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
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
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 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
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
Anna Lowe
— Popular with tourists, some designer and ready-to-wear. English speaking attendants in the store,the owner is American. If you are in this fashionable area worth a peek but some of the stock was very dated however is constantly changing and who knows what might be in store -- a little Valentino suit? Adjacent to the Bristol Hotel which is also worth a visit. Open Monday to Saturday 10am till 7pm.
Also in this area 'Annexe des createurs 19 rue Godot de Mauroy (9th).
Metro: Madeleine
www.annalowe.com
104 rue du Faubourg St. Honore, 8th
La Piscine in the Marais
— Down a little laneway, this rather large store stocks good quality brands like Armani, D&G, Chloe and their own 'La Piscine' brand. Some items waving up to 70% reductions.
Tuesday to Sunday 10.30 - 7.30pm
Monday 1pm to 7.30pm
13 rue des Francs-Bourgeois, t: 01 48 87 59 24
J'y Troque dépôts-ventes
— For the ultra-luxe brands, second time around clothing, bags and shoes for brands like - Comme des Garçons, Helmut Lang, Prada, Donna Karan. Open Monday to Friday 11am - 7pm. Closed weekends unless you call ahead.
7 rue Villedo, 75001, 1st t: 01 42 86 00 26