I have been in this industry for over a quarter of a century and one of the most valuable lessons I've learned is, "follow your instincts".

When I opened Store Du Nord in the late Summer of 2019, I never imagined that I'd be there where I am now: a space that revolves around thoughtful craftsmanship, respectful connections with makers and visitors and a deep projection of my ongoing thoughts translated into garments, objects and print.

Of course there's always been the idea and desire to build something a-typical in terms of a retail store. High streets are occupied with mediocre and mainstream bulk, and the world wide web is more and more Pandora's box.

When I started out in 2019, my views were more on finding balance between a very niche craftsmanship on the one side, and accessible mid-range brands on the other. Within the first month of opening, I realized that that was not what I was needing in my own (ad)venture. Over time, Store Du Nord grew more and more into a collective of like-minded makers, designers and customers. I intensified my search for lost garments and techniques, meeting specialized makers from around the world and connecting with them on a more personal level before taking the plunge business-wise. At the same time, not neglecting the accessibility of my store by continuously seeking timeless garments at a fair price point, to sit alongside the very specific (or perhaps, niche) garments, objects and print that I want to share with the world.

Writing this updated version of "About Du Nord", I cannot help but look back and realize that although the journey has been very rocky and challenging, I also realize I'm not even halfway there where I want to be. In an industry and consumer world so deeply rotten to the core, I continue to strive to find the very best within my means and within my values. A tribute to craft, with respect for mankind and nature.

Whether it is the boundary-pushing engineering by Daniel Gu of MotivMfg., the award-winning design innovations achieved by Norwegian Rain, or the slow ethos of San Francisco-based Evan Kinori, all the way to the evergreens of British icon Barbour and the calm palette of Hansen Garments. All of them, all of the makers I work with, sit at a side of the spectrum that I cherish, appreciate and respect.

It is a true joy and privilege to be able to showcase their work in a thoughtful curation at Store Du Nord.

A place to slow down, to learn and discuss, and to do better.

Thank you for your ongoing support. I've only just begun. Stay inspired!

Jeroen.