Eight Women, One Week in Paris: A Fashion Tour to Remember
Mix eight curious, style-loving women with one of the world’s most beautiful cities, top with a dollop of perfect weather, and what do you get? Nothing short of magic — the kind that stays with you long after you’ve unpacked. ✨ ✨ ✨
A Dream Itinerary — The Best of Both Worlds
Last year when Emma from Tour With Absolutely contacted me to ask if I’d be interested in putting together a Paris Fashion Tour, I didn’t have to think about it for long before saying “oui! ” It was something I’d dreamed of doing — and my readers had been asking for — for years, but needed someone with the logistical expertise to make it work.
Emma’s years of experience leading tours across France and Europe meant she brought connections and insider knowledge that money simply can’t buy. Paired with a few of my own tried-and-loved favorites from past visits, the itinerary really did feel like the best of both worlds — and I’d like to think we made a pretty great team!
A Week of Style & Discovery — Highlights
We saw and did SO much in that week, and the days just flew by. I’ll share more snippets in the coming weeks, but here are a few of the highlights.
Fashion History & Exhibitions
During an informative personal tour at the Palais Galliera, we learned about the silhouettes and techniques of 18th Century fashion, and how this period continues to inspire modern fashion. The pieces on display were amazing examples of artisanship, skill, and labor, which was a recurring theme throughout the week.
And the following day, we marveled at the breathtaking Christian Dior creations at Galerie Dior. It was a truly memorable experience we couldn’t stop talking about.
After that, lunch at elegant Ladurée seemed especially apropos!
👉 We have another tour planned for September! Click HERE for more information and to reserve your spot!
Legacy French Brands and Modern Artisans
It was such fun to discover these uniquely French creators and brands!
Petitjean Paris Scarves
At Petitjean Paris, founder Léa Petitjean explained the inspirations behind her lovely original scarf designs, and gave us a lesson in Parisian scarf tying.
These silk scarves are so beautiful, and we did not leave empty-handed!
Laulhère Berets
At “Living Heritage” beret maker Laulhère, we learned about the history of the company, and the felting process used to create these beautiful berets and caps. Of course, we had to try them on!
Lancaster
We enjoyed a private shopping party at Lancaster, a brand known for its functional, quality leather bags with modern design.
Everyone was impressed with these bags, and the very reasonable prices!
Heading to Paris? Here’s what Parisians are wearing this spring.
Vintage Shopping at the Marché des Puces
Another high point was a personal tour of the famous Saint Ouen flea market.
Our tour guide, Rebecca (@textile_tours_of_Paris) steered us to her favorite vendors where we found some fabulous vintage pieces…
The Saint Ouen market can be overwhelming, so having a knowledgable guide made it so much more fun and manageable.
Fragrance Workshop at Molinard
And at the legacy créateur parfumeur Molinard, we learned how to blend our own unique fragrance (and mixed up a bottle to take home).
We also had plenty of opportunities to explore and shop on our own…
ICYMI: My Favorite (Affordable) Shops in Paris
An Evening at the Moulin Rouge
Of all the times I’ve been to Paris, I’d never been to the Moulin Rouge, and I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical. But it was really fun and some of the acrobatic acts had my jaw on the floor! Walking into the theater felt a bit like going back in time to the Belle Époque.
And for a visual “nightcap,” Emma shared her favorite spot for Eiffel Tower viewing.
👉 Don’t miss the fun…there are still a few spaces left for our September Paris Fashion Tour! Get details & reserve your spot HERE.
The Photo Shoot
Emma had arranged for photo shoot with professional photographer Krystal Kenney (@missparisphoto). She took both individual and group photos in a variety of iconic Paris locations, and the photos were stunning!
The Friends We Made Along the Way
But truly, the absolute high point of the tour was getting to know these amazing women — what a privilege to have shared this time with them! Something tells me we all came away as friends, and will stay in touch, and perhaps even travel together again.
If this sounds like your kind of Paris tour, we have another one planned for September! It’s a beautiful time to visit Paris — mild weather and fewer crowds. We’ve put together what I think will be another fabulous itinerary, and there are still a few spaces available. Bring a friend and receive a discount with code BRINGAFRIEND. Don’t wait — reserve your space today! And I hope to see you in September — in Paris!
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Hi Susan—Looks like you ladies had a great time.
Do you have any additional information about the Lancaster handbags? Is the leather stiff, etc.? I couldn’t find where to convert to U.S. dollars, so wasn’t sure if we can purchase if we live in the U. S.
It looks like they may have some handbags with silver hardware which is great for us winters. I’m 5’ and find it difficult to find medium size handbags. Too large of a bag seems overwhelming, yet I need to fit the essentials.
Hi Rose, I found most of the Lancaster bags I looked at to be on the more structured side. The leather isn’t stiff, but isn’t slouchy either (though I suspect it will soften up a little with wear).
It looks like so much fun! And indeed, that photographer took some pretty awesome shots. So nice as a memory.
Greetje
Although I won’t be joining you in September, I’m so happy to read about your wonderful exploits and get a visual on the fun and bonding that happened. Glad it was such a success!
What a great group- looks like lots of fun!
Oh what fun. It looks just delightful. Obviously we all need to start wearing scarves!! Great idea having a professional photographer.
Congratulations on living your dreams Susan! Do you sometimes have to pinch yourself?
Best wishes, Julie xx
Thanks Julie, and yes, absolutely!
Thank you for sharing those photos. It looks as if you had a fantastic time and deservedly so. After a pretty tough time in the last couple of years, it is wonderful to see you looking happy and enjoying your favourite city with a group of like minded women. I was in Paris late August last year and it rained every day for five days. Hope the weather is better for you
I love reading all about your tour and seeing the photos. What an amazing adventure!!!