for any occasion. I chose trainers and sunglasses for the boat, but it would look just as good with towering platform heels.
Heart Embroidered Jumpsuit
Rectangular Acetate Sunglasses
Cabersa Sandals
Porter Bag
GOING OUT FOR DINNER
A good blazer is the ultimate accoutrement for a city dinner, and can be styled easily with anything from floaty trousers to skirts and dresses. AREA’s tailored jacket, with its nipped-in waist and crystal buckles, brings the perfect amount of colour and bling whilst also being incredibly flattering.
Crystal Buckle Blazer
High Waist Sable Trousers
Bara Mini Shoulder Bag
Crystal Flower Cherry Drop Earrings
EXPLORING AND VISITING COFFEE SHOPS
If you’re going to spend hours visiting Amsterdam's numerous museums, floating flower market and traditional cookie shops, you need to be comfortable. I chose this Rodarte slip dress due to its easy nature. It can be worn alone with trainers, but pairs just as nicely when styled with a jumper over shoulders.
Mushroom Printed Silk Slip Dress
Mushroom Embroidered Bomber Jacket
Rocket Tie Dye Mushroom T-Shirt
Crystal Butterfly Jeans