1st January 2015 The enthusiastic crowd jostled for shoulder space, while enjoying the music and festive atmosphere. The occasion was the opening of the Suzy Glam Boutique in Amsterdam – a cause for celebration for the Swiss born-Netherlands based designer. The boutique is the culmination of months of work by Susanne Klemm and her partner Etienne Frederiks. “We’ve done everything ourselves,” said Frederiks, “and that includes all the electrical work and painting, and Susanne did the design. The previous owner of this shop – which was a sport shop specialist with lots of fishing items – really didn’t do anything to the space for probably forty years. It’s been a lot of work, but we enjoy it.”
The shop location is close to the Museum District, and the famed Concertgebouw, and easily reached by Amsterdam’s convenient and marvellous trams. The shop interior is refined and uncluttered – just like the exquisite eyewear designs by Susanne Klemm. Walls are pristine white – a perfect backdrop for the collection. The previous shop owner left his fine wood shelving and glass-fronted cases, which turn out to be ideal for eyewear display and stock.
It is just two years since Suzy Glam was launched, and her frames are now sold internationally. Suzy Glam was awarded Gold in The Hall of Frames/Eyestylist Newcomer Award in 2013. The opening night showcased the SG collection and the guest collection of Paulino Spectacles from Portugal, with designer Ramiro Paulino present.
The event was an exhilarating occasion for the presentations of exciting collections. Eyestylist wishes Susanne Klemm and Etienne Frederiks every success with their new boutique. Along with Van Gogh and The Rijksmuseum on your Amsterdam to do list, remember to include Suzy Glam Boutique! Roelof Hartstraat 32 1071 VK Amsterdam www.suzyglam.com JG
Photos: Photo of Susanne Klemm, Ramior Paulino and Etienne Frederiks by Dervin Curiel All other images by Dick Kikstra