Property Of… Flagship

August 11th, 2010 | Posted in: fashion, travel

After yesterdays succesfull give-away, I’ll continue on the theme bags today. No freebies today though… But a brand that creates useful, well-made and considered bags will catch my attention and has to be shared, thats for sure. That’s why I was happily surprised to see that a flagship store of bag designers Property Of… opened in my hometown of Amsterdam recently.

The brand was founded by cafe owners Peter Teo & Richard Chamberlainin in 2006. That explains why the store still looks like an old cafe, and why they serve you with some great coffee while browsing the amazing collection.

Besides the understated, practical and tough bags (most of them made out of waxed cotton or canvas and fine leather) they have a nice selection of magazines and books that suit the brand philosophy complimented with other products that are made with similar care and passion.

A welcome addition to my ‘to visit regularly’ list.

Property of…
Herenstraat 2, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Images via Cool Hunting.

Foto Locchi Firenze

June 23rd, 2009 | Posted in: fashion, marketing

In Florence I bumped into Foto Locchi. Drawn in by the large (and cheap!!) vintage sunglasses collection I wandered into one of the coolest optic stores I’ve ever been. Founded in 1924 this store is must for every sunglasses lover out there. Not that the decoration was that great, but the sheer passion and expertise with which the personnel helps you there make it a great shopping experience. And the great collection of course. Let the elderly lady pick a pair of glasses for you, and you will not be disappointed. Every one of her picks is a hit. Besides that, she is not afraid to keep you from buying a pair which doesn’t suit you.

I wish more stores where this passionate about their products. This still is the best marketing ever: Passion for your business. Something you find in Italy more than anywhere else.

Be sure to drop by there when you are around!