Some of the most enjoyable moments in Paris happen purely by accident. You look up and see something that takes your breath away. This post includes a number of destinations that I found more by accident than planning, but thoroughly enjoyed once I discovered them. All of them are located in central Paris.
1. Repetto: A French ballet shoe company that makes shoes for dancers and ballet flats for fashion-lovers. I love the genuine theater feel of this store. Located near the Opera Garnier, Repetto is located on the Rue de la Paix and features displays of tutus and pink satin that are so beautiful. For those that love well-made ballet flats, these are beautifully made leather. They’re gorgeously made with thin, elegant soles and a breathtaking range of colors.
On the day I went by, there were tutu’s on display in the front window that appeared to be leaping across a stage:
2. Laduree – makers of extraordinary macarons. Although every French macaron I’ve tried has been delicious, there is something so wonderful about the Laduree variety. My favorite this summer– Caramel Fleur de Sel– a sweet and salty confection that brings together the best of both worlds.
Sometimes I secretly wish one of my friends would get married, so I could persuade them to have a macaron wedding cake. Is that taking love of macarons too far?
3. Make Up For Ever- Paris My first real introduction to Make Up For Ever was in the Sephora Paris about ten years ago. Since then, the line has invaded the U.S., much to my delight. Here is the Make Up For Ever boutique in Paris, which is tucked away several blocks from the Arc de Triomphe:
How lovely and old world is this courtyard? How cutting-edge is the makeup inside? I love the contrast.
4. Louis Vuitton boutiques: There are several Louis Vuitton locations throughout Paris, and the service in each one that I’ve encountered has been excellent. Here is one on the Champs Elysse, typically the busiest of them, with a line outside most of the time:
5. Chanel: There are at least three Chanel stand-alone boutiques in central Paris, but only one original boutique in the entire world. This is at 31 Rue Cambon, where Coco Chanel began her design career and the company’s home has remained here through the present:
Always pristine, always welcoming, always beautiful. Always Chanel.
6. Lancome boutique: On the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, there are several incredible boutiques, including Hermes, Yves St. Laurent, Dolce & Gabbana. For makeup lovers, a visit to the Lancome boutique is a treat. It’s spacious and serene, and of course stocked with European versions of Lancome’s products.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this brief stroll among some of these lovely destinations in Paris. All photographs are mine.
I’ll be posting reviews (but if you want a head start, this Bronzer Brush is to die for). I cannot say that I’ve loved everything I’ve tried, but trust me this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
