Shopping

Freudian Kicks might just be the coolest boutique Oslo has to offer, stocking French labels such as A.P.C., Surface to air and Carven. But the creative people behind the store also design their own line, which is slightly more affordable. I also like flicking through the racks for the local label F W S S.

Located in the old Posthallen, it’s got that trendy brick vibe going on. But all the while this part of town has been rumoured to take off as the next big thing, it has never seemed to happen. There are a few other cool spots near by, like a Henrik Vibskov boutique, but all in all Freudian Kicks stands out as a lone wolf in a half dead part of town.

The store is divided into a ladies wear section on your left, and a guys section on the right. But you’ll also find some sweet accessories, such as headphones, beanies and wallets that would suit both genders equally well.

If you’re a fashionista looking to burn some money, there’s no better place than Freudian Kicks!

Being 30 in Oslo means your friends are starting to pop out babies like crazy, and amongst the mountain of presents they’re going to get – it feels nice to pick out something special, that might stand out from the pack, and be treasured by babies and parents alike. For picking out something out of the ordinary, there’s no place better than Kool Kidz.

Kool Kidz is as far away from your regular Toys “R” Us as you can get, and hallelujah for that!

The shop sports a small selection of vintage looking toys, and my nephew has fallen head over heels for the classic metal robots. They certainly don’t make toys like that anymore! Having said that, the more modern selection is great too, the quality exceeds what is the norm elsewhere, and the design is both colourful and fun.

Toys are no longer made to last, but to fill a small gap of time before a new (not necessarily better) one comes along. At Kool Kidz, however, you can still find the kind no one wants to throw away. Ever.

Frøken Dianas Salonger is a small gem of a vintage boutique, it oozes charm and femininity, and is the perfect place to find a breezy outfit for the summers many festivals.

In this Markveien shop you’ll find one off earrings and other pieces of jewellery from bygone areas, you’ll also find an amazing selection of frocks and blouses, as well as fun interior items for your apartment. I even bought a guitar and an old school typewriter here.

The shop has just moved location, and more space means more vintage fun. 

If the long Scandinavian summer nights makes you chilly past 22:00, you should look out for the characteristic Scandinavian woollen jumpers, a great souvenir – for ladies and gents alike. Especially since they appear to be all the hipster rage lately.

Located in Markveien, Robot is the sort of store you’ll probably stop by on your typical Saturday day out.

Robot is one the original vintage stores of Grunerløkka, and one of the few that are still around after gentrification increased the rent to an extent where several old favourites were given no choice, but to pack up and close down.

Luckily Robot has survived, because it’s such a fun store. Here you’ll find clothes and accessories for both sexes, although it’s the womens section that takes up most space. There’s a great selection of printed frocks, delicate blouses, colourful sunglasses and elegant brooches. While the guys should definitely check out the vintage printed t-shirts. Perfect for the upcoming summer! The store also stocks a limited selection on new clothing, from labels like Pop and Monkee Genes.

Another great thing about Robot is the continuous rotation of cool tunes coming through the speakers, making the store feel like the real deal!

Velouria Vintage is the hippest vintage store in town, from the immaculate window displays to the collection of eccentric clothing from bygone eras, this is the place for picking up one off pieces your wardrobe didn’t know it was lacking.

I also like to stop by Velouria Vintage for pure inspiration, this is a place that makes fashion fun again, as nothing is taken too seriously. You might find a classic designer piece, but you might also find a nineties neon t-shirt with Minnie Mouse on it. For me, the treasure hunt is half the fun!

Although the store caters to both fashionistas and their boys, it’s worth noting that the guys’ section is considerably smaller. The girls, however, can easily spend a good part of an afternoon trying on everything from clothing to shoes and accessories.

In recent years Grunerløkka has become more and more gentrified, and with high street chains popping up all over the neighbourhood, stores like Velouria Vintage play such an important part in keeping up the spirit of the neighbourhood.