Affordable Fashion Shopping in Paris: My Favorite Finds (Updated)
I always save room in my suitcase to do some shopping in Paris. Though many larger brands are now available globally and online, I like to shop for brands and styles I can’t find at home. Many of you have asked for suggestions for more affordable places to shop for fashion in Paris, so I’ve rounded up a few of my favorites. And, on the heels of my recent visit, I’ve added some new finds!
This article was previously published on May 27, 2025 and has been updated to include additional brands and images.
How to Shop Like a Parisian (Without the Designer Price Tag)
With Paris being one of the (or THE) top fashion capitals of the world, you’ll find plenty of high end designer boutiques in most of the central arrondissements. But you don’t see many Parisians trotting around in head-to-toe designer outfits (or if they are, they’re subtle, under-the-radar pieces). I’m sure most Parisiennes of more modest means have favorite one-off shops. But as a visitor I’ve sussed out a few accessible favorites of my own.
(While I realize everyone has their own definition of “affordable,” my frame of reference for the purpose of this post is prices comparable to US brands like J.Crew, Madewell, Talbot’s, Gap.)
Where to Shop for Fashion & Accessories in Paris
Comptoir des Cotonniers
This is a chain, and you’ll find stores of various sizes all over Paris (and in other parts of France). I *always* make a point to visit while I’m here, and usually find something that works for me. They have great simple casual basics in natural fibers. And they often have “x% off” promotions.
The sales associates are friendly and helpful. Sizing varies by item, but I find most to be generally true-to-size.
Caroll
Caroll is another chain with some great basics at reasonable prices. (Think Talbots or Boden, but French.) They were a lifesaver when we were in Paris during a canicule (extreme heat wave) a few years ago. I was able to find some linen trousers and tops that kept me (more) comfortable in the heat.
They have several shops in Paris, and also have periodic promotions.
Balzac Paris
Founded in 2014, Balzac Paris is a certified B Corp with a focus on sustainable, Made-in-France fashion — and the designs are effortlessly Parisian. Leopard print is a recurring theme both in stores and in their clothing and accessories collections, so 🐆 fans will find plenty to love.
I was really impressed with their handbags, too…lots of really good-looking and functional designs. As with many of these brands, the prices in France are lower than in the U.S.
(The store was too busy on my last visit to be able to get good photos, so these are from their website.)
Merci
Merci is a unique “concept store” in the Marais, which sells not only clothing but gifts and housewares. Clothing styles skew Bohemian, and prices range from budget-friendly to “bridge.” Think Anthropologie, but with a wide range of brands.
It’s a fun space to browse through, and there’s a nice cafe if you get peckish.
It’s also a good place to find little unique gifts to bring home.
Jimmy Fairly
Paris is brimming with eyewear boutiques offering everything from timeless classics to bold, fashion-forward styles you won’t find anywhere else. For affordable, stylish frames that are also well-crafted, I always recommend Jimmy Fairly. I’ve picked up a few pairs over the years, and they’ve all held up beautifully. There are several locations around the city, but I usually stop by the one near Saint Sulpice (which has recently expanded into a larger space).
Monoprix
No, really! The larger Monoprix stores have quite a wide selection of clothing and accessories. If you need something in a pinch (and on a budget) they’re definitely worth checking out. (Le Monsieur bought a couple of Monoprix linen shirts on one of our earlier visits, which he wore for several years.)
I always pick up a few of their re-usable nylon shopping bags for gifts and to keep in the car.
Sézane
Yes, you can shop online from the US, and we even have a few stores now, but it’s so much fun going to the original l’appartement, and you’ll find prices are slightly lower there.
It can get quite crowded, so I suggest visiting in the morning.
It’s a charming emporium, with clothing, bags, shoes, accessories…all with a Parisian attitude. They also have a smaller — and usually much less crowded — shop on Rue du Bac in the 7th arrondissement.
Cecile & Jeanne
I first discovered this French jewelry brand online a few years ago, but it’s much more fun to shop in person. They have a lovely collection of pieces from delicate to bold. I really love their “earring parties,” earring styles that can be worn in multiple combinations. You can find many lovely pieces under 100 euros.
They have a few locations throughout Paris; my new favorite is their beautiful boutique in Place des Vosges.
Doré Doré
One of my “musts” in Paris is a visit to Doré Doré. They have simply the BEST socks.
Yes, you can find cheaper socks, but the quality is outstanding and the designs and colors are so fun. I especially love their lightweight cotton socks, and have purchased several pairs over the years. They wear like iron, even when put in the dryer.
These make great gifts too, and don’t take up much room in your suitcase. Doré Doré carries women’s, mens, and children’s hosiery of all kinds.
Maria de la Orden
I first became aware of this brand last year when they kept popping up in my Instagram feed. Their cozy shop at 38 rue de l’Université was near my hotel on that visit, so I made a beeline upon arrival.
If you like fun, colorful styles with a bit of a “folkloric” vibe, you should definitely visit this shop. Prices are (full-price) J.Crew/Talbot’s range, the fabrics are lovely, and the clothes seem to be well-made.
Not Just Fashion: Beauty, Gifts & Unique Finds
CityPharma
This legendary pharmacie is almost always packed, and the aisles are narrow, but it’s worth the lines and the squeeze. If you’re looking for the best drugstore beauty buys, be sure to ask one of the knowledgeable staff for recommendations (you can’t miss them in their white coats). Also great prices on many OTC meds. I always stock up on Ibuprofen, Maalox tablets, and such, which are usually much less expensive than in the US.
Pylones
If you’re looking for colorful, whimsical housewares and personal items, or unique gifts to bring home, you must take a look at Pylones! Everything in the store is so fun and vibrant (and affordable!) that it’s almost impossible to leave empty-handed.
There are a few locations in Paris, including in the Carrousel du Louvre and Rue du Bac.
The Department Stores Where Parisians Actually Shop
Yes, the big department stores will have the most variety, but they can also be quite crowded. Best times to visit are mornings early in the week. My two favorite department stores are Le Bon Marché in the 7th (relatively upscale, great spot for chic people watching) and BHV in the Marais (you’ll find just about everything here from clothing to luggage to hardware to kitchen gadgets).
Also: don’t miss La Grande Épicerie next door to LBM…an amazing gourmet market and food hall!
How to Save Even More: Détaxe, Sales & Credit Card Tips
Don’t forget to ask about Détaxe (tax-free) paperwork on any purchases totaling over 100 euros*. If you live outside the EU you can get a refund on the VAT tax that’s automatically included in the price of most items.
- When you’ve finished shopping, ask for forms.
- You’ll need to have your passport with you at the point of purchase to get the forms.
- If you’ve paid by credit card, you can request that the refund (usually around 10-12%) go directly back to the card used.
- Be sure to scan the form(s) they provide before you leave the EU! (There are machines at the airports and Eurostar stations, and usually a customs officer standing by to help if you have any difficulties.)
- It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for the refund to go through.
When paying by credit card, if you’re offered an option to pay in US dollars or Euros (or other local currency), always choose the local currency. You’ll get a better exchange rate that way. Many credit cards also offer no foreign transaction fees; those are the ones you’ll want to travel with.
You may find some new favorite shops just by strolling around and seeing what catches your eye in the windows. Prices for items in window displays will be posted, so you’ll know even before entering the shop what to expect.
What to Expect in Parisian Shops: Etiquette & Service Tips
Big seasonal clearance sales (les soldes) are strictly mandated by French law to a few weeks per year in summer and winter, though some brands get around that with “special promotions” (usually a % off select items, or BOGO type discount).
Be sure to say “Bonjour (madame or monsieur)” when you enter a shop. In most shops, the sales staff will want to help you take things off racks or shelves, so ask before you pick something up or try it on. It’s perfectly OK to tell a sales associate “je veux y réfléchir,” (I want to think about it) if you’re not ready to make a purchase. (And we’ve found that most sales associates speak English, or enough of it to be able to answer questions.)
Happy shopping!
This article was previously published at on October 16, 2024, and May 27, 2025, and has been updated to add more destinations.
*This can vary by country or shop. Just ask an associate what the minimum is.
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Ah! , would include galleries Lafayette. The view on the roof is free, and they have a terrific women and children’s vintage section.
Great pictures and valuable information! I did not see clothing with the huge puffy sleeves that I am seeing in so many boutiques and department stores in the US. Hopefully, this is a sign that they will soon disappear from our shelves!
Susan- are there any petite sized brands? I’m really short (4’11”) so petite clothes are a necessity. ( And I even have to shorten them! But at least I don’t spoil the style. Usually!)
This is very helpful. I’m heading to Paris and points south in a few weeks.
Thank you Susan! This is a goldmine ;-)! We usually stay at the Hotel Verneuil in Paris–I remember discovering Comptoir de Cotonniers when I went to Paris way back in 2003! My French is too rusty anymore but I can manage the niceties at least! Any recommendations for casual dining? I’m sure glad sneakers are acceptable now because my poor old feet wouldn’t be able to tolerate walking for hours in anything else! Loafers don’t work for me. Welcome home!
Thank you Susan! This article is the best,❤️ your breezy writing style!
I feel like I was shopping with you.
Enjoy a happy summer!!
I totally agree!
Is Hazelnut in the Betty cardigan a Blue Fall color?
Yes!
And even better for a Blue Autumn, check out the TerraCotta Crochet (Chestnut)!
Just one comment re. Merci. Went there in February after all the hype everywhere. I found it very very overpriced: yes, even for Paris and even for me who shops a lot!
On the other hand, Monoprix is a gold mine. I wear their necklaces all the time and some date back to 2004!
I thought Chatelles might be a shop for me, but no. Difficult feet in summer.
Beautiful list of shops, Susan.
Greetje
Wonderful article, Susan. Now to schedule a trip to Paris! Thank you for your shopping assistance. And, the wonderful photos of your travels.
Maybe it’s my lack of knowledge, but the Paris styles don’t look much different than any big city’s in the U.S. When I went to Paris last year, I wasn’t blown away by that fashion or food.
Hi Leslie, it’s true that style has become MUCH more globalized in the last 15 years or so. The biggest differences are often how pieces are combined and styled.
On one trip to Paris, I arrived but my bag didn’t. Monoprix saved my life. It was a full week before the bag showed up, but I found some cute and not expensive outfits to get me through.
I’m not even going to France and I found this a delightful read. But now I really want to go to Dore Dore and get some socks!
There is a Dore Dore online site with a large selection.
https://www.boulevard-dore.com/828-dore-dore-women-s-socks?page=1
Susan –
I loved this post!! It was unlike anything I see from the small group of women influencers I follow. Anymore, I refuse to watch videos that are a review of the same clothing lines done by so many youtubers. This was fresh, fun, informative, and yes – about Paris. Well done!!
I hit some of these but wish I had known about all of them a few weeks before my recent trip. Sézane was nuts in the afternoon but I did get another Betty cardigan. And was totally wowed by LBM Epicierie. Thanks for the list.
oh la la, the Maria de la Orden is now bookmarked!
I love BHV. They have great brands at reasonable price points.
The last time I was in Paris (wait, that’d be the only time) was in December 2008, and I wanted to pick up a gift for my hairdresser, and I wanted to find something made in France. I had the hardest time – everything said made in China! (It’s not just here!)
Finally I found a beautiful scarf in a boutique and she loved it. No idea where I got it. I also bought myself a beautiful shawl, which I still have.
Agree with your choices! I like Monoprix, Comptiors, and Galleries Lafayette Vintage section.
In Italy, la Rinasente department store, has a tax refund kiosk now , for automatic card refund on your purchase. (Upstairs by men’s shoes, as of 4/2025).
Thanks for a great report!
Thank you, Susan. Excellent suggestions. Would you be able to offer similar guidance for the South of France, like Aix and Nice? Many thanks, again.
I bought the Eiffel Tower toothbrushes which were a hit with the great nieces and nephews, along with the Marvis licorice toothpaste. Stocked up on the Monoprix shopping bags, but didn’t have time to get to the department stores or any of the shops listed above. The CityPharma did my head in with the crowds, and was surprised to find the prices for many items higher in Paris, than from the pharmacies at home which often have discounts. Your group tour looked like so much fun and glad everything went so well.
This reminds me of the days decades ago, when I shopped in Paris and held up a piece of clothing, asking whether they had that in “taille 44” (size 44) which is a Dutch 40 and a 10 / L in the USA. Perfectly normal size. The sales assistant looked at me in disgust and said: “Mais, non madame.” A very offensive no. Luckily they aren’t this arrogant anymore these days.
Greetje
They can’t afford to be, haha! But I am sorry you were treated that way…no excuse for it!
Yes, I would get the Eiffel Tower toothbrushes for my “greats” too. I am without kids and grandkids but lots of “greats” who I madly love!
I can vouch for Jimmy Fairly. My DH chose frames in the Marais shop, and the wild looking optometrist perfectly copied his progressive lenses from his glasses as we didn’t have the prescription with us. The glasses arrived at home a week later, no shipping charge. We did this in 2 different years! Perfect!
Wonderful post! Although I do not have a trip planned, we are due for a revisit (it will be our 7th). But it has been quite a while and most of your recommendations are new to me. This is a KEEPER of a post!
Wonderful information, Susan, and just in time. We leave this Saturday. I’m making a list of all your stores in my phone. The VAT refund explanation is really helpful, too. Merci!
I also like Gérard Darel for clothes, and Marionnaud during the soldes usually has some good deals on brands like Sisley, which I stock up on in France as it is less expensive than in the US.
Comptoir is a fave, as is Monoprix – I just picked up a lovely alpaca sweater there in December for 70€. I always hit rue de Commerce in the 15th, which has a Monoprix, a Comptoir, a Gérard Darel, and a huge pharmacy within a short walking distance. Sort of a Parisian version of a mall!
One thing I’ve found in many French clothing stores is that they have only one or a few of each item on the racks (you can see this in some of the photos above), often in small sizes, and you need to ask for the size you want which the sales associate will get from some place where the rest of the inventory is stored. For sizing, I’ve been told to take your usual US size and add 32; for example, a US 10 is a French 42. But I’ve found that I often need to drop a size down. I usually wear a size 10 at J. Crew, Madewell, etc. but at Sezane I bought size 40 and one blouse in size 38, so don’t be afraid to try other sizes.
I didn’t know this about converting to European sizes – thank you for the helpful tip!
Pylones!! This is the store for gadget lovers and souvenir hunters. You can find them all over France, if you can break away from Paris.
This is such a useful post. I’m pinning it for my next visit to France.
Each time I have been in France, I have sought out the local Caroll shop. I have found them throughout France, and always find a couple of lovely, well constructed, reasonably priced pieces.
Years ago I found the stores called one, two, three….une, deux, trois….which had nice and current styles. I still have a blouse in my closet that I wear. I understand they have expanded and are now Maison 123. Have you noticed them, and if so, have you checked out their current offerings?
Thank you Susan,this is a wonderful list! I adore Sezane and love the picture of you and Mary Ann! One day I hope to be back in Paris. Happy weekend 🙂
Thank you for this beautiful selection.
Many thanks for your posts, I really enjoy reading them As a long-time Parisian resident now living in the south this gave me the desire for a visit to Paris again. I love shopping on the rue de Passy in the 16th arrondissement when I go. It has everything on the one street and in the small surrounding streets — everything from Max Mara to Monoprix. My personal favourites are Cos, Bimba y Lola and Gerard Darel. There are many more medium-priced clothes shops — known brands, less-well known French brands and small independent designers. There are lots of restaurants, brasseries and boulangeries surrounding for having a coffee or a lunch. The Musée Marmottan (Monet) is nearby and well worth a visit.