If you’ve ever worn one of my hand-embroidered denim creations — or if you’re thinking about customising your own — you might have noticed a small but meaningful detail: three little stitched crosses. They’re always there, tucked discreetly onto belt loops or hidden on the reverse of a jacket collar.
A subtle touch, but one full of soul and story.
A tiny detail with a big meaning!
These crosses aren’t just a design choice; they’re my little tribute to the beautiful city that has been my home since the late 1990's: Amsterdam.
Close-up of little hand-stitched pink crosses on denim belt loops, inspired by Amsterdam’s coat of arms.
A serene Amsterdam canal at night, with glowing lights reflecting on the calm water, creating a magical atmosphere in this beautiful, amazing city that has been on UNESCO’s heritage list since 2010.
Reverse of a denim jacket collar with three small pink embroidered crosses – a hidden nod to Amsterdam.
The three crosses of Amsterdam
You’ve probably seen them before, even if you didn’t realise it. Three X's in a vertical row, standing bold and proud on Amsterdam’s coat of arms and flags. Officially, they are St. Andrew’s crosses, named after the apostle who, according to legend, was martyred on a cross in this shape.
But why are they the symbol of Amsterdam? Well, that’s where things get interesting...
Detailed view of an Amsterdam flag displaying three red crosses, a symbol of the city’s heritage.
Close-up of an Amsterdam banner showing the three red St. Andrew’s crosses, rich in tradition.
A serene Amsterdam street scene featuring historic flags with the three red crosses, symbolizing civic pride.
Theories behind the Xs
There’s no official explanation for why these three Xs appear on Amsterdam’s coat of arms, but history lovers (like me) have a few theories:
1. It could be a nod to an old noble family – Some historians believe the crosses come from the coat of arms of the Persijn family, medieval lords who once ruled over the area. Some also say that medieval Amsterdam adopted the symbol simply because it was commonly used in heraldry (family crests) at the time.
2. Water, fire and the plague – Another theory suggests that the three Xs represent the three biggest threats to Amsterdam in the past: floods, fires, and disease. Considering the city’s history of battling the elements and outbreaks, this one makes a lot of sense!
3. Heroic, merciful, determined – After World War II, Queen Wilhelmina added these three words—Heldhaftig, Barmhartig, Vastberaden—to Amsterdam’s coat of arms to honour the courage and resilience of its people. Though this was not the original meaning of the crosses, the motto has become deeply connected to the city’s identity.
Whatever the truth may be, one thing is certain: Amsterdammers are incredibly PROUD of their XXX!
You’ll see the symbol everywhere — on mural paintings, flags, bollards in the street, and even tattooed on the skin of many locals.
A massive modern mural on an urban wall featuring three stylized crosses, blending contemporary art with historical symbolism.
Detailed view of a tattoo design with three bold crosses, representing historical symbolism and individual identity.
Historic coat of arms of Amsterdam featuring three red crosses, intricately detailed in a close-up shot.
Why I stitch the crosses in my designs
As someone who creates by hand, I love adding details that tell a story. The three crosses are my little signature, a way to connect my work to the city that inspires me every day. While the original crosses are red, I usually stitch mine in pink to match my brand colours.
It’s my way of blending tradition with something fresh, playful, and unique.
When you wear my hand-stitched denim, you’re not just wearing something beautiful and sustainable — you’re also carrying a tiny piece of Amsterdam with you. A secret only you (and those who pay attention to details!) will notice.
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Close-up of embroidered belt loops with three pink crosses – Hand-stitched pink crosses on denim belt loops, inspired by Amsterdam’s coat of arms.
❌❌❌ Ready to wear Amsterdam’s spirit?
Whether you’re drawn to the symbolism or simply love the idea of owning something truly one-of-a-kind, my webshop is filled with hand-embroidered, upcycled denim waiting for its next adventure. Or, if you have a favourite pair of jeans or a jacket in need of a personal touch, I’d love to customise it just for you.
Because the best fashion isn’t just about how it looks — it’s about the stories it tells!
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Comments
Great design and nice story as well 😊💪
Thank you so much, dear Maus!
I’m absolutely delighted that you enjoyed both the design and the story.
Your support truly means everything to me! 🩵💙