What should I buy in Paris?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It's 2022. The world is global. Prices are location adjusted. The savings of buying stuff in europe is going to be nominal.

You are totally wrong. Between the different pricing in Euros on designer goods and the VAT refund there is 100% a difference in pricing that can be substantial depending on the particular brand and on the exchange rate at the time.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Go to Citypharma in the 6th. It's the largest and most affordable pharmacy for skincare and haircare products and they have some English-speaking staff who can help advise you on products. Just don't go at lunch time. It will be packed. Early morning is best.

I love Christophe Robin finishing hair creme, La Roche Rosay Anthelios 50 sunscreen and Korres conditioner to name a few.

Louis Vuitton is much cheaper than in the US. But be strategic about where you buy as there can be hours long waits to get into the flagship store or the stores inside the big department stores. Try to make an appointment at a less popular store if you are serious about buying. And make sure to read up on declaring VAT to save even more.

I second the recommendation for Monoprix for affordable babies' and children's clothing. Also, if you like Petit Bateau, their kids pajamas are great and you'll have a much wider selection of PB clothing here than in the US.

Department store-wise, Galeries Lafayatte and Printemps are worth seeing for the interiors and the top floor views, but if you really want to shop, head to Le Bon Marche. It's a bit smaller, but less crowded and very well-curated. If I want to treat myself to something special, it's my first stop.

Another favorite is Sezane sweaters. I want them all. Yes, yes, you can order online in the US. But it's much more fun to go do a try-on at one of their stores. They have a "conciergerie" service where you can reserve items to try on in advance.

Other favorites: Ines de la Fressange, body oils and perfumes at Officine Univerelle Buly

And last, but not least, get yourself to Le Grande Epicerie right before you leave to stock up on all of the French foods you can get through customs. French sea salt, mustard, madeleines, tea, wine, etc.

I’ve learned that the best place to buy LV is actually at CDG. They automatically include the refund so you don’t even have to apply for it. The only issue is that they have a very limited selection compared to the stores in the city and you obviously have to fly out of a particular terminal. But if you can swing it, it’s incredibly convenient.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Olympia le Tan book clutch a treasure for a lifetime

I got very intrigued and googled it. While I agree it’s very unique I am not sure it’s very wearable? It looks incredibly small and looks like a real book! Thank you for sharing though! I love unique pieces.

[Anonymous]

Are you going over Thanksgiving? They do Black Friday, so you may get some really good deals. I usually spend Thanksgiving in Paris as my personal annual getaway.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Olympia le Tan book clutch a treasure for a lifetime

I got very intrigued and googled it. While I agree it’s very unique I am not sure it’s very wearable? It looks incredibly small and looks like a real book! Thank you for sharing though! I love unique pieces.

I did the same. All I could picture was Emily in Paris meets Girlfriends in Paris

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:A Lancel bag. They are not sold in the US.

I bought a Lancel weekender bag 20+ years ago and it is still in perfect shape. Same for a leather Longchamps handbag.

[Anonymous]

Goyard

[Anonymous]

A Louis Vuitton of course!

[Anonymous]

Sezane has a men’s line in their France stores called Octobre that has a ton of unisex stuff. When I was in Aix last summer I did great with both lines—ended up w some amazing linen jackets in small/medium

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:A Lancel bag. They are not sold in the US.

Agreed!!!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:A Lancel bag. They are not sold in the US.

Agreed!!!

Why? They’re all over on eBay.,

[Anonymous]

It is def worth price shopping if there is a designer bag you are in the market—saved $600 on a celine bag I purchased in Italy this summer when the Euro-USD was 1:1. Don’t forget accessories either—designer sunglasses/belts/wallets/hermes bracelets etc.

The decision about when and how long to shop will be a challenge. You might find yourself waiting or having to come back.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:A Lancel bag. They are not sold in the US.

Agreed!!!

Why? They’re all over on eBay.,

I don't buy things on eBay.

[Anonymous]

Go check out Olivia Clergue for bags. I’m not a fan of the popular high end bags like Longchamp, LV. Her bags are handmade, artisanal, and just beautiful. Most bags are under 1000 euros, and really, really well made. I believe her store is in Le Marais.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Goyard

+1! And Chanel