The best places to go shopping in Paris

Historic addresses, well-kept secrets and young, trendy brands that combine environmental consciousness and style: Paris has no shortage of shops to impress. From elegant dresses, contemporary knitwear and fashionable sunglasses to the perfect sneakers and royal perfumes, here’s a guide to the city’s inspiring and endless array of shops.

1. Soi

Founded by two sisters, Soi is a vibrant Parisian fashion brand that works with natural fabrics that are sourced and produced sustainably and ethically. The name of the label, a play on the French words for the self (soi) and silk (soie), hints at the philosophy behind the clothes, one that aligns ethical production with holistic wellbeing. The colourful prints and flowy dresses also happen to be excellent additions to a summer wardrobe.

2. Soeur

Classic French elegance combined with a modern minimalist twist: Soeur ’s garments are an exemplar of the contemporary Parisian style that continues to inspire the rest of the world. A few years ago, the label also launched a collection of jewellery and leather goods, as well as a line of sleek and highly appreciated menswear.

3. Livy

Combining the traditional French skill of lace weaving with contemporary materials and finishes such as microfibre and thermofusion, Livy offers some of the best of Parisian lingerie and swimwear. As well as prioritising comfort, the striking and well-crafted pieces accentuate the body and allow the wearer to show off their sensual side with confidence.

4. Le Mont Saint Michel

Le Mont Saint Michel has been described aptly as “a young brand with a long history”. This traditional workwear shop was taken over in 1998 by designer Alexandre Milan, who introduced his family’s background in knitting to the label’s repertoire. Nowadays, it is known for its classic designs with contemporary aesthetics, as well as its strong French identity.

5. Centre Commercial

Created by two of the founders behind the fashionable and sustainable Veja sneakers brand, Centre Commercial is located close to the trendy Canal Saint Martin area. The pair of shops, one for adults and one for kids, feature products and brands that are all responsibly manufactured and, for the most part made in France, making it a great place for picking up personalised souvenirs.

6. M. Moustache

All designed in Paris, the low-impact shoes and footwear of M. Moustache are your perfect ally to explore the busy streets of the city that require fit feet – in every sense of the word. The brand employs a circular production model, where new shoes are made from old footwear and other recycled materials. What’s more, these sleek sneakers, boots and sandals will allow you to stroll through the capital in style.

7. Jimmy Fairly

Launched in 2011, Jimmy Fairly has quickly become a go-to shop for fashionable spectacles and sunglasses. The stylish yet affordable designs are sure to catch your eye – and a little of your heart: the brand supports a core mission of positive social impact with its Buy One Give One system, whereby each sale funds a pair of reading glasses for the NGO RestoringVision.

8. Le Bon Marché

The oldest department store in town, Le Bon Marché is a landmark of Parisian shopping. The warm atmosphere of the central hall and the floors, in which you can happily get lost, invites potential buyers to stroll around and shop in complete tranquillity. High-end luxury brands, chic stationery and the most wonderful delicatessen and grocer’s shops won’t let anyone leave without a big bag.

9. Librairie Galignani

Since opening its doors in 1801, the first English bookshop on the European continent has continuously been a haven for book lovers, offering a rich selection of art books and the best of classic and contemporary fiction and poetry. The high ceiling, wooden shelves and warm ambience make for a wonderfully soothing shopping experience. To round off a break from the bustling city centre, the famous Café Angelina next door is a real treat.

10. Oriza Parfums

The beautiful boutique of one of the oldest perfumers in Paris is the ideal place to shop for a royal souvenir. Founded in 1720 during the reign of Louis XV by the perfumer and distiller to the king and his ménage, Oriza offers emblematic fragrances and bottles that strike a perfect balance between the past and present. Their scents of incense, lily, heliotrope, powdery jasmine and lily of the valley add an exquisite finishing touch to any elegant outfit.

Jetting off to Paris soon? You can find all your packing essentials in the Cathay Shop.