American Influence: The Brooklyn Hipster in Paris

"Brooklyn Mania" has officially arrived in Paris with the exhibition “Brooklyn Rive Gauche” at Le Bon Marché, happening at the luxury department store until October 17. The event displays various items inspired by Brooklyn fashion, everything from graphic tees and eco-friendly beauty products to dog accessories (think crocheted cheeseburger dog toys artisanally made by Nepalese women). In addition, La Grande Epicerie has jumped on board, pairing brunch dishes, such as salmon bagels or eggs benedict, with Brookyln Brewery’s summer ale.

 The irony of Bon Marché bringing in “Brooklyn Rive Gauche” lies in the fact that the famed Parisian department store is the exact opposite of what Brooklyn culture is so proud of and the opposite of what makes Paris Paris. Although the fashion retail legend emphasizes that they are bringing in certain Brooklyn designers and fashion lines, Le Bon Marché still epitomizes big business and designer name fashions. Although hipsters notably love their irony, it’s a bit sad that even Brooklyn’s traditional rejection of brands in favor of local and artisanal products has become somewhat of a brand in itself.

 “Brooklyn Mania” has officially solidified the importation of the American hipster to Paris, an observation that has inspired considerable debate about Paris vs. New York and the globalization of trends. The Brooklynite has arguably come to embody the American hipster; their countercultural alternative ideals usually stemming from anti-commercial roots, preferring trendy niche alternatives to big brand powerhouses.  

Brooklyn has recently become a buzzword for the French; the unique American subculture becoming iconic. This trend extends much beyond the exhibition at Bon Marché. It seems that urban hipster culture has struck a chord in Paris in a big way, with minimal, earthy style being the new mode de vivre. It seems there are increasingly more New York influenced hotspots in Paris, from industrial-style restaurants serving gastronomically hip meals to bearded servers in suspenders serving up the latest egg white cocktail. Although this importation of American culture perhaps adds a certain energy and approachability to such a traditional city, it remains somewhat dommage that hipster hotspots are taking the place of more traditional Parisian bistros and brasseries. 

[Photo: juliaetmax.com]