Istedgade – Cph V
The mentioning of Istedgade is sometimes followed by advice such as “it’s a dodgy place” or simply “I wouldn’t go there”. And to be fair, when you exit Central Station on to Istedgade, you might be met by a drug dealer or two. But if you’re brave enough to venture on, past the graphic displays in the erotic lifestyle stores and the occasional lady of the night, you’ll find yourself in an entirely different world. The other end of Istedgade has been transformed from a gangster’s paradise into a hipster’s one, packed with exotic restaurants, trendy cafes and, most importantly, hip designer stores.

Birna
Birna is a store that carries design by the Icelandic designer Birna. All female fashionistas of Vesterbro will have stepped into this store at least once and wished they could buy every single item. The design is feminine yet functional, and this winter, the store is filled with chunky knits and fabulous dresses.
Istedgade 99, open Mon-Fri 11:00-18:00, Sat 10:00-16:00; www.birnashop.net

aMouschka & friends
This store may technically not be on Istedgade, but just off Istedgade you will find aMouschka & friends, an ethical accessories store. Most of the brightly coloured statement jewellery is aMouschka’s own design, but she complements her collection with a small selection of other designers’ work (hence the ‘& friends’ in the name).
Oehlenschlægersgade 41; open Thu 10:30-18:00, Fri 10:30-19:00, Sat 10:30-16:00; www.amouschka.dk

Aspects
Dear gentleman readers, you have not been forgotten and this store promises to bring equal amount of joy to both sexes! Crammed into a room no bigger than your average bedroom, this store has an astonishing selection of aesthetically pleasing items, ranging from quirky printed t-shirts to quality leather bags to pretty dresses, not to mention the owner Anette Stemann’s own design. The items are reasonably priced, making it possible for everyone to find something to their taste and budget.
Istedgade 87; open Mon-Fri 11:00-18:00, Fri 11:00-19:00, Sat 10:00-15:00

Girlie Hurly
Girlie Hurly is one of those stores that’s simply always fun to step into. The store carries a range of fun and quirky items that will immediately revive your grey everyday with a splash of colour. Sleek lamps that would look at home in BoBedre, unique jewellery by up-and-coming designers and Orla Kiely’s exclusive kitchenware design; it’s all here!
Istedgade 99; open Mon-Thu 11:00-17:30, Fri 11:00-18:00, Sat 10:00-15:00; www.girliehurly.dk