TRAVEL DIARIES: PARIS, FRANCE // PART TWO

After being in Paris for a couple of days, wandering the streets, overindulging on wine and having long, leisurely meals at outdoor cafes, my husband and I decided to spend an entire day shopping. I know — an entire day? But with all of the inspiring shops on every corner of that magical city —  it was necessary.

Now, I have a disclaimer: I didn’t go to Paris to shop. I’m not really a Louis Vuitton or Chanel kinda gal (not that I would refuse something given to me…) but my style tends to be a lot more laid-back and easy — and less luxury or fancy. That being said, the idea of shopping in Paris didn’t sound all that fun. I felt like I would be intimidated at the high-fashion and super high-prices. But fortunately, there’s something for everyone in Paris. And even though I went the entire day without purchasing a single item (don’t ask me how), I was so full of inspiration. And that was enough.

We started at a beyond-beautiful shop called Merci in the heart of the historic Haut-Marais district. The aim of this shop is to bring together, under one roof, products and customers who traditionally haven’t had the change to meet: vintage furniture + contemporary, modern pieces; emerging new fashion brands + recognized collections;  affordable, impulse buys + much more expensive, limited and rare pieces. It’s seriously all there. And it’s seriously ALL SO BEAUTIFUL.

Our next stop: Colette. We had heard it was Paris’ cult store, hosting an incredible selection of merchandise — everything from high-tech toys, magazines, furniture, jewelry and luxury men’s and women’s apparel. While we were there, there was a limited-time art exhibition by artist Robert Montgomery that pretty much blew my mind.

(Artist above can be found here.)

Our last retail spot for the day was a tiny little boutique called Cuisse De Grenouille that we stumbled upon by accident. It’s a new French accessories brand dedicated to men, and they sell surfboards in the heart of the city! My husband bought a “surf in paris” shirt, which I thought was pretty dang cute.

Alright, so at this point in the day, we were pretty parched. And it just so happens that our dear friends and power-couple Raan (creative director at Apolis) and Lindsay (founder of Alchemy Works) were also in Paris. We met them for champagne and french fries — which I’m convinced is the world’s best combo — at the most lovely little spot called Cafe Charlot.  Highly recommend!

And just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better: we headed to a late-night reservation at Derriere, an apartment-style restaurant with eclectic decor and wholesome French cuisine.

Yes, it was a great day.