The city that is romanticised by most of us, but especially by those who love fashion! After all, fashion and Paris have a very special relationship. From where to shop to what to wear, here is a fashion girls guide to Paris…
Where to Stay
Each arrondissement of Paris has its own distinct vibe. My personal favourite area is Montmartre, located in the 18th arrondissement. Known as the artists’ quarter, you could quite literally spend hours walking through the countless cobblestoned streets of Montmartre. It’s where you’ll find street artists, several small museums and the Sacré-Coeur. It also has some of the greatest views of Paris.
Look at hotels such as Le Terrass Hotel Montmartre or Maison Barbès.
What to Do
Eiffel Tower
Champ De Mars, 5 Avenue, Anatole
No trip to Paris is complete without a trip to the Eiffel Tower. It is one of those iconic landmarks that never gets old, no matter how many times you see it. The best time to visit is at night, to see the dazzling light show.
Musee Yves Saint Laurent
5 Avenue Marceau
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The Yves Saint Laurent Museum exhibits over 5000 garments from the legendary fashion houses’ archive and is located in the original atelier where Saint Laurent worked. Surrounded by his sketches and personal artefacts, as well as iconic pieces such as ‘Le Smoking’, the museum offers visitors a rare insight into the designer’s great mind.
Musee du Louvre
Rue de Rivoli
Another iconic Parisian landmark that is a must-see during any visit. It is one of the most revered art institutions in the world and houses some of the world’s most important art pieces, including Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. The stunning glass pyramids at the entrance to the museum also provides a great place to take photos!
Grand Palais
Avenue Winston Churchill
This beautiful building was built in 1900 for Paris’ World Fair and continues today to be used as a venue for exhibitions. It is most commonly known amongst fashion lovers as the setting for Chanel’s fashion shows. If you happen to visit Paris during Fashion Week, it’s a good place to head for celebrity sightings.
READ MORE: Fashion Week 2023: Highlights From The Autumn/Winter Shows
Where to Shop
Champs-Elysees
The Champs-Elysees is the top shopping district for high-end Parisian stores. Dior, Louis Vuitton and Hermès all have their flagship stores on this iconic street. Even if you are just window shopping, a visit to the Champs-Elysees is a must. Other stores include Longchamp, Sephora and Zara. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants for when you need a shopping break.
Galeries Lafayette
40 Boulevard Haussmann
Galeries Lafayette is a grand department store in Paris, known for upscale fashion, food and architecture. Even if you don’t want to shop, going to see the stained-glass domed ceiling is enough to make the visit worthwhile. Spread out across multiple floors, Galeries Lafayette offers over 3,000 brands including Chanel, Armani and Cartier. Whilst you’re there head up to the rooftop for stunning views of Paris.
Where to Eat
Pink Mamma
20bis Rue de Douai
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Pink Mamma was host to one of my favourites ever evenings in Paris. The Italian food is delicious (and very reasonably priced), and the décor is simply stunning. If you’re visiting Paris, Pink Mamma is a must!
Eiffel Tower Picnic
Please do not leave Paris without having a picnic at the Eiffel Tower (unless you’re visiting in Winter). It’s a relatively inexpensive option compared to a lot of the restaurants in Paris and way more fun!
You’ll be able to find supplies from any nearby supermarket or bakery, but to give you an idea of what to take, I would opt for: bread, French cheeses, fresh fruit, olives, macarons and wine.
What To Wear
It’s no secret that Parisians have some of the best style in the world. Depending on the time of year you visit will of course affect what you pack. But from my experience, you can never go wrong with a chic blazer or trench and jeans. Or if you are visiting in Summer, a midi-dress will not go amiss. You definitely want to be comfortable as it is likely you’ll do a lot of walking, so pack trainers or flat shoes. Oh, and to avoid looking like a tourist, maybe avoid a beret!
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