Market Day in Bruges

Having finished my stroll through the farmers’ market in Bruges’ Grote Markt – Market Square – it was time to move on to the surrounding shops. It was opening time as I approached my first – the lovely Home Linen. The proprietress was completing her store-opening tasks as I entered, putting items on display outside to attract customers. As I was her first of the day, I had the place to myself while she wrapped up her chores.

As the name suggests, this shop specializes in beautiful, locally handmade, linens for the home. I am a sucker for white linen so I felt like a kid in a candy shop here. The ground floor offered a beautiful array of personal and table linens; everything from infants’ dresses and women’s nighties to damask tea towels and embroidered tablecloths.After browsing this floor for a bit, I was further delighted to discover that they had a second level nestled in the basement. Here I found a beautiful display of bed linens and other accessories for the home such as elegant, gold-rimmed, taupe china and shining, silver, egg cups and butter dishes.

I loved their sensibility: clean lines, woven baskets and white-washed walls accented with unusual touches like the stuffed dear-head mounted over the bed. It all gave a sophisticated Scandinavian feel; very calm and soothing.

I love practical souvenirs so this was the perfect spot for me to pick up a few mementos. With the large selection and reasonable prices, it was difficult to choose. However, I did manage to narrow it down to a sweet little tablecloth, two lovely pale blue, damask tea towels and a cotton nightie. Now, each time I use them, I will be reminded of my wonderful visit to Bruges and this charming boutique.