Paris has long been famous as a world capital of fashion and design, but it is also a city with a wealth of exciting design concept stores bursting with products unique to France. It’s a country and a society with a history of commitment to artisan craft skills, a deep appreciation of the handmade object, innovative use of natural materials and the creative expression of the individual artist or designer.
Place des Vosges.
One of the best-loved outdoor spaces where Parisians like to hang out at any time of year is the elegant Place des Vosges, in the heart of the famous Marais district.
It’s also one of our favourite places, and has come to express for us the changing seasonal character of the city.
I’m often asked for shopping tips by those off to Paris, especially since many people know I spent about 35 years in the fashion industry. Where I like to explore isn’t the usual suspects such as St Germain des Pres or the big department stores (although I don’t ignore those). Instead, one of the first neighourhoods I head to for some fashion retail therapy is the 3rd arrondissement, the Haut (Upper) Marais.
If, like me, you love to shop, especially if there is the lure of snaring a great bargain, I’ve got some very useful tips to help you make the most of the whole SALE shopping experience.
One of the great attractions of Paris is the excitement building up to the start of the end of season sales.
To make the most of your sales shopping, you need to plan your strategy like a military operation.
Paris offers so much more than the Big Three department stores—Galeries Lafayette, Printemps on the Right Bank, and my personal favourite, Bon Marche on the Left Bank.
Knowing which Paris districts offer the sort of fashion you’re interested in will help you focus and save valuable time.
