Ah, Paris - the city of romance, French pastries, fine dining, and shopping! ? Whether you're walking down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées to peek into luxury boutiques (and grab a view of the Arc de Triomphe while you're at it), or visiting the chic independent stores in Rue de Passy or Rue Saint Honoré we guarantee you'll leave the city with a heavier luggage than when you arrived. But it's not cheap to take a trip to Paris - so what brands are most worth it to buy while you're there? Well, we've done some digging and come up with a list of brands that are cheaper in Paris than back home! Time to start saving up for an unforgettable shopping spree!
How is it cheaper?
Quite simply: VAT refunds for NON-EU citizens
For non-EU citizens shopping in Europe, savings can still be considered though as they will be eligible for a tax refund. Bear in mind that currency exchange rates, varying tax amounts, service fees, and any import duties the respective countries may have will affect the overall price paid, and in turn, money saved.
#HHWT Tip: Time your trip to coincide with Paris' summer and winter sales to get the best possible offers! Sales are regulated in France so these are the only 2 periods when you'll find brands having major discounts. The 2024 winter sale will run from 8 Jan 2024 - 6 Feb 2024 and you can expect longer shopping hours at major department stores and malls too. The summer sale is expected to run from 24 Jun 2023 - 21 Jul 2023.
(Ultra) Luxury brands that are cheaper in Paris
So many luxury houses were founded in France that we just had to dedicate a section of this list to them. ? While you can now find many of these at home, did you know that due to the lack of airfare or taxes, you might be able to buy a luxury item in Paris for up to 20% cheaper?? Luxury items are also famous for their longevity and high-quality - so think of it like an investment that only gets better with age! P.S. Going on a shopping spree across Europe? Here are 9 luxury brands that are cheaper in Europe and where to find them!
1. Louis Vuitton
If you're shopping in Paris, one of the luxury brands you've got to visit is definitely Louis Vuitton. Founded in 1854, LV is famous worldwide for its iconic monogram which appears on almost all of its items - particularly its bags. Their wide range of items even includes shoes, perfumes, and ready-to-wear apparel so if you're an LV fan you can try picking up a statement piece or a statement outfit!
Flagship Address: Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme, 2, place Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10AM - 7PM (Mon-Sat), 12PM - 7PM (Sun). Closed on 1 Jan, 1 May, and 25 Dec.
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2.
If we're talking about classic French elegance and chic, there can truly be no other name than Chanel. Founded in 1910, this fashion house has everything in its stable from haute couture to a ready-to-wear range to makeup and even skincare. With feminine charm inspired by menswear, Chanel's pieces have remained a mainstay in every wardrobe for their eternal charm. Not to mention the iconic Chanel No. 5 perfume which has been going strong since 1921!
Flagship Address: Chanel Parfums Beauté 19 Cambon, 19 Rue Cambon, 75001 Paris, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10AM - 7PM (Mon-Sat), 11AM - 7PM (Sun)
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3. Givenchy
Givenchy has been known for its fashion and fragrances for decades. Founded in 1952, the classic Givenchy style marries traditional silhouettes with details inspired by the casual trends of today. With pieces that go from street style to high street, here's where you'll find a statement piece that takes today's chic must-have trends to the next level.
#HHWT Tip: Apart from flagship stores, you can also head to major shopping streets and malls such as the Galeries Lafayette. Click here for 9 of the best places in Europe to find your next great luxury catch!
Flagship Address: 28, Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, 75008 Paris, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10AM - 7PM (Mon-Sat), 1PM - 7PM (Sun)
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4. Saint Laurent (YSL)
Compared to the classic elegance of other fashion houses, the pieces created by YSL were outrageous for the time, such as crocodile-embossed leather, patent leather trench coats, or tuxedo jackets as womenswear. Even today, YSL's pieces aren't afraid to make a statement and are the perfect touch to make your own outfit stand out from the crowd.
Flagship Address: Avenue Montaigne, 53, Avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10.30AM - 7.30PM (Mon-Sat), 1PM - 7PM (Sun). Special opening hours on 22 Dec 2019 (11AM - 7PM) and 24 Dec 2019 (10.30AM - 6PM).
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5. Christian Louboutin
The first thing you think of when you hear 'Louboutin' is definitely their iconic stiletto heel with a bright red sole. Despite only being founded in 1991, that bold red has become a Louboutin signature, appearing on shoes, bags, clothing, accessories, and even makeup! ? The combination of bold, classy glamour with sturdy high-quality materials is what makes a Louboutin so appealing even today.
Flagship Address: Christian Louboutin Paris Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 19 rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001 Paris, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10.30AM - 7PM (Mon-Sat), closed on Sundays. Special opening hours on 15, 22, and 29th Dec (12PM - 6PM) and 24, and 31st Dec (10.30AM - 4.30PM).
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6. Dior
Having pioneered groundbreaking womenswear looks since the 1940s that balance masculine elements with a feminine touch, Dior has continued to showcase a feminine silhouette even while keeping up with the trends. Whether you're carrying a LadyDior bag or using one of their signature scents, you're sure to make a strong and elegant statement!
Flagship Address: Dior - Paris Champs-Élysées, 127, avenue des champs-elysées, Paris 75008, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10AM - 8PM (Mon-Sat), 11AM - 8PM (Sun)
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7. Cartier
French luxury houses aren't just known for clothing and shoes! One of the most famous luxury houses is definitely Cartier, which has sold jewellery and watches ever since 1847. Owning a Cartier is a dream for many - and with the high-quality craftsmanship, it could even be a watch that gets passed down through the generations! P.S. Planning to skip Paris and visit its cousin across the English Channel instead? Here are 15 brands that are cheaper in London than back home!
Flagship Address: Cartier Paris Boutique - 23 Place Vendôme, 23 place Vendôme, Paris 75001, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 11AM - 7PM (Thurs-Sat, Mon), 11AM - 6PM (Sun), 11AM - 5PM (Tues), closed on Wednesdays.
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8. Hermès
Hermès bags have always been in demand, but their name and profile have only increased in recent years. Due to that, the flagship store in Paris has actually had to install an appointment system to deal with overwhelming demand! Visitors intending to buy an item will have to get a queue number - though the boutique opens at 10.30AM, the line can start as early as 8AM. Your assigned ticket will include a specific timing when you can return for your appointment, but beware that popular items may quickly run out of stock! Still, if you're a fan of their leather goods and can afford to spend a day lingering around the area, it's worth a shot to try and get your hands on an iconic Birkin.
Flagship Address: Hermès Paris Faubourg Saint Honoré, 24, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris 75008, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10.30AM - 7PM (Mon-Sat), closed on Sundays.
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9. Lancôme
Luxury products aren't just wearable - there's luxury skincare too! Lancôme is a luxury brand under L'Oreal that has become known for certain products that just seem to work for everyone. ? Their Hypnose mascara, Ultra Wear foundation, and La Vie Est Belle perfumes are just some of the names that have made them famous worldwide. Their brand-new flagship store in Champs-Elysees takes the skincare and beauty experience to the next level with personalization services and even masterclasses by Lancôme makeup artists!
Flagship Address: 52, avenue des Champs-Elysées, Paris 75008, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: Open daily until 9.30PM.
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10. Guerlain
Guerlain is one of the oldest fragrance, cosmetics, and skincare houses in the world - it was founded in 1828! Many of their signature fragrances have a story behind them, including the Shalimar (named after the garden in Lahore built by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal), and Mitsouko (named after the Japanese heroine in the novel La Bataille). If you're looking for a signature scent, you just might find one here!
#HHWT Tip: Excited to explore Europe? Check out our itineraries for ideas for a 7D6N London-Paris, 8D7N Switzerland, or 7D6N London (on a budget) trip!
Flagship Address: 68, avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris 75008, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10.30AM - 11PM (Mon-Sat), 12PM - 8PM (Sun)
Luxury/high-end brands that are cheaper in Paris
11. Longchamp
If you can't afford a Birkin or LadyDior - don't worry because we understand! There are still many other French brands that boast a legacy of excellent craftsmanship and good-quality pieces, such as the popular Longchamp. Founded in 1948, the brand's leather goods are world-known and include signatures such as the Le Pliage bag which has been made in so many colours, fabrics, and patterns that it's become a line of its own.
Flagship Address: 77 avenue des Champs-Elysees, Paris 75008, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: Open daily; 10AM - 7PM
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12. Celine
Celine is another ready-to-wear luxury brand that can be found across the world, but its standout product is definitely its sunglasses! From the classic cat-eye to butterfly or oversized frames, their glasses are the perfect touch for any outfit. ?All the better for exploring the streets of Paris on your holiday!
Flagship Address: Celine Montaigne Paris, 53 Avenue Montaigne, Paris 75008, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: 10AM - 7.30PM (Mon-Sat), 11AM - 7PM (Sun)
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13. Promod
Did you know that Promod actually started in France? It was originally a family-run boutique founded in 1975, but can now be found worldwide! Promod's pieces are good for any occasion, so if you want to fly to Paris with a half-empty suitcase and buy your holiday outfits there - this is the place to go!
Address: There are several outlets located across Paris.
Opening Hours: Do check a specific outlet's opening hours before visiting, as they may vary.
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14. Diptyque
One of the younger brands in the list, Diptyque has been around since the 1960s and has made its name in unisex scents that have more subtle, elegant notes. They've since branched out into beauty products, and even candles and home products to leave your house smelling like a dream. ☺️ Their candle holders and fragrance bottles are also easily recognized by their distinct designs - you can reuse the empty containers to keep a touch of French chic on your shelves!
Flagship Address: Diptyque Saint Germain, 34, Boulevard Saint Germain, Paris 75005, France. There are also several outlets located across Paris.
Flagship Opening Hours: Open daily; 10AM - 7PM. Special opening hours on 15, 22, and 29th Dec (10AM - 7PM).
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15. Delsey
Not enough space in your luggage? Time to pick up a new one at Delsey! One of the biggest worldwide names in luggage, you can find everything from backpacks to carry-on's to full-size large suitcases from this French brand. Their fabrics are 100% recycled, and their signature lightweight hard-shell frames are dependable no matter what your journey brings.
Address: You can find Delsey at several points of sale across Paris.
Opening Hours: Do check a specific outlet's opening hours before visiting, as they may vary.
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16. POLÈNE
This new designer brand is getting popular in the past few years. It's affordable luxury with its top-end leather goods. It's based in Paris and they currently only have one store there!
Address: 69, rue de Richelieu, 75002 Paris
Opening hours: 11am to 7.30pm.
18. Jacquemus
Jacquemus has been one of the most popular brands in recent years. Their infamous ‘Le Chiquito’ bag is becoming as famous and recognizable as the Balenciaga ‘City’, Louis Vuitton ‘Speedy’, or the Mulberry ‘Lily’ bag. If you’re looking to add a modern icon to your closet, a Jacquemus bag is one option that you don’t want to overlook. And, the best part is, Jacquemus' flagship store is in Paris!
Address: 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris, France
Opening hours: 10am - 7.30pm (Daily)
18. Skincare
Before K-beauty and vegan beauty became the 'It' trends for skincare and cosmetics, there was French beauty! French skincare and cosmetic products have always had a good reputation worldwide for their reliability, as well as high-quality products that are suitable even for the driest, most sensitive skin.
P.S. Do check the ingredients list for any sensitive ingredients before purchasing. None of these brands are currently halal-certified, although they may have products that use Muslim-friendly ingredients. Do purchase at your own discretion.
Avene, Uriage and Biotherm are three such brands that are known for being gentle on the skin, and if you have sensitive skin with some very specific needs it's worth stocking up on their serums and moisturizers while you're in Paris! While they can be found at home too, the selections are limited compared to what's on display in Paris. So do your research before arriving, and head to their stores to pick up something you won't be able to find at home!
Vichy and La Roche-Posay are also on the radar for skincare enthusiasts worldwide. Both brands receive input from dermatologists during the formulation process, resulting in specific products that can target unique needs. It also helps that the water used by both brands has healing properties too! Vichy uses thermal spa water processed through volcanic rock, and La Roche-Posay uses thermal spring water from the French countryside.
Where to buy them: Many of these brands can be found in pharmacies or department stores across Paris. For budget-friendly options, there are discount pharmacies such as Citypharma, Pharmacie Monge, or Marionnaud but you can also head to major malls like Galeries Lafayette for a wider range of products. If you're visiting the city of love (or lights!), make sure to spend some time strolling through the Champs-Elysees and grand boulevards to take a look at the boutiques lining the streets. Even if you're just window shopping, we guarantee it'll be a magical experience - there's truly nowhere else like Paris!