Gossip Girl, But Make It Belgian: The Fashion & Scene of Knokke Heist
If Netflix’s Knokke Off did one thing, it was to make us fantasize about summering like Belgium’s elite—perfectly polished, with just the right amount of snobbery.
Knokke-Le-Zoute remains one of Belgium’s best-kept secrets, with only a few hotels and even fewer tourists. But that exclusivity only makes it more desirable—who wouldn’t want to join the inner circle? Just be careful—Knokke Off reminds us that you never really know what dark secrets it holds.
And what’s the easiest way to get in? Dress the part.
Knokke Off had all the makings of a Belgian Gossip Girl, but while the serpentine storyline delivered, the fashion moments fell short. So, I couldn’t help but imagine how I’d style its main characters—curating looks that seamlessly blend with Knokke’s refined yet laid-back aesthetic. And since the series didn’t showcase many real locations, I tapped into my own experiences in Knokke to picture where the gang would actually hang out—and, of course, what they’d wear.
Credits: Netflix
Live the Knokke Off Dream
So if you want to spend a day like Knokke’s Off rich kids, Monroe Beach is the place to be—the northern version of St. Tropez, but with a more laid-back vibe. The best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to soak it all in. A single glass of rosé can be your ticket into the scene—as long as you look the part. Think rosé and champagne flowing all day, and a crowd of Belgian elite who have mastered the art of slow living. But don’t get too comfortable—what starts as a laid-back afternoon under the sun can quickly turn into a full-blown party, just like in Knokke Off.
But where to stay if you’re not part of the Knokke’s inner circle? As I mentioned, hotel options are very limited, so here’s my shortlist:
La Réserve Knokke – Perfect for those who want a sleek, modern stay with spa days, casino nights, and the occasional party. It’s right next to the town’s top nightout spots—Kitsch Club and Chagall Bar—but being a bit of distance from the main hustle.
Memlinc Palace – The best-located hotel in the heart of Knokke le Zoute, offering ocean views and an easy walk to the square where “you can be seen”. Yes, they literally have a square called Place M'as tu vu which pretty much translates to the “did-you-see-me” square.
Lugano Knokke – Boutique hotel vibes, nice beach towels and one of the best restaurants in town. And the bonus: It’s right next to Monroe Beach!
M’as-tu-vu Mode: What to Wear for Knokke & Monroe Beach
Sport Chic: Effortless & Cool
The beach’s white and beige aesthetic sets the perfect backdrop for a classy, neutral-toned outfit. Sport-chic is always a winning choice if you want to look like you didn’t try too hard—think ensembles that make it seem like you just stopped by after a morning tennis match or a bike ride along the coast. A word to the wise: never underestimate a North Sea breeze. An Ivy League sweatshirt or a golf club sweater will do a trick, but if you don’t have one, any coordinated preppy knit will save you from looking like an unprepared tourist shivering in style.
Coastal Boho Babe
For a more polished look, opt for boho-chic blouses paired with tailored shorts or breezy dresses. This piece by Chloé is for those who want something bohemian but with a price tag of a luxurious brand. For more affordable options look into LoveShakeFancy and Ulla Johnson. Don’t forget the crochet IT bag - for Louise I would choose a shell bag - also by Chloé. Cute and classic, just as Louise likes, but with a touch of fashion-forward flair. She also loves adding delicate touches to her hair, so I included this Hermès Twilly - an elegant yet playful detail. The shoes? One more season, one more reason to love jelly sandals—Chloé approved, and this jelly pair with a shell heel (there cannot be too many shells if they are Chloé, right?) is simply to die for.
And stealing the spotlight straight from Zendaya’s cover? A one-piece swimsuit from Chloé, featuring an eclectic flamingo print—bold, playful, and will turn all eyes on you.
Knokke Chuck Bass: Modern Dandy
While the girls effortlessly master the art of boho-chic—mixing trendy bijoux with heirloom jewelry straight from grandma’s collection—the guys of Knokke, like Belgian Chuck Bass, Alex, bring their own brand of refined snobbery. Think crisp linen shirts (preferably in muted tones, like this one from Loro Piana) and a Rolex Datejust subtly coordinated with their loafers. Ray-Bans are a Knokke essential, but here, it’s all about seeing and being seen, so why not take it up a notch with Cartier aviators. And voilà, a Modern Dandy with a touch of “I summer between St. Tropez and Knokke” energy—ready for the promenade.
Sustainable ride but make it fashion
If you want to channel true Knokke insider vibes, forget flashy cars—no one’s impressed by those here anyway. Instead, make a statement with a designer bike. I’m not trying to turn Knokke Off into Emily in Paris (well, maybe just a touch, haha) but this Dior x Bogarde BMX, in crisp white with golden beige accents, is undeniably a stylish way to cruise through town while staying true to conscious living. The only catch? This collaboration dropped back in 2019, but if you’re lucky, you might still score one from resellers. And if you do, pair it with a vintage Dior bag—maybe one passed down from your mom, or this pre-loved Dior Vibe Bucket Bag from 2022, which has all the makings to become a future vintage gem for your own kids.
Now, let’s imagine you’re in Knokke-Heist—or the costume designer of Knokke Off—how would you dress for the scene?
