Cleding Raad is known for its mix of casual clothing and outdoor brands, but according to Clement, it’s the unique atmosphere that makes the store truly special. “I’m incredibly chaotic,” he admits with a laugh. “It’s really like a brown café, and that’s just how I am. Sometimes you trip over clothes or shoes, but that’s exactly why men feel at home here.” Clement has intentionally designed the store as a place where men can feel at ease, without the pressure of a ‘perfect’ shopping experience. “Men come to me without their wives — they feel safe. It’s okay to be a little messy, that’s part of the charm.” This relaxed, cozy vibe attracts customers who are looking for more than just clothes — they’re looking for a place where they can be themselves.
What makes Groningen so special for Cleding Raad? Clement is full of praise for the city and its evolving fashion scene. “Groningen is a vibrant city, especially because of the students. They shape fashion — you can see it in their choices and what they wear. They give the city its own style.” The city is not only the largest student city in the Netherlands but also a place where young entrepreneurs feel at home. Clement sees that young people set the trends, even though his own clientele is slightly older. “My customers are often thirty and up, but I definitely notice that students really influence the fashion scene.”
Brand Mix and the Search for New Trends
Clement is always on the lookout for new brands to complement his collection. Recently, he purchased an exclusive line from Oakley, specifically targeted at the Japanese market. “I’m the first in the Netherlands to sell this line. I’m curious to see how it will be received.” In addition to Oakley, he also stocks brands like Patagonia, Peak, and Houdini, emphasizing the unique blend of outdoor and fashion. “It’s important to have connections with the right brands because that makes your store attractive to customers looking for something special,” he explains. While the Previewman trade fair is a fun place for Clement to network, he knows the real discoveries are often found abroad. “You need to build those connections — that’s how you find the truly new brands.”
What stands out in Clement’s approach is his focus on sustainability. He notices that customers are becoming increasingly conscious of what they buy. “The fashion industry is under pressure, but I always try to make sustainable choices. The brands I sell are environmentally friendly and built to last,” Clement says. This aligns with the growing demand for responsibly produced clothing. “Customers who shop here know they’re buying something that will last. That makes all the difference.”
The Future: Combining Online and Offline
With the growth of the online fashion industry, Clement has decided to launch a webshop as well, while keeping his focus on unique brands. “I don’t want to sell mass-produced items, but I do want to offer brands that truly bring something special,” he says. His goal is to further develop Cleding Raad online, without losing the personal atmosphere of the physical store. Finally, Clement shares his intention for the rest of 2025: finding more peace for himself. “I’m always busy, but I really want to make more time for myself. Vlieland is my place to unwind, and I want to go there more often. My schedule is always full, but making time for myself is important.” For Clement, finding a balance between work and personal life is essential to keep his passion for fashion alive.
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