Treasure hunting in Paris
Thank God I’m a VIP (Image courtesy of FashionNetwork.com
We recently headed to Paris for a fashion packed three days which of course included a spot of vintage shopping. Here are our favourite vintage and preloved hotspots as recommended by us and our Retold community.
Happy treasure hunting everyone!
Thank God I’m a VIP - £££
One word - iconic! Spread across two stores (menswear and womenswear), Thank God Im a VIP is a treasure trove of vintage and has become some what of a mecca in Paris. A broad selection of clothing, accessories and even bridal means you can easily while away the hours here and find something to suit everyone. Pieces have been lovingly cared for and we love the colour block merchandising. We also spotted some designer gems with standout pieces from Chanel and YSL.
Merguiller Paris - £££
Tucked away on a quiet street is the fabulous Merguiller Paris. Small but perfectly formed this store has a beautiful selection of vintage pieces ranging from the 1920’s to the 1980’s. Pieces are available for sale and for hire. Expect vintage from the french power houses; we spotted gems from Courreges, Hermes and plenty of Mugler.
Tilt - £
Tilt vintage is known for its good quality vintage at affordable and accessible prices with pieces ranging from the 1960’s through to the 1990’s, . The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes this a firm favourite and it comes high on the list of great vintage shops in Paris. A perfect destination to grab a one off unique piece as well as the classics such as a Burberry mac and vintage Levi’s.
Chez Sarah - £££££
Visiting Chez Sarah is like stepping into a vintage wonderland. A go to for vintage collectors and film costume teams alike, Sarah’s collection of vintage is vast to say the least with a huge range of antique pieces as well as designer vintage (we love how its all arranged in category and to designer, making it super easy to explore). If you are looking for that extra special piece, or a rare item, Chez Sarah is the place to go and with over 40 years experience in vintage collecting you can guarantee quality and authenticity. Pure vintage magic.
Chez Sarah - Opening hours vary - check before you visit.
Falbalas - £££££
Located opposite Chez Sarah this is another treasure trove of antique and vintage pieces across a broad range of eras (some pieces date back to the 18th century!) with clothing, accessories and jewellery on offer. If you have a keen interest in vintage fashion and textile history in particular this is one to visit for sure. Located in Saint Ouen, add it to your flea market itinerary.
Falbalas / Opening hours vary - check before you visit.
Iglaine - £££
If you love your designer vintage this one is for you with a strong selection of covetable pieces from 20th century designers such as YSL, Balmain and Kenzo to Lacroix and Lanvin. Sourced across France and Europe expect high quality wearable pieces that will easily slip into a modern day wardrobe. You can also peruse their selections online.
Antiroulle - ££
A beautiful vintage boutique that sells a range of vintage clothing, accessories and sunglasses from the early 1900s through to the 1980s. We spotted some beautiful 70’s prairie dresses and fun 50’s pieces all in a range of very accessible price points. Located in Rochechouart this is also a stones throw away from the fabulous Pigalle district and after the treasure hunting re-fuel at the fabulous Season restaurant - just a 5 min walk away.
Vintage Clothing Paris - ££££
Located on the edge of La Marais this is a must visit destination for 20th century fashion aficionado’s. Expect a slick edit of beautiful pieces from modern icons such as Issy Miyake, Margiela and CDG as well as collectible treats from Alaia and Paco Rabanne. Swoooon!
and if after all that you fancy a good old flea market …
Les Puces de Saint Ouen
Located in the northern Paris, this is said to be one of the largest flea markets with over 2000 stalls. Split into separate markets explore hundreds of traders that specialise in art, furniture, clothing and bric a brac. If you love nothing better than a good rummage this is for you! The market is open every week on Saturday, Sunday and Monday (although rumour has it select traders will also open on Fridays). If you are serious about your treasure hunting and want to get there early , we discovered the fabulous new Mob hotel which is located close by and in the heart of the action.
Some research before you go is always beneficial as these large scale flea markets can feel overwhelming - we have found these useful:
Main cover image description and credit: Tina Turner wearing Azzedine Alaïa spring/summer 1989 for Stern magazine in Paris, 1989 Photographed by Peter Lindbergh.