I always save room in my suitcase to do some shopping in Paris. Though many larger brands are now available globally and online, I like to shop for brands and styles I can’t find at home. Many of you have asked for suggestions for more affordable places to shop for fashion in Paris, so I’ve rounded up a few of my favorites.
With Paris being one of the (or THE) top fashion capitals of the world, you’ll find plenty of high end designer boutiques in most of the central arrondissements. But you don’t see many Parisians trotting around in head-to-toe designer outfits (or if they are, they’re subtle “stealth wealth” pieces). I’m sure most Parisiennes of more modest means have favorite one-off shops. But as a visitor I’ve sussed out a few accessible favorites of my own.
(While I realize everyone has their own definition of “affordable,” my frame of reference for the purpose of this post is prices comparable to US brands like J.Crew, Madewell, Talbot’s, Gap.)
Comptoir des Cotonniers
This is a chain, and you’ll find stores of various sizes all over Paris (and in other parts of France). I *always* make a point to visit while I’m here, and usually find something that works for me. They have great simple casual basics in natural fibers. And they often have ” x% off” promotions.
The sales associates are friendly and helpful. Sizing varies by item, but I find most to be generally true-to-size.
Caroll
Caroll is another chain with some great basics at reasonable prices. (Think Boden, but French.) They were a lifesaver when we were in Paris during a canicule (extreme heat wave) in 2019. I was able to find some linen trousers and tops that kept me (more) comfortable in the heat.
They have several shops in Paris, and also have periodic promotions.
Merci
Merci is a unique “concept store” in the Marais, which sells not only clothing but gifts and housewares. Clothing styles skew Bohemian, and prices range from budget-friendly to “bridge.” Think Anthropologie, but with a wide range of brands.
It’s a fun space to browse through, and there’s a nice cafe if you get peckish.
It’s also a good place to find little unique gifts to bring home.
Monoprix
No, really! The larger Monoprix stores have quite a wide selection of clothing and accessories. If you need something in a pinch (and on a budget) they’re definitely worth checking out. (Le Monsieur bought a couple of Monoprix linen shirts on one of our earlier visits, which he wore for several years.)
I always pick up a few of their re-usable nylon shopping bags for gifts and to keep in the car.
Sézane
Yes, you can shop online from the US, and we even have a few stores now, but it’s so much fun going to the original l’appartement, and you’ll find prices are slightly lower there.
It can get quite crowded, so I suggest visiting in the morning.
It’s a charming emporium, with clothing, bags, shoes, accessories…all with a Parisian attitude.
Cecile & Jeanne
I first discovered this French jewelry brand online a few years ago, but it’s much more fun to shop in person. They have a lovely collection of pieces from delicate to bold. I really love their “earring parties,” earring styles that can be worn in multiple combinations. You can find many lovely pieces under 100 euros.
They have a few locations throughout Paris; I usually visit the one on Rue St. Honoré.
Doré Doré
One of my “musts” in Paris is a visit to Doré Doré. They have simply the BEST socks.
Yes, you can find cheaper socks, but the quality is outstanding and the designs and colors are so fun. I especially love their lightweight cotton socks, and have purchased several pairs over the years. They wear like iron, even when put in the dryer.
(I took some videos in the store, but forgot to take photos, so here are a few of my favorite pairs I’ve purchased over the years…😆 ) These make great gifts too, and don’t take up much room in your suitcase. Doré Doré carries women’s, mens, and children’s hosiery of all kinds.
CityPharma
This legendary pharmacie is almost always packed, and the aisles are narrow, but it’s worth the lines and the squeeze. If you’re looking for the best drugstore beauty buys, be sure to ask one of the knowledgeable staff for recommendations (you can’t miss them in their white coats). Also great prices on many OTC meds. I always stock up on Ibuprofen, Maalox tablets, and such, which are usually much less expensive than in the US.
Yes, the big department stores will have the most variety, but they can also be quite crowded. Best times to visit are mornings early in the week. My two favorite department stores are Le Bon Marché in the 7th (relatively upscale, great spot for chic people watching) and BHV in the Marais (you’ll find just about everything here from clothing to luggage to kitchen gadgets).
Also: don’t miss La Grande Épicerie next door to LBM…an amazing gourmet market and food hall!
Don’t forget to ask about Détaxe (tax-free) paperwork on any purchases totaling over 100 euros*. If you live outside the EU you can get a refund on the VAT tax that’s automatically included in the price of most items.
- When you’ve finished shopping, ask for forms.
- You’ll need to have your passport with you at the point of purchase to get the forms.
- If you’ve paid by credit card, you can ask that the refund (usually around 10-12%) go directly back to the card used.
- Be sure to scan the form(s) they provide before you leave the EU! (There are machines at the airports and Eurostar stations, and usually a customs officer standing by to help if you have any difficulties.)
When paying by credit card, if you’re offered an option to pay in US dollars or Euros (or other local currency), always choose the local currency. You’ll get a better exchange rate that way. Many credit cards also offer no foreign transaction fees; those are the ones you’ll want to travel with.
You may find some new favorite shops just by strolling around and seeing what catches your eye in the windows. Prices for items in window displays will be posted, so you’ll know even before entering the shop what to expect.
Be sure to say “Bonjour (madame or monsieur)” when you enter a shop. In most shops, the sales staff will want to help you take things off racks or shelves, so ask before you pick something up or try it on. It’s perfectly OK to tell a sales associate “je veux y réfléchir,” (I want to think about it) if you’re not ready to make a purchase. (And we’ve found that most sales associates speak English, or enough of it to be able to answer questions.)
Happy shopping!
This article was previously published at an earlier date, and has been updated.
*This can vary by country or shop. Just ask an associate what the minimum is.
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