This beauty went straight to the top of my wish list. I mean when you live in Amsterdam you just need a decent bike, right? Actually you need a design bike. I mean you're on your bike every day! You also want your coat and jacket to be functional but NICE! Well this bike is very NICE, stylish as well as made in a sustainable and social way. You can even get the unmissable transport rack and handmade crate with it to do your groceries.

Roetz-Bikes consist of recycled parts and surprisingly, durable materials. Robust city bikes with a retro look! Roetz is a young brand with a mission. The people of Roetz believe that it is possible to reduce waste, and make beautiful robust bikes at the same time.

There are two models, the Roetz road and the Roetz retro. But every bike is unique as they are all made of different frames with a previous life.

And the good news is guys, that you can have a look at this ubercool Roetz bike in our store in Amsterdam as we have one of the Roadsters hanging in our window the coming weeks. Even better news is that the bike is for sale. You could be riding the coolest bike in town!

The end of November the 8 finalists of the The Green Fashion Competition were announced. The Green Fashion Competition inspires entrepreneurs to maintain biodiversity and create catwalk worthy fashion at the same time. There are two categories this year. The first category is for entrepreneurs who already have a company and want to take it to a higher level. And the second category is for young fashion-creatives who want to start their business. In both categories there are 4 finalists.

Studio JUX, L'Herbe Rouge and STAT to the finals

We are so proud that in the first category three of our labels are selected. Studio JUX, L'Herbe Rouge and STAT fashion. These are the jury comments:

Studio JUX

Jury comments: “This brand clearly addresses biodiversity issues in the fashion industry and provides a very good overview of materials used, related certifications and sourcing locations. The designs are modern, and simple but interesting enough not to bore. The playful and colourful designs are striking.” The jury believe that this company can have a true impact on the communication of green labels and a that it has a thorough understanding of biodiversity and sustainability in general, the business plan even included a Life cycle analysis of CO2 emissions. “The business plan reads that the brand means ‘Fun’ in German. We would not be surprised if it means ‘Sustainable’ in Nepalese.”

L’Herbe Rouge

Jury comments: “L’Herbe Rouge shows a clear understanding of the impacts of materials and processes on biodiversity. The designs are both refreshing and sober. Clothes are clean cut and minimalistic and are made of recycled yarn and organic cotton. The pieces are well connected and the brand already has a good track record. The knowledge of biodiversity is translated into the right decisions on design and materials, of which the dyes from organic grapes should definitely be mentioned!”

STAT Divisions

Jury comments: “STAT Division has a very beautiful philosophy and its designs are characterized by Feminine, nautical and sporty elements. Important to note is the use of luxurious fabrics and the avoidance of haberdasheries. The brand has a clear vision of sustainability and biodiversity. The concept of biodiversity is well understood and explained, biodiversity-friendly choices are clear and the plan is easy to read.”

At the finale of The Green Fashion Competition the 8 finalists will show three outfits on the catwalk during Amsterdam Fashion Week 25-29 January 2012. We're very excited!

HIM: Longsleeve by Studio JUX 69,95- Black skinny jeans by Monkee Genes 79,95- Blue bag by Studio JUX 99,95 - Scarf by Studio JUX 59,95 HER: Black dress by Studio JUX 89,95- Chunky cardigan by Studio JUX 89,95- Blue bag by Studio JUX 99,95 - Pumps by Camilla Norrback HER: Dress by L'Herbe Rouge - Legging by Alternative - Wedgeheels by Camilla Norrback 275,00 HIM: Jumper by L'Herbe Rouge 129,95- Jeans by Monkee Genes 79,95 - Scarf by Komodo 35,00 LEFT: Cardigan by Camilla Norrback 159,95- Longsleeve by Alchemist 59,95- Legging by Alchemist 69,95 - Pumps by Camilla Norrback 180,- RIGHT: Top by Camilla Norrback 129,95- Black skinny jeans by Monkee Genes 79,95- Black brogues by Beyond Skin 160,00 BOTH: scarf by Komodo LEFT: Cardigan blue by Knowledge 129,95- White v-neck by Armedangels 29,95- Chino grey by Knowledge 119,95- Shoes by Veja 84,95- Backpack by Knowledge 119,95 RIGHT: Green jumper by Alternative 54,95 - Skinny jeans by Monkee Genes - Shoes by Veja 84,95- Backpack by Knowledge 119,95

Berlin is the place to be these days when you are after an inspiring city trip. And it's not hard to find sustainable addresses here, as Berlin has the best (still affordable) vintage, coolest markets and some great eco fashion stores. And the best of all is that on every street corner there are cozy and well styled places and cafes to hang out and enjoy organic drinks, the most delicious homemade cakes and other fresh food.

Mitte and Prenz Lauerberg

You can spend days in the areas Mitte, with all it's lovely and unique boutiques, and the more raw Prenz Lauerberg, only. Here's just a few tips. But trust me there's much more to discover in these Berlin areas, and beyond! The best way to discover Berlin is by bike.

Lots of Vintage

The Humana vintage stores don't look overly tempting but the offer certainly is. From 50's to 80's styling and for affordable vintage prices. Every day the stores are restocked and none of the items stay in store longer than 4 weeks. Especially the Humana shop at Prenzlauer Berg is highly recommended. This outlet stocks the most funky items.
Made in Berlin offers 3 stories first class vintage fashion from 30's to 90's styling for men and women on the Friedrichstr. 114A.

Markets

Straße des 17. Juni (Flea market)
This is Berlin's best-known and classiest outdoor market. Check out this market for antiques and handicrafts, including furniture, jewelry, pictures and clothes. Sat. / Sun. 10am - 5pm.
Flea Market Arkonaplatz
A haven for fans of Sixties and Seventies items in Berlin's Mitte district. Sundays only, 10am - 5pm. And cute little cafes with absolutely delicious homemade cakes all around, yummie!

Drinks and bites

We just loved St Oberholz. Two flours full of youngsters mostly with their laptops + Lots, no loads of delicious food and drinks, organic and freshly made = a very relaxed atmosphere. And this is just one of many more relaxed hang out places in Berlin!

MORE BERLIN HIGHLIGHTS

A couple of weeks ago we organized a photoshoot in the ‘Westerliefde’ with the team of Charlie + Mary and four models to show you the beautiful brands we have in our collection. Typical is the style of Charlie + Mary with a sense of humor. We created new visuals for the Charlie + Mary conceptstore and for Charlie + Mary's agency. And also a bit to celebrate that we are now also the agent for the beautiful Danish brand Underprotection. Underprotection creates eco-friendly underwear for men and women. They want to make a difference by giving their customers the possibility to combine ethics and aesthetics when buying underwear.

Hair and make-up: www.dikpeeters.nl, Mariska Rietveld | Models: Sjoerd and Lonneke