I was intrigued to see how good the ‘warehouse’ stores of Paris might be. While nothing replaces the pleasure of being personally fitted for a designer suit in a luxurious ‘cabine’ at the Bon Marche, here’s another side to shopping, the hunt for a great ‘bargain’! If you can’t shop during the sales (February and August) when some items are reduced by 70% head to these great discount shopping streets for permanently discounted stock.
Discount designer shopping
Et Vous
— Normally quite expensive label, they have several stores across Paris and a rather large one on the rue de Rennes, the outlet offers several good quality Tshirts and cardigans but don't expect to find much else, their suits were very dated.
15 rue Turbigo, Etienne Marcel
Les 3 Marches de Catherine B
— In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this is where those who love Chanel and Hermès head each week to check out the new stock. If you are looking for either a 'Kelly' or "Birkin' Sac (seconds) or a Hermès scarf, this store is worth a visit. There are two stores side-by-side. One specialising in Louis Vuitton and Chanel and the other Hermès. Condition of stock is quite good.
www.catherine-b.com
1, rue Guisarde - 75006 Paris t:33 [0] 1 43 54 74 18
‘Shoes glorious shoes’ rue Meslay
— Rue Meslay if off the rue Temple If you are looking for some serious shoes head straight to No.13 rue Meslay, a warehouse full of Charles Jourdan and Langerfeld. There’s a huge variety and most are priced between 80 and €200. Problem is that too many tourists know about this store and they have big feet, (so I was told was the reason they didn’t have my size 39 or 40). However do try this store you might be in luck. While Charles Jourdan is in liquidation, they have enough stock here to last a couples of years.
Afterwards, you’ve got the whole street to explore. While visiting in Winter, leather boots were extremely well priced, starting from €75-150. No.44 is also worth noting, particularly for the Italian brand, Superga; lots of sneakers in groovy colours from €25. You’ll see lots of ‘copy’ shoes but the quality matches the price.
www.guardian.co.uk
M: République (then head towards rue du Temple)
Le Jupon Rouge
— This will appeal to the younger crowd looking for interesting non-classic designs; lots of upcoming and new designers. Go for Vanessa Bruno and vintage Ungaro.
Open: Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm with a one-hour lunch 1:30-2.30pm.
9 rue de Rochechouart, 9th
Griff’troc
— A great second-hand gear or as the French term it 'dépot-ventes' (does sound better. Expect some classic styles and slight discount a Chanel suit will still cost around 1000 euros (vs 5000 at the store) and you might find a chloe bag for around 800 euros. There are evening dresses from 1200 by Chloe and Dior and Hermes scarves at around 150 euors (it will only cost around 200 for a new one!)
M: Villiers, Monceau
www.griff-troc.fr
119, bd. Malesherbes t:01 45 61 19 47
Shopping rue Saint-Placide, St Germain-des-Pres
— If you tire of the big brands like ZARA, H&M, Espirit and NAF NAF on the rue de Rennes, then take a detour down this small street with some interesting designer ‘bargain bins’. There’s an oasis in the form of the ‘Bon Marche’ at the end of the street if you need to get back to 'luxe' shopping.
You’ll find discount designer stores mixed in with some other interesting labels. Recommended are: 'Comme des Femmes' – an interesting mix of Ralph Lauren, Gianfranco Ferre and some nice Lyle and Scott sweaters. From the exterior it doesn’t entice but is worth a look.
Opposite is somewhat an institution for Parisians; 'Mouton à Cinq Pattes', they have three stores all in the same street. You may struggle to find larger sizes (40-44). No. 45 is good for shoes; spotted were some Chloe loafers and Marc Jacobs, under 200 euros. Work suits and basics can be found the ‘Caroll’ warehouse. Lots of well-priced shirts and tops. Worth a detour.
www.mouton-a-cinq-pattes.info
Miss Griffes
— This two storey boutique has some great finds but you have to sort through lots of old garments before you might find something suitable. Go here for leather and fur brands like Armani, Lacroix, Ungaro, discount up to 50%.
Metro: Miromesnil
19 rue de Penthievre (8th)
Depot-Ventre 17th
— Lot of the big names, Chanel, Hermes, Prada, Chloe -- bags, accessories, shoes. Prices yes, discounted but make sure you check with the actual shops so you know by how much they are discounted and for further bargaining power. You can view most items online which helps.
Metro: Passy
www.depot-vente-paris.fr
14-16 rue de la Tour