Diagonally across from City Hall on the Markt in Gouda’s historic center lies Korte Groenendaal, with Lange Groenendaal just a short distance further on. This shopping street is renowned far and wide for its quirky shops and their unique offerings. It features a colorful mix of everything from natural foods and fine delicacies from around the world to old books, distinctive children’s clothing, wooden toys, and much more. In such a distinctive setting, there is room for Karakter.
Karakter strives for sustainability, for a better and fairer world. We therefore try to enhance our collection as much as possible with brands that share this same vision.
For example, you’ll find:
Hand-knitted sweaters and cardigans from Inti Knitwear, distinctive men’s clothing made from beautiful fabrics by ‘Knowledge Cotton’, jeans and collections from Kuyichi and Nudie Jeans, beautiful, colorful dresses made from organic cotton by ‘Skunk Funk’, Sustainable shoes from the French brand Veja and the Spanish brand Neosens.
Cus, Inti Knitwear, Armed Angels, Thinking Mu, and the other brands are also committed to a better world. Beautiful clothing, on the outside, but also on the inside!
The idea for Karakter came about when Nienke moved from Zwolle to Rotterdam: she wanted to create her “own little world” in the big, bustling city. In 2003, Nienke got the opportunity, and Karakter was born. Today, Gouda is the city with Karakter.
First and foremost, Karakter wants to inspire you with its collection. But it also wants to make you feel enthusiastic, comfortable being yourself, exuberant, or innovative in your clothes, so that they become a part of you.
We are all thrilled to have the opportunity to dress you in a way that reflects your unique personality!