When I said I was moving to Paris for three months, those who know me well were worried for me. I’m a city girl, so adapting to the hustle and bustle of this little métropole (metropolis) wasn’t a concern. They knew I’d adapt eventually, and I totally have.
My friends, my family and (especially) my husband were all concerned that Paris would prove to be a frenetic playground on which I’d wield my stash of credit cards. They were worried I’d arrive with two suitcases and return with seven, stocked to the brim with pricey designer fashions and cool vintage finds. I promised everyone, especially my husband, that I’d closely monitor my passion for shopping (including my ongoing quest for the perfect handbag), focusing on the bare necessities and perhaps, from time to time, a great deal.
Of course, while visiting Le Bon Marche, I lost myself for a moment. Everything was so pretty that I almost convinced myself that a soft blue scarf with a €245 price tag was, in fact, a steal. Whoever said you could find a steal in Paris was either a true local or a very well informed touriste (tourist).
To ensure I fit into one of those categories, I paid an initial visit to Le Marché aux Puces in Saint-Ouen. As the world’s largest flea market, Le Marché aux Puces is filled with every sort of find, from furniture and clothes to books and house wares, and on occasion, a great deal. On this visit, I examined my options. After a little more hunting across the city, I’ll return to Saint-Ouen, with deals (and steals) in mind. Until then, here are some of my favorite finds.
If you plan to visit Paris soon and love to shop the flea markets as well, look me up – I’d love a shopping partner-in-crime!
Looking for more insight on flea market shopping in France? Check out Erica Berman’s interview of Claudia Strasser, interior decorator and Parisian flea market shopper extraordinaire.
Written by Maggie Battista for the HiP Paris Blog. Looking for a fabulous vacation rental in Paris, Provence, or Tuscany? Check out Haven in Paris.
WRITTEN BY
Maggie Battista
Passionate about fine dining and old-fashioned hospitality, Maggie is focused on finding hidden, authentic food gems and is absolutely in love with the creamy, salty butter sold all over Paris. She also runs an online magazine and market called Eat Boutique, where she discovers the best small batch foods by boutique food makers. Maggie’s based in Boston, with frequent trips to Paris, Brooklyn, Maine, and northern California.
I picked up a beautiful antique wooden table from a Parisien flea market last week. The real challenge of course is not to buy more than you’re able to take home!
Les Puces is great, have been to Paris 30 times for business, but only last fall managed to make some time for a visit at Les puces.
Great finds!
http://lumolifestyle.blogspot.com/2009/09/flea-markets-at-porte-de-clignancourt.html
http://lumolifestyle.blogspot.com/2010/01/honorary-prize.html
http://lumolifestyle.blogspot.com/2009/12/stylish-price-tag.html
http://lumolifestyle.blogspot.com/2009/10/turn-switch-pls.html
I adore Les Puces. I’ve found many treasured possessions there over the years. I first went there 35 years ago, with my grandmother, who bought a huge Belgian chiming clock.
About 12 years later, as a young fashion fan, I found myself a gorgeous Hermes Kelly box leather handbag for just $15. Sure it needed some work – but not much. This is not something that you can count on, but the treasure hunt is the joy of Les Puces.
If you find a seller who seems to have a nice range of luxury goods, always ask if they have anything that isn’t on display! Most have stashed boxes of scarves, costume jewelry and other accessories.
Ooh, I love those wood with green chairs! And the letters and the little leather goose with big stitches. Would be fun to browse with you and a big latte! Can’t wait to hear more…
I’ll be your shopping partner in a few weeks!!