A Guide to the best Concept Stores in Paris
When one thinks of influential concept stores, New York is the first place that comes to mind. These tailor-made stores offer shoppers multiple types of items with one centralized theme. Yet, after moving here, I think it is safe to argue that that Paris holds the key to the coolest collection of concept stores.
Below are five amazing stores that any promising fashionista should add to their little black book. From limited-edition collections to the best post-shopping snack, the compilation features something for everyone.
COLETTE
Starting from the mother of all concept stores, Sarah Lerfel’s Colette offers an eclectic mix of products; from high fashion hip hop accessories (including high tech and gold-plated IPhones) to cotton-threaded bracelets and all the latest magazine offerings, it is truly a modern paradise. It is credited as being one of the first stores in the world to stock Virgil Abloh’s clothing before the brand Off White became the label it is today.
Insider Tip: Walk down the stairs to the Water Bar where friendly waiters (look out for Yannick) will offer you over 100 types of water and a scrumptious menu of quiches, eggs and burgers. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up after tramping down Rue Saint Honore.
Colette
213 Rue Saint Honoré, 75001 Paris
+33 1 55 35 33 90
www.colette.fr
L’ECLAIREUR
The first concept store to land in Paris, this shop is where art meets fashion. As the name suggests in French, it showcases all the latest avant-garde pieces, imported from all over the world. The store itself can be described as an ever-changing art installation, where real life and fantasy meet.
Insider Tip: Although there are five locations across Paris, visit the Rue de Sévigné store for a truly unique shopping experience and ambiance.
L'Eclaireur
40 Rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris
+33 1 48 87 10 22
www.leclaireur.com/
FLEUX PARIS
Spread across four stores on one street, Fleux offers a wide range of charming homeware products and out-of-the-box gifts. Each store has a distinct style, so make sure to visit all four! From funky iPhone cases to unique jewelry pieces, Fleux offers a slightly different shopping experience from all the other stores on this list.
Insider Tip: If you’re looking for unique pieces for your home, the store offers good prices and great sales.
Fleux
39 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004 Paris
+33 1 42 78 27 20
en.fleux.com
CENTRE COMMERCIAL
Founded by the creators of trainer label Veja, the raw concrete walls and minimalistic aesthetic creates an eco-shopper haven, filled with trendy sustainable fashion pieces and artistic projects. Covered by a glass ceiling, the store offers many fashion collections from UK, Denmark and France, second hand bikes and vintage furniture. It is also known for their many different collaborations with up-and-coming artists within the fashion industry, creating a young and dynamic store vibe.
Insider Tip: Centre Commercial supports many environmental causes and opts to buy artisanal products; come by for a feel-good purchase!
Centre Commercial
2 Rue de Marseille, 75010 Paris
+33 1 42 02 26 08
www.centrecommercial.cc/en/
MERCI
Where once was an old wallpaper factory, now is one of the most influential concept stores of central Paris. Merci has a wide variety of products available; from interior design, to illumination/houseware and even first edition copies of great literature, this store has a way of appealing to a wide clientele. Great for people watching and located in the trendy Marais area, Merci is not one to be missed.
Insider Tip: Searching for the seemingly impossible good cup of coffee in Paris? Stop by Merci to sample a great cappuccino in one of the two cafes on offer.
Merci
111 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris
+33 1 42 77 00 33
www.merci-merci.com/
