“It's pretty cool that Oslo is about to become a new shopping destination internationally. That has basically never happened before.”
Ida Elise Eide Einarsdóttir
Fashion Editor, KK and KK.no
The best shopping in Oslo
A guide by Fashion Editor, Ida Elise Eide Einarsdóttir
“This is a completely new part of Oslo, with everything you need in terms of shopping, culture and places to eat, it's in a way a new hot spot. And I think the best thing is that there is a lot of Norwegian fashion.”
There are new buildings everywhere, in the fanciest shapes and materials.
Oslobukta is a new and fresh cocktail of everything from offices, residential building, small cafés, bars, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Not to mention the iconic Opera House and the new MUNCH museum.
And last but not least...
...fashion stores, packed with Norwegian design!
Ida points out two must-sees in the area: Envelope 1976 and Holzweiler.
“One of the things I love about many new Norwegian brands, like Envelope1976, is their focus on sustainability. Both in the clothes themselves, but also the furniture and the premises used to display them.”
Some stores also have a little extra touch. Holzweiler Platz, designed by famous Norwegian architects Snøhetta, has combined a clothing store with a café and restaurant, inviting customers to take part in a different kind of shopping experience.
“I think the move they've made here with this combination is very innovative. This is also something that makes this brand more than just a brand — it's actually the first full-blown Norwegian fashion house. Watch out for this brand in the future!”
Now, let's check out another hip and very different shopping area in Oslo, Grünerløkka! Just jump on a tram, grab a city bike, or stroll for about 30 minutes.
Grünerløkka, or "Løkka" in the vernacular, is a much older area than Oslobukta, and has an exciting history and a lot of soul.
Stroll around the pedestrian streets and make sure to have enough time to check out all the cute little stores. There is something for everyone here, whether you are looking for the hippest up-and-coming brands...
...or surprise treasures owned by others before you!
“Velouria Vintage is almost an institution here in Grünerløkka, being one of the oldest vintage shops in the city. Here, you can really bag a great find if you are lucky, since the selection is thoughtfully curated by the owner, Åsa!”
In case you wondered, Grünerløkka is also the perfect lunch spot!
With full bellies and new energy, we are heading towards the last shopping area for today. But first – we have to visit this little tropical spot in the heart of Løkka, called Luck...
“Luck is a little gem, and for me the epitome of what Grünerløkka should be. A well-curated mix of new, unique brands of clothes and items, together with these huge living room plants (that are also for sale) makes a visit here an experience in itself!”
Now, let's bring our shopping bags with us and head to Ida's last shopping tip of the day, the city centre and Oslo's high street, Karl Johan.
“Earlier, Karl Johan was a place to avoid, with souvenir shops and chain stores. Today, it has finally become the grand boulevard it should be.”
There are now many different contemporary Scandinavian fashion stores located side by side in the side streets. One of these is Livid.
“Livid is a very up-and-coming brand that sells both new clothes and vintage. They also repair clothes in their workshop department in Grünerløkka.”
Want more shopping tips than just clothes?
No worries, last but not the least on Ida's list today is the jewellery store Tom Wood. Located just a few blocks away.
Do you want to find some extra good bargains? Make sure to visit the Oslo Fashion Outlet in Vestby, just a 40-minute ride outside Oslo.
There is also lots of good shopping in other places in Norway. Don't miss it!
Wondering what treasures await you in Oslo?