Where to Shop in Gothenburg

If stylish Stockholm brand Acne had a laid-back little brother, it might be Gothenburg brand Velour. Born in 1997 and predominantly a menswear label, Velour sports a casual yet sophisticated modern style in cotton, linen, or wool, and keeps sustainability at heart.

Life on the small island of Käringön is at the heart of the work by designers Emma Landström and Malena Ostwald. Their clothes are often made of soft cotton incorporating prints inspired by the archipelago. They produce clothes for both women and men, and also a lovely collection of children’s clothes—which means the whole family can dress to match!

The classic wooden clogs used to be the only summer shoe you would see in the 1970s. But then they went out of fashion, until the Swedish Hasbeens store resurrected them in 2006. But none of this has bothered Haga Trätoffelfabrik—the clogs manufacturer and seller has been going since 1933! You’ll find classic clogs in many colors, as well as more modern sandal-like versions that go well with summer dresses.

Monki has always been at the forefront when it comes to young and trendy fashion. Founded in Gothenburg, it is now part of the H&M family, but the headquarters is still in central Gothenburg and the focus remains the same. Monki wants its clothes to create new opportunities for the youth of today, and has always taken a progressive position when it comes to discussions on body ideals and gender issues. The women’s sportswear has a bold look that says you have a right to be who you are—and to wear trendy, comfortable clothes at the same time.

This home decor shop has its own unique style. It’s not very cheap, but is always inspirational. The design aesthetic takes a kind of more is more approach—which is unusual for the normally restrained Nordic design tradition. Expect lots of dark colors, bronze and gold, glass paperweights, cushions, vases, and other beautiful objects from brands like Astier de Villatte, Broste Copenhague, Hay, and many more. Around the corner you’ll also find Artilleriet The Kitchen, a shop with everything you ever wanted for your kitchen.

Spinneriet Lindome, south of Gothenburg, is an enchanting destination for a weekend outing. The former spinning factory houses little shops and studios for artists, craftsmen, and designers, so this is heaven if you’re interested in interior decoration and design. Looking for something new for the baby’s room, textiles for your bedroom, or graphic art for your living room? You might find it here—and meet the designers behind the artwork at the same time. The shops are open to the public during weekends, mostly. If you are hungry, the restaurant Lilla Spinneriet serves excellent seasonal lunches.

At the far end of a charming courtyard is this tiny café that is also a record store and a record label. So please don’t hesitate to comment on the music while ordering your coffee and homemade biscuits or enjoying your lunchtime soup. Sometimes Höga Nord arranges concerts with bands from their own label, Höga Nord Records. Expect psychedelic and Swedish prog rock. Sometimes the owners of Höga Nord can be found behind the DJ booth of restaurant Folk, which means unknown and unusual music like Serbian synth rock will be played that night.

This record store is an iconic destination for music aficionados, and also a place where many artists have signings when their record is released. If you are looking for recent releases or vinyls of the more exclusive kind, this is the place to be. The front café with its stage is the first venue many Gothenburg bands ever play.

This is a classic record store with a focus on vinyl and includes a small coffee shop that hosts occasional acoustic concerts. Local bands set up their instruments in a corner and play for the store and café visitors. It’s one of those places that feels like it has always been there.

This is a local favorite and the ultimate hangout for musicians in Gothenburg, a store where you can spend hours talking to owner Bruce Ems and browsing among the Hagström guitars and synthesizers. The name MUG on the sign is short for Musik Utan Gränser—Music Without Borders.