Beloved things from the north
Vintage shopping is like a wonderful journey into the past, where every piece tells its own story. In a world that is spinning ever faster, second-hand treasures provide a moment of pause – they are full of character. Vintage is a statement of style awareness and individuality. There are now several stores and online boutiques in Lübeck that set an example for conscious consumption with their work.
One of these is Loppis at Große Burgstraße 25. For the Lübeck ZWISCHENZEILEN over a cup of coffee, owner Daria Schulz tells me how a hobby turned into a business to which she and her partner and Loppis partner Frank devote almost all their time and love.
The magic of a new beginning
Daria and Frank have fulfilled a dream with their second-hand store. They originally come from completely different professional backgrounds: Daria is a music therapist and Frank worked for a well-known shipping company in Lübeck for a long time. The idea of trying something new and reinventing themselves in mid-life and setting up their own business with Scandinavian vintage fashion and decorative items did not come overnight. It matured steadily and was nurtured in Sweden in particular, where the couple regularly experienced the flea market culture there. Loppis is the Swedish term for flea market. And they are very popular in Sweden. At weekends in particular, whole families are drawn to markets, which often take place in barns and garages, but also outdoors in gardens or meadows. People enjoy a coffee or two – another true passion in Sweden – rummage around in a relaxed manner for things that sometimes only delight their hearts and rejoice at a chance find.
The whole world is full of things and there’s a crying need for someone to find them .”
Astrid Lindgren
Follow your heart
The premises in Grosse Burgstrasse were another such chance find that immediately felt right. “Our gut feeling told us that this was the right place for us,” Daria recalls. There are streets in the old town that are frequented by far more strolling people. But Große Burgstraße exuded something very special. And their success proves them right: since opening in May 2024, the store has established itself and enjoys a growing clientele and an appreciative neighborhood. The latter is extremely important to the couple. They value the community in the street and already feel like they really belong there. We were also there for the Lübeck ZWISCHENZEILEN in this part of the Old Town.
Lagom: The perfect balance
The Scandinavian lifestyle includes the principle of *Lagom*. This Swedish term means “not too much and not too little” or “just enough” and describes a life in balance with a focus on a balanced and sustainable lifestyle. It is closely linked to the values and traditions of our northern neighbors. Mindful interaction with others, the ability to listen well and not complaining all the time are also part of this impressive attitude.
Daria could therefore be Swedish. She also radiates this warm-hearted serenity. Everyone should find something at Loppis and be able to look and try at their leisure. “It’s also a matter close to our hearts to offer quality at affordable prices,” says Daria. The range includes high-quality Scandinavian labels such as noa noa and gudrun sjöden. However, Loppis fans also appreciate the hand-picked decorative objects such as ceramics, candle holders and wooden objects for the kitchen, which are easy on the wallet. There is also a cooperation with“Deernskram“. Behind this name are two women who organize flea market events for second-hand fashion and accessories in Lübeck and the surrounding area. Exceptional pieces are now permanently presented at Loppis, which makes the ever-growing Deernskram community very happy.
The art of discovery
The magic of the unplanned makes the Loppis really special. During my visit, for example, I was surprised by a print of my favorite painter Marc Chagall. At Loppis, you will also find art prints and small watercolors and paintings, most of which come from Denmark. People there love to draw to creatively bridge the relatively long and dark time of fall and winter indoors. People in Northern Europe are real free spirits, says Daria. People who like to try things out and don’t always want to be perfect. This is also reflected in the creative design. Daria and Frank find the best pieces in small galleries and manufactories on their travels.
“The best things in life are found while looking for something completely different.”
Lawrence Block
Nomen est omen
Incidentally, the name Daria comes from Polish and means “gift”. It is derived from the Slavic word “dar”, which also means “gift” or “offering”. What does this have to do with the Loppis? For me, it’s obvious. Daria’s name fits with her passion for passing on special second-hand treasures at Loppis. In doing so, she gives herself and us a gift every day. Take a look at the Loppis Instagram channel. The owners regularly present individual items there. I finally leave Loppis with a “Snowball” tea light holder from the traditional glass manufacturer Kosta Boda, which I didn’t even know I needed so badly!
