Shopping in Bergen: The clothes are like works of art in a gallery

Our guide takes you through Bergen's shopping streets, from exclusive tailoring to must-have perfume and Norwegian woollen clothing.  

"The shop is a nice mix of old memories and new memories. This is a place where we thrive, a place designed for customers to thrive, into which we've put our clothes," says designer T-Michael. 

He is behind one of Bergen's most famous clothing shops, T-Michael & Norwegian Rain,  the latter of which is a luxury rainwear brand that he put on the fashion map together with Alexander Helle. 

From Bergen to Tokyo 

In the middle of Bergen city centre lies a shop that no visitors should miss. Here, you will find everything from functional and stylish rainwear to tailoring and accessories, including suits, shirts, kimonos, glasses, and bags. T-Michael & Norwegian Rain are well known in the Norwegian design community, and also have locations in both Tokyo, Paris and Oslo.   

"The most important thing for us is that customers are happy when they enter our shop. They should not feel any pressure to buy something but rather experience our clothes as one experiences art in a gallery or museum. You should be inspired by the clothes – only then will you want to buy something," says T-Michael. 

He smiles, leans back in his leather chair and takes a sip from his ceramic coffee cup. 

The T-Michael experience 

The shop extends over two floors and is filled with coffee table books, pictures, and tidy clothing racks lined with fine tailoring. And that's exactly the whole point when you visit the shop – you should experience a different kind of shopping and let your eye rest on things that inspire you. 

"Once you've absorbed the feeling here, you might try on the clothes, and then you'll have a fantastic experience of cut, quality and style. 

T-Michael & Norwegian Rain is three minutes away from the Fish Market, and the designer feels that the short distance between all the shops and restaurants is what makes shopping in Bergen so special. 

"It's so nice that Bergen is compact, everything is really within walking distance. You can criss-cross it within 15-20 minutes," says Alexander. 

Here are the top 5 shops to visit in Bergen city centre:  

 1. T-Michael – quality design whatever the weather  

Exquisite tailoring, and exclusive and timeless outfits. Explore suits, kimonos, bags, shirts and accessories. And most importantly: it's one of Bergen's coolest shops - stop by for inspiration and creativity. 

Address: Christian Michelsensg gt 1

2. Oleana – stay warm in Norwegian knitwear  

This shop is famous for its exclusive knitwear and features a selection of sweaters, shawls, accessories, and Norwegian handicraft tradition. 

Address: Strandkaien 2A

3. Scabal – for the brand conscious  

High-quality women's and men's clothing by well-known labels, including brands such as Anine Bing, Arnie Says, Mulberry, J.Lindeberg, and Diemme. Bring home everything from cashmere and wool to silk. The shop is known for its good service and luxurious atmosphere. 

Address: Chr. Michelsens Gate 2B

4. Illum Bolighus – Norwegian souvenirs for your suitcase  

This shop is chock full of Norwegian and international design pieces, including modern furniture, interior products, lighting, textiles, and much more all set in a cool and well-organized atmosphere. 

Address: Strandgaten 20