Paris: Boutiques
These are some of my favorite shops. The list is far from comprehensive but it’s what I remember.
Thu Nguyen - Great boutique in Le Marais, pictured above. So Paris, so wonderful. I was especially taken by the large necklaces — almost like armor — displayed in the window. Everything here is wearable and beautiful. (1 Rue Ferdinand Duval)
à Fragonard - This upscale shop specializes in shawls but it was a delicious blue coat that got me in the door. I also purchased a dress here, a confection of patterned silk with burnout treatments. Next time I’ll buy one of the buttery suede wraps. (61 Rue Faubourg Saint Honoré)
OUT - Brightly dressed mannequins in a courtyard signal this independent shop where local designers sell their wares. I bought a little black dress by Yaanbath, who zipped me in and sold me the goods. Located in Le Marais near the Musée Carnavalet. Cash only. (9 Rue Tiquetonne)
Galerie Simone - I purchased a one-of-a-kind skirt here as well as a short-sleeved blouse I am aching to wear in warmer weather. The store is efficiently curated and has great shoes and accessories. Near the Picasso Museum in Le Marais. (124 Rue Vieille du Temple)
Petite Bateau - Soft, slim-cut T-shirts made in France. My favorite! They also sell cute children’s clothes. In addition to the tops I bought a T-shirt dress which is surprisingly flattering. There are shops all over Paris, including Le Marais and Champs-Élysées.
BHV - This large department store near Hotel de Ville has an entrance in the Metro stop. I didn’t pack enough socks for the trip and had to buy more. I was feeling short on jeans so I bought an inexpensive pair here, in the Parisian style of wearing skinny too-long jeans with high wooden-heeled shoes. Another purchase at BHV: cushy inserts for my boots.