Take a Tour of Paris’s Best Boutiques with Yeojin Bae

Paris has been a constant source of inspiration behind Australian designer Yeojin Bae’s collections – she’s been visiting the city every year for the past two decades. The Parisian influence shows in the feminine silhouettes, sleek tailoring and hint of sex appeal that have made Bae’s eponymous label an A-list favourite for more than 10 years. She takes us on a tour of her favourite Paris shopping hotspots. 

Best for a designer splurge

“Le Bon Marché is my favourite department store in Paris. It’s smaller in scale than most large department stores and it’s filled with an excellent selection of global designer labels such as Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton and local favourites such as Céline, Isabel Marant and APC. A visit to the upmarket Le Bon Marché food hall La Grande Epicerie de Paris is a must while you’re there.”
24 rue de Sévres, 75007

Best for jewellery

“I’m a minimalist when it comes to jewellery and I like the hip simplicity of Medecine Douce. The boutique and workshop are in the one space and I love the delicate gold jewellery they produce.”
10 rue de Marseille, 75010

Best for beauty

“Venture into any French pharmacy to pick up the best of local brands. Some of my favourite beauty picks include Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse, a natural botanical oil you can apply to your entire face, body and hair; and Embryolisse Lait Creme concentrate, which is a super-hydrating moisturiser.”

Best for vintage

“The flea markets in Paris are excellent, but if you only have limited time and you’re hoping to take home a great piece, I would head to Thanx God I’m a V.I.P. There’s a great selection of cool French brands such as YSL, Chloé and Lanvin. I once purchased an all-cream vintage Burberry trench coat there, which has became a staple.”
12 rue de Lancry, 75010

Best for shoes

“There are many beautifully curated high-end shoe stores in Paris but I love an effortless flat shoe that you can wear day in and day out. Bobbies feels very French, re-interpreting classics such as moccasins, ballerina flats and sandals in a huge array of colours. They do offer high heels in the Marais store, too.”
1 rue des Blanc Manteaux, 75004

Best for accessories

“Les 3 Marches de Catherine B is my go-to for accessories. The original store, established more than 20 years ago in an historical building near the Luxembourg Gardens, houses a luxurious collection of vintage Chanel and Hermès bags, including the iconic Birkin and Kelly designs. It’s best to email the store and make an appointment ahead of your visit so you don’t miss out.”
1 rue Guisarde, 75006

Best for homewares

“Jamini is a lifestyle and accessories brand that marries artisanal Indian craftsmanship with Parisian chic. There are two stores in Paris and their traditional textiles and block-printing are what I find really beautiful – I recommend the range of cushions and throws.”
10 rue du Château d'Eau, 75010
10 rue Notre Dame de Lorette, 75009

Best for a souvenir

“Head to Merci in the Marais – an eclectic bohemian store that sells a mixture of art, books, homewares and fashion and donates a portion of the profits to charity. In the store, there is a fantastic kitsch selection of French-themed souvenirs such as plates and stationery.”
11 Boulevard Beaumarchais, 75003

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