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Alain Figaret
Paris
Alain Figaret is one of France's foremost designers of men's shirts and women's blouses. Though this store has a broad range of fabrics, 100% cotton is its specialty. Also, check out the silk neckties in distinctively designed prints and the silk scarves for women. In recent years, inventories have been expanded to include pajamas, polo shirts, undergarments, and vests for both men and women. If you're comparison-shopping, Figaret and Charvet are half a block apart. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.Alain Figaret is one of France's foremost designers of men's
Anna Lowe
Paris
Adjacent to the Bristol Hotel, one of the most expensive addresses in Paris, is one of the city's premier boutiques for women who want to purchase heavily discounted clothing (new, with labels intact) from some of the world's best-known fashion designers. Expect discounts of up to 50% on last year's collections from such artists as Valentino, Thierry Mugler, John Galliano, Chanel, Versace, and many more. Your find might be what a model wore down the runway at last year's fashion show, excess inventories from factories that -- for whatever reason -- never got paid, or overstock from boutiques looking to make room for new inventories. Prices are reasonable, and the labels, in many cases, still retain their old magic and sense of chic. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.Adjacent to the Bristol Hotel, one of the most expensive
Annexe des Créateurs
Paris
Few stores in Paris receive as much publicity as this high-end, ultraglamorous discount outlet, where the collections of top-drawer designers are discounted by 30% to 70%. Charming owner and founder Edwige Meister inventories the only slightly worn but out-of-date women's wear of Stella McCartney, Versace, Moschino, Gaultier, Vivienne Westwood, and others. The staff insists that garments are in "perfect or near-perfect condition" and usually derive from terribly wealthy, obsessively stylish women who refuse to wear any garment more than once. It "isn't inconceivable," according to Mlle Meister, for a client to sell (on consignment) a garment in one of these two boutiques and then immediately pass through the interconnecting door to buy a secondhand but mint-condition garment in the boutique's counterpart a few steps away. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11am to 7pm.Few stores in Paris receive as much publicity as this
Artcurial
Paris
Set within minimalist showrooms in one of the most spectacular 19th-century mansions in Paris, this is one of the best outlets in Europe for contemporary art. Since it was established in 1975, it has represented megastars such as Man Ray and the "enfant terrible" of France's postwar intelligentsia, Jean Cocteau. Today, the names of showcased artists read like a Who's Who of contemporary art: Arman, Sonia de Launay, and Niki de Saint Phalle for painting and sculpture; Claude Lalanne for jewelry design; and Matta for contemporary carpets. Technically, it's an auction house, similar in some ways to Sotheby's and Christie's, albeit with a specialization in modern and contemporary art, vintage photographs by "important" photographers, antique books and posters, and sculpture. The staff is well versed in the merits of each individual artist on display. The more expensive works are usually displayed in anticipation of a scheduled auction, but there's also a boutique selling reproductions and gift items, and an overwhelming sense of an association with the inner workings of the international art investment community. Despite an address that might be among the most expensive in the world (the intersection of avenue Montaigne and Champs-Elysées), the place is more welcoming than, and not as forbidding as, its location implies. Open Monday to Friday 10am to 7pm; Saturday 11am to 7pm.Set within minimalist showrooms in one of the most spectacular
Au Bon Marché
Paris
Don't be fooled by the name ("low-budget" or "cheap") of this two-part Left Bank department store -- for about 20 years, it has worked hard to position itself in the luxury market, selling fashion for men, women, and children; furniture; upscale gifts; and housewares. Some visitors compare it with Bloomingdale's. This is the oldest department store in Paris, dating from 1852. Of course, it can't compete with the grand magasins (department stores) such as Galeries Lafayette , except in one category: Au Bon Marché has a superior rug department, which it has fine-tuned as its specialty since 1871. It also has one of the largest food halls in Paris. Open Monday to Wednesday and Friday 9:30am to 7pm; Thursday 10am to 9pm; Saturday 9:30am to 8pm.Don't be fooled by the name ("low-budget" or "cheap") of
Au Gré du Vent
Paris
This is where the wives of diplomats and millionaires and self-made women from all arenas of Parisian life arrive, discreetly, with plastic shopping bags loaded with occasionally worn couture, which Au Gré du Vent sells on consignment. Hanging enticingly in this cheerful store -- depending on that day's inventory -- might be garments from Chanel, Hermès, Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Kenzo, Louis Vuitton, Pierre Balmain, or Gaultier. You won't always find the size or style you're looking for, but a woman with a sense of adventure can have a lot of fun here. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:30am to 7pm.This is where the wives of diplomats and millionaires and
Au Nain Bleu
Paris
This is the largest, oldest, and most centrally located toy store in Paris. More important, it's probably the fanciest toy store in the world. But don't panic -- in addition to the expensive stuff, you'll find rows of cheaper items on the first floor. Open Monday 2 to 7pm; Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.. This is the largest, oldest, and most centrally
Au Nom de la Rose
Paris
Tasteful and frilly, this flower shop and gift boutique sells many of the floral arrangements that decorate local hotels and restaurants, as well as gift objects that are scented, emblazoned, or permeated with "the spirit or scent of the rose." Expect an overwhelming mass of flowers, many of them temporarily resting in glassed-in coolers, as well as rose-hip jams and marmalades, scented soaps and candles, rosewater-based perfumes, and decorative items for the home and kitchen. A "refinement" (their words) that you might consider either hopelessly decadent or whimsical and charming, depending on your point of view, is a perfume that's specifically designed to enhance the allure of your bedsheets. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 9pm; Sunday 9am to 2pm.Tasteful and frilly, this flower shop and gift boutique sells
Au Printemps
Paris
Take a look at the facade of this store for a reminder of the Gilded Age. Inside, the merchandise is divided into housewares (Printemps Maison), women's fashion (Printemps de la Mode), and men's clothes (Le Printemps de l'Homme). This is better for women's and children's fashions than is Galeries Lafayette. As for the top names in perfume, it's in a dead heat with Galeries Lafayette. Although visitors feel more pampered in Galeries Lafayette, Au Printemps's customer service is dazzling, putting all major department stores in Paris to shame. Check out the magnificent stained-glass dome, through which turquoise light cascades into the sixth-floor Café Flo, where you can have a coffee or a full meal. Interpreters at the Welcome Service in Printemps de la Mode will help you find what you're looking for, claim your VAT refund, and so on. Au Printemps also has a tourist discount card, offering a flat 10% discount. Open Monday to Wednesday and Friday to Saturday 9:35am to 7pm; Thursday 9:35am to 9pm.Take a look at the facade of this store for
Azzedine Alaïa
Paris
Alaïa, who became the darling of French fashion in the 1970s, is the man who put body consciousness back into Paris chic. If you can't afford the current collection, try the stock shop around the corner at 18 rue de la Verrerie, 4e (tel. 01-42-72-19-19; Métro: Hotel-de-Ville), where last year's leftovers are sold at serious discounts. Both outlets sell leather trench coats, knit dresses, pleated skirts, cigarette pants, belts, purses, and fashion accessories. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.Alaïa, who became the darling of French fashion in the
Baccarat
Paris
Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors of full-lead crystal. You won't be able to comparison-shop Baccarat crystal at its four branches--a central organization sets rigid prices. The most prestigious outlet is on place de la Madeleine, but the outlet at 11 place des Etats-Unis, 16e, is larger and contains the Musée Baccarat. A third branch at rue de la Paix sells only women's jewelry, in which real gemstones (usually colored stones such as rubies and sapphires) are sometimes interspersed with cut crystal for that flashy "is it real or is it fake?" look. A fourth branch is in the Hotel Concorde La Fayette at the Palais des Congrès-Côté Ternes, at place du Général Koenig. Branches are open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 7pm; Monday and Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors
Baccarat
Paris
Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors of full-lead crystal. You won't be able to comparison-shop Baccarat crystal at its four branches--a central organization sets rigid prices. The most prestigious outlet is on place de la Madeleine, but the outlet at 11 place des Etats-Unis, 16e, is larger and contains the Musée Baccarat. A third branch at rue de la Paix sells only women's jewelry, in which real gemstones (usually colored stones such as rubies and sapphires) are sometimes interspersed with cut crystal for that flashy "is it real or is it fake?" look. A fourth branch is in the Hotel Concorde La Fayette at the Palais des Congrès-Côté Ternes, at place du Général Koenig. Branches are open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 7pm; Monday and Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors
BCBG/Max Azria
Paris
You'll quickly get the sense that someone spent hours meticulously selecting the women's clothing and accessories featured on three floors of this stylish boutique where everything is "BCBG" (bon chic, bon genre -- a designation for things chic, restrained, and tasteful). Things here are, indeed "BCBG," but in brighter colors than you might expect, judging from the samba-inspired and highly theatrical front windows. Come here for women's sportswear, evening wear (at least some of it in silk mousseline), costume jewelry, and accessories. The staff seems thoughtful and sensitive to its clientele. The place stocks European sizes 34 to 44, which translate roughly to U.S.-derived sizes 0 to 12. It's open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.You'll quickly get the sense that someone spent hours meticulously
Bijoux Blues
Paris
This Marais boutique offers unique jewelry handmade in Paris with a variety of different materials, including Austrian and bohemian crystals, natural and semi-precious stones, pearls, coral, and mother-of-pearl. Custom requests are welcomed for individually designed pieces. The store offers jewelry at what the staff calls "atelier prices." Open Tuesday to Friday 2 to 8pm; Saturday and Sunday noon to 8pm.This Marais boutique offers unique jewelry handmade in Paris with
Bijoux Burma
Paris
If you can't afford any of the spectacular and expensive bijoux at the city's world-famous jewelers, come here to console yourself with some of the best fakes anywhere. This quality costume jewelry is the secret weapon of many a Parisian woman. Open Monday to Saturday 10:30am to 6:45pm.If you can't afford any of the spectacular and expensive
Bonpoint
Paris
This outlet is part of a chain that helps parents transform their darlings into models of well-tailored conspicuous consumption. Though you'll find some garments for real life, the primary allure of the place lies in its tailored, traditional -- and expensive -- garments by the "Coco Chanel of the children's garment industry," Marie-France Cohen. The shop sells clothes for boys and girls from newborn to age 16. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm.This outlet is part of a chain that helps parents
Brentano's
Paris
A block from the Opéra Garnier, Brentano's is a large English-language bookstore selling guides, maps, novels, and nonfiction as well as greeting cards, postcards, holiday items, and gifts. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7:30pm; Sunday 1 to 7pm.A block from the Opéra Garnier, Brentano's is a large
Cadolle
Paris
Herminie Cadolle invented the brassiere in 1889. Today, her family manages the store she founded, and they still make specialty brassieres for the Crazy Horse Saloon. This is the place to go if you want made-to-order items or are hard to fit. Open Monday to Saturday 9:30am to 1pm and 2 to 6:30pm.Herminie Cadolle invented the brassiere in 1889. Today, her family
Carrousel du Louvre
Paris
If you want to combine an accessible location, a fun food court, boutiques, and plenty of museum gift shops with a touch of culture, don't miss the Carrousel. Always mobbed, this is one of the few venues allowed to open on Sunday. There's a Virgin Megastore, a branch of The Body Shop, and several other emporiums for conspicuous consumption. Check out Diane Claire for the fanciest souvenirs you've ever seen. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm.If you want to combine an accessible location, a fun
Cartier
Paris
One of the most famous jewelers in the world, Cartier has prohibitive prices to match its glamorous image. Go to gawk, and if your pockets are deep enough, pick up an expensive trinket. Open Monday to Saturday 10:30am to 7pm.One of the most famous jewelers in the world, Cartier
Cassegrain
Paris
Nothing says elegance more than thick French stationery and notecards. Cassegrain, originally an engraver in 1919, offers beautifully engraved stationery, most often in traditional patterns, and business cards engraved to order. Several other items for the desk, many suitable for gifts, are for sale as well; there are even affordable pencils and pens, leather wallets, and small desktop accessories. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.Nothing says elegance more than thick French stationery and notecards.
Chanel
Paris
If you can't have the sun, the moon, and the stars, at least buy something with Coco Chanel's initials on it -- either a serious fashion statement (drop-dead chic) or something fun and playful (tongue-in-chic). Karl Lagerfeld's designs come in all flavors and have added a subtle twist to Chanel's classicism. This store is adjacent to the Chanel couture house and behind the Ritz, where Mlle Chanel once lived. Check out the beautiful staircase of the maison before you shop the two-floor boutique -- it's well worth a peek. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.If you can't have the sun, the moon, and the
Charvet
Paris
The duke of Windsor made Charvet famous, but Frenchmen of distinction have been buying their shirts here for years. The store sells ties, pocket squares, underwear, and pajamas as well, plus women's shirts, all custom-tailored or straight off the peg. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.The duke of Windsor made Charvet famous, but Frenchmen of
Christian Constant
Paris
Opened in 1970, Christian Constant sells some of Paris's most delectable chocolates by the kilo. Each is a blend of ingredients from Ecuador, Colombia, or Venezuela, usually mingled with scents of spices and flowers such as orange blossoms, jasmine, the Asian blossom ylang-ylang, and vetiver and verveine (herbs usually used to brew tea). Open Monday to Friday 8:30am to 9pm; Saturday to Sunday 8am to 8:30pm.Opened in 1970, Christian Constant sells some of Paris's most
Christian Dior
Paris
This fashion house is set up like a small department store, selling men's, women's, and children's clothing, as well as affordable gift items, makeup, and perfume on the street level. For several years, cutting-edge Brit designer John Galliano has been in charge of the collections. Unlike some of the other big-name fashion houses, Dior is very approachable. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.This fashion house is set up like a small department
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Paris
© John Hay/Lonely Planet Images
Alain Figaret
Paris
Alain Figaret is one of France's foremost designers of men's shirts and women's blouses. Though this store has a broad range of fabrics, 100% cotton is its specialty. Also, check out the silk neckties in distinctively designed prints and the silk scarves for women. In recent years, inventories have been expanded to include pajamas, polo shirts, undergarments, and vests for both men and women. If you're comparison-shopping, Figaret and Charvet are half a block apart. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.Alain Figaret is one of France's foremost designers of men's
Anna Lowe
Paris
Adjacent to the Bristol Hotel, one of the most expensive addresses in Paris, is one of the city's premier boutiques for women who want to purchase heavily discounted clothing (new, with labels intact) from some of the world's best-known fashion designers. Expect discounts of up to 50% on last year's collections from such artists as Valentino, Thierry Mugler, John Galliano, Chanel, Versace, and many more. Your find might be what a model wore down the runway at last year's fashion show, excess inventories from factories that -- for whatever reason -- never got paid, or overstock from boutiques looking to make room for new inventories. Prices are reasonable, and the labels, in many cases, still retain their old magic and sense of chic. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.Adjacent to the Bristol Hotel, one of the most expensive
Annexe des Créateurs
Paris
Few stores in Paris receive as much publicity as this high-end, ultraglamorous discount outlet, where the collections of top-drawer designers are discounted by 30% to 70%. Charming owner and founder Edwige Meister inventories the only slightly worn but out-of-date women's wear of Stella McCartney, Versace, Moschino, Gaultier, Vivienne Westwood, and others. The staff insists that garments are in "perfect or near-perfect condition" and usually derive from terribly wealthy, obsessively stylish women who refuse to wear any garment more than once. It "isn't inconceivable," according to Mlle Meister, for a client to sell (on consignment) a garment in one of these two boutiques and then immediately pass through the interconnecting door to buy a secondhand but mint-condition garment in the boutique's counterpart a few steps away. Open Tuesday to Saturday 11am to 7pm.Few stores in Paris receive as much publicity as this
Artcurial
Paris
Set within minimalist showrooms in one of the most spectacular 19th-century mansions in Paris, this is one of the best outlets in Europe for contemporary art. Since it was established in 1975, it has represented megastars such as Man Ray and the "enfant terrible" of France's postwar intelligentsia, Jean Cocteau. Today, the names of showcased artists read like a Who's Who of contemporary art: Arman, Sonia de Launay, and Niki de Saint Phalle for painting and sculpture; Claude Lalanne for jewelry design; and Matta for contemporary carpets. Technically, it's an auction house, similar in some ways to Sotheby's and Christie's, albeit with a specialization in modern and contemporary art, vintage photographs by "important" photographers, antique books and posters, and sculpture. The staff is well versed in the merits of each individual artist on display. The more expensive works are usually displayed in anticipation of a scheduled auction, but there's also a boutique selling reproductions and gift items, and an overwhelming sense of an association with the inner workings of the international art investment community. Despite an address that might be among the most expensive in the world (the intersection of avenue Montaigne and Champs-Elysées), the place is more welcoming than, and not as forbidding as, its location implies. Open Monday to Friday 10am to 7pm; Saturday 11am to 7pm.Set within minimalist showrooms in one of the most spectacular
Au Bon Marché
Paris
Don't be fooled by the name ("low-budget" or "cheap") of this two-part Left Bank department store -- for about 20 years, it has worked hard to position itself in the luxury market, selling fashion for men, women, and children; furniture; upscale gifts; and housewares. Some visitors compare it with Bloomingdale's. This is the oldest department store in Paris, dating from 1852. Of course, it can't compete with the grand magasins (department stores) such as Galeries Lafayette , except in one category: Au Bon Marché has a superior rug department, which it has fine-tuned as its specialty since 1871. It also has one of the largest food halls in Paris. Open Monday to Wednesday and Friday 9:30am to 7pm; Thursday 10am to 9pm; Saturday 9:30am to 8pm.Don't be fooled by the name ("low-budget" or "cheap") of
Au Gré du Vent
Paris
This is where the wives of diplomats and millionaires and self-made women from all arenas of Parisian life arrive, discreetly, with plastic shopping bags loaded with occasionally worn couture, which Au Gré du Vent sells on consignment. Hanging enticingly in this cheerful store -- depending on that day's inventory -- might be garments from Chanel, Hermès, Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Kenzo, Louis Vuitton, Pierre Balmain, or Gaultier. You won't always find the size or style you're looking for, but a woman with a sense of adventure can have a lot of fun here. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10:30am to 7pm.This is where the wives of diplomats and millionaires and
Au Nain Bleu
Paris
This is the largest, oldest, and most centrally located toy store in Paris. More important, it's probably the fanciest toy store in the world. But don't panic -- in addition to the expensive stuff, you'll find rows of cheaper items on the first floor. Open Monday 2 to 7pm; Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.. This is the largest, oldest, and most centrally
Au Nom de la Rose
Paris
Tasteful and frilly, this flower shop and gift boutique sells many of the floral arrangements that decorate local hotels and restaurants, as well as gift objects that are scented, emblazoned, or permeated with "the spirit or scent of the rose." Expect an overwhelming mass of flowers, many of them temporarily resting in glassed-in coolers, as well as rose-hip jams and marmalades, scented soaps and candles, rosewater-based perfumes, and decorative items for the home and kitchen. A "refinement" (their words) that you might consider either hopelessly decadent or whimsical and charming, depending on your point of view, is a perfume that's specifically designed to enhance the allure of your bedsheets. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 9pm; Sunday 9am to 2pm.Tasteful and frilly, this flower shop and gift boutique sells
Au Printemps
Paris
Take a look at the facade of this store for a reminder of the Gilded Age. Inside, the merchandise is divided into housewares (Printemps Maison), women's fashion (Printemps de la Mode), and men's clothes (Le Printemps de l'Homme). This is better for women's and children's fashions than is Galeries Lafayette. As for the top names in perfume, it's in a dead heat with Galeries Lafayette. Although visitors feel more pampered in Galeries Lafayette, Au Printemps's customer service is dazzling, putting all major department stores in Paris to shame. Check out the magnificent stained-glass dome, through which turquoise light cascades into the sixth-floor Café Flo, where you can have a coffee or a full meal. Interpreters at the Welcome Service in Printemps de la Mode will help you find what you're looking for, claim your VAT refund, and so on. Au Printemps also has a tourist discount card, offering a flat 10% discount. Open Monday to Wednesday and Friday to Saturday 9:35am to 7pm; Thursday 9:35am to 9pm.Take a look at the facade of this store for
Azzedine Alaïa
Paris
Alaïa, who became the darling of French fashion in the 1970s, is the man who put body consciousness back into Paris chic. If you can't afford the current collection, try the stock shop around the corner at 18 rue de la Verrerie, 4e (tel. 01-42-72-19-19; Métro: Hotel-de-Ville), where last year's leftovers are sold at serious discounts. Both outlets sell leather trench coats, knit dresses, pleated skirts, cigarette pants, belts, purses, and fashion accessories. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.Alaïa, who became the darling of French fashion in the
Baccarat
Paris
Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors of full-lead crystal. You won't be able to comparison-shop Baccarat crystal at its four branches--a central organization sets rigid prices. The most prestigious outlet is on place de la Madeleine, but the outlet at 11 place des Etats-Unis, 16e, is larger and contains the Musée Baccarat. A third branch at rue de la Paix sells only women's jewelry, in which real gemstones (usually colored stones such as rubies and sapphires) are sometimes interspersed with cut crystal for that flashy "is it real or is it fake?" look. A fourth branch is in the Hotel Concorde La Fayette at the Palais des Congrès-Côté Ternes, at place du Général Koenig. Branches are open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 7pm; Monday and Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors
Baccarat
Paris
Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors of full-lead crystal. You won't be able to comparison-shop Baccarat crystal at its four branches--a central organization sets rigid prices. The most prestigious outlet is on place de la Madeleine, but the outlet at 11 place des Etats-Unis, 16e, is larger and contains the Musée Baccarat. A third branch at rue de la Paix sells only women's jewelry, in which real gemstones (usually colored stones such as rubies and sapphires) are sometimes interspersed with cut crystal for that flashy "is it real or is it fake?" look. A fourth branch is in the Hotel Concorde La Fayette at the Palais des Congrès-Côté Ternes, at place du Général Koenig. Branches are open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 7pm; Monday and Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.Opened in 1764, Baccarat is one of Europe's leading purveyors
BCBG/Max Azria
Paris
You'll quickly get the sense that someone spent hours meticulously selecting the women's clothing and accessories featured on three floors of this stylish boutique where everything is "BCBG" (bon chic, bon genre -- a designation for things chic, restrained, and tasteful). Things here are, indeed "BCBG," but in brighter colors than you might expect, judging from the samba-inspired and highly theatrical front windows. Come here for women's sportswear, evening wear (at least some of it in silk mousseline), costume jewelry, and accessories. The staff seems thoughtful and sensitive to its clientele. The place stocks European sizes 34 to 44, which translate roughly to U.S.-derived sizes 0 to 12. It's open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.You'll quickly get the sense that someone spent hours meticulously
Bijoux Blues
Paris
This Marais boutique offers unique jewelry handmade in Paris with a variety of different materials, including Austrian and bohemian crystals, natural and semi-precious stones, pearls, coral, and mother-of-pearl. Custom requests are welcomed for individually designed pieces. The store offers jewelry at what the staff calls "atelier prices." Open Tuesday to Friday 2 to 8pm; Saturday and Sunday noon to 8pm.This Marais boutique offers unique jewelry handmade in Paris with
Bijoux Burma
Paris
If you can't afford any of the spectacular and expensive bijoux at the city's world-famous jewelers, come here to console yourself with some of the best fakes anywhere. This quality costume jewelry is the secret weapon of many a Parisian woman. Open Monday to Saturday 10:30am to 6:45pm.If you can't afford any of the spectacular and expensive
Bonpoint
Paris
This outlet is part of a chain that helps parents transform their darlings into models of well-tailored conspicuous consumption. Though you'll find some garments for real life, the primary allure of the place lies in its tailored, traditional -- and expensive -- garments by the "Coco Chanel of the children's garment industry," Marie-France Cohen. The shop sells clothes for boys and girls from newborn to age 16. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 6pm.This outlet is part of a chain that helps parents
Brentano's
Paris
A block from the Opéra Garnier, Brentano's is a large English-language bookstore selling guides, maps, novels, and nonfiction as well as greeting cards, postcards, holiday items, and gifts. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7:30pm; Sunday 1 to 7pm.A block from the Opéra Garnier, Brentano's is a large
Cadolle
Paris
Herminie Cadolle invented the brassiere in 1889. Today, her family manages the store she founded, and they still make specialty brassieres for the Crazy Horse Saloon. This is the place to go if you want made-to-order items or are hard to fit. Open Monday to Saturday 9:30am to 1pm and 2 to 6:30pm.Herminie Cadolle invented the brassiere in 1889. Today, her family
Carrousel du Louvre
Paris
If you want to combine an accessible location, a fun food court, boutiques, and plenty of museum gift shops with a touch of culture, don't miss the Carrousel. Always mobbed, this is one of the few venues allowed to open on Sunday. There's a Virgin Megastore, a branch of The Body Shop, and several other emporiums for conspicuous consumption. Check out Diane Claire for the fanciest souvenirs you've ever seen. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm.If you want to combine an accessible location, a fun
Cartier
Paris
One of the most famous jewelers in the world, Cartier has prohibitive prices to match its glamorous image. Go to gawk, and if your pockets are deep enough, pick up an expensive trinket. Open Monday to Saturday 10:30am to 7pm.One of the most famous jewelers in the world, Cartier
Cassegrain
Paris
Nothing says elegance more than thick French stationery and notecards. Cassegrain, originally an engraver in 1919, offers beautifully engraved stationery, most often in traditional patterns, and business cards engraved to order. Several other items for the desk, many suitable for gifts, are for sale as well; there are even affordable pencils and pens, leather wallets, and small desktop accessories. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.Nothing says elegance more than thick French stationery and notecards.
Chanel
Paris
If you can't have the sun, the moon, and the stars, at least buy something with Coco Chanel's initials on it -- either a serious fashion statement (drop-dead chic) or something fun and playful (tongue-in-chic). Karl Lagerfeld's designs come in all flavors and have added a subtle twist to Chanel's classicism. This store is adjacent to the Chanel couture house and behind the Ritz, where Mlle Chanel once lived. Check out the beautiful staircase of the maison before you shop the two-floor boutique -- it's well worth a peek. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.If you can't have the sun, the moon, and the
Charvet
Paris
The duke of Windsor made Charvet famous, but Frenchmen of distinction have been buying their shirts here for years. The store sells ties, pocket squares, underwear, and pajamas as well, plus women's shirts, all custom-tailored or straight off the peg. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.The duke of Windsor made Charvet famous, but Frenchmen of
Christian Constant
Paris
Opened in 1970, Christian Constant sells some of Paris's most delectable chocolates by the kilo. Each is a blend of ingredients from Ecuador, Colombia, or Venezuela, usually mingled with scents of spices and flowers such as orange blossoms, jasmine, the Asian blossom ylang-ylang, and vetiver and verveine (herbs usually used to brew tea). Open Monday to Friday 8:30am to 9pm; Saturday to Sunday 8am to 8:30pm.Opened in 1970, Christian Constant sells some of Paris's most
Christian Dior
Paris
This fashion house is set up like a small department store, selling men's, women's, and children's clothing, as well as affordable gift items, makeup, and perfume on the street level. For several years, cutting-edge Brit designer John Galliano has been in charge of the collections. Unlike some of the other big-name fashion houses, Dior is very approachable. Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 7pm.This fashion house is set up like a small department
Page 1 of 4 : 1 | 2 | 3 | 4
