December 21st, 2023

A tour of the city’s most stylish boutiques

Paris, the birthplace of haute couture and prêt-à-porter, has been the epicenter of global fashion for centuries. From the reign of Louis XIV, when the city first cultivated its reputation for luxury goods, to the late 19th century explosion of the French fashion industry, and the advent of Paris Fashion Week in 1973, the evolution of Parisian style has been a mesmerizing journey. Today, the city’s boutiques encapsulate the effortless elegance that is quintessentially Parisian. Here are some of the city’s most stylish boutiques.

BA&SH

First stop, BA&SH, a brainchild of two best friends, Barbara Boccara & Sharon Krief. This store exudes a warm, friendly vibe, while offering an array of chic, easy-to-wear pieces. Here, you’ll find the perfect blend of modern trends and timeless classics. The brand’s signature feminine dresses, impeccably tailored blazers, and versatile accessories perfectly capture the Parisian flair for combining comfort with style.

Apartment Sezane

Next, we step into Apartment Sezane, the world’s first online fashion brand. The brick-and-mortar store is as stylish as its digital counterpart, offering a curated selection of ready-to-wear clothing, accessories, and home decor. The beautifully designed store doubles as a cozy living space, complete with a quaint cinema room and a complimentary coffee corner, providing a unique shopping experience.

Le Bon Marche & Grande Epicerie

Le Bon Marche, the oldest department store in Paris, is a must-visit. The store’s vast collection spans high-end fashion labels, exquisite jewelry, and homeware. Adjacent to it is the Grande Epicerie, a gourmet food market. The duo offers a one-stop luxury shopping experience that’s truly Parisian.

Merci

Merci, a concept store located in the trendy Marais district, offers a unique blend of fashion, design, and lifestyle products. From cutting-edge clothing to vintage furniture and artisanal stationery, Merci has something for everyone. The store’s ethos of social responsibility, with profits going to educational projects in Madagascar, adds a feel-good factor to your shopping spree.

La Samaritaine

After a 15-year hiatus, La Samaritaine recently reopened its doors, reclaiming its status as a Parisian icon. The Art Nouveau and Art Deco building houses an array of luxury brands, exclusive collections, and a top-floor restaurant offering stunning views of the city. Shopping here is an experience in itself.

Shopping in these boutiques is more than just a retail therapy; it’s a cultural immersion. Dress comfortably yet stylishly, echoing the effortless Parisian chic, and you’ll fit right in. The customer service is usually impeccable, with staff ready to assist you in English. Each store has its unique theme, but the common thread is the celebration of Parisian fashion — elegant, timeless, and effortlessly chic.

Speak to our experts to guide you through the stylish streets of Paris for a taste of true Parisian style.

Image Credits: Inside Galeries Lafayette by Ana del Castillo © Shutterstock; shop window by Creative Labs  © Shutterstock; couple carrying shopping bags by sebra © Shutterstock; shopping rail by Noémie Roussel via Unsplash; view from rooftop over Paris by jy.choi © Shutterstock.