If you’re heading to Paris for fashion week (or just heading there for a few days respite) then why not follow in the footsteps of the city’s chicest inhabitants by hitting up some of Paris’s most coveted hotspots.
Paris is quite literally the fashion capital of the world – so even if you’re not there for fashion week, you’ll be guaranteed to spot everyone from Demna Gvasalia to Bella Hadid cosied up on the terrace at Costes with a hot chocolate.
Where to stay
Le Ritz
The newly renovated legendary hotel hasn’t lost its character. When opened by César Ritz in 1898, it was the first hotel in Paris to have lifts, electricity and private bathrooms, making it the absolute go-to for the travellers in need of top-notch luxury. Today, little has changed- its faithful clients came back after four years of deep renovation, ecstatic to find this cosy and “oh-so-Paris” safe haven on Place Vendôme.
You’ll like it if: you want to follow the footsteps of Coco Chanel, and Ernst Hemingway.
We love: the Ritz Health Club. Perfect for relaxation, great for networking.
Le Bristol
This Palace earned its name after the 4th Earl of Bristol, a man known for his high standards and his discretion. Its proximity to the Faubourg Saint Honoré luxurious shops made it the official headquarter for celebrities and fashion photographers.
You will like it if: you want to take a tea time break from the Paris hustle and bustle and play with the official mascots Fa-Raon and Kléopatre the resident cats.
We love: the newly renovated three star Michelin hotel restaurant Epicure by chef Eric Fréchont.
Hotel Amour
Opened in 2007 by graffiti artist-cum-hotelier Andre Saraiva and Thierry Costes (from Costes hotels and restaurants) Hotel Amour is synonymous with cool. This boutique hotel has 20 rooms; some of them designed by the most sought after creatives in the art and fashion industries namely Sophie Calle, Terry Richardson, Marc Newson, and Alexandre de Betak. The downstairs restaurant is still a Paris hotspot with its brown leather benches and private garden.
You’ll like it if: you are a young creative looking to mingle.
We love: scheduling meetings there and the yummy brunches.
Where to eat
Ferdi
Whether you are in London or in Paris, you literally have to get a burger at Ferdi. Known for its delicious on-the-go food, Ferdi has great service and is perfectly located in the 1er arrondissement. However it is very small so be sure to book a table in advance.
You will like it if: you love good food and rubbing shoulders with the fashion industry’s who’s who.
We love: the super welcoming staff.
Vivant
Vivant is a casual bar in the most happening neighbourhood of Paris, the 10ème arrondissement. The bar has an open kitchen so you can watch super chef Pierre Touitou cook which is absolutely fantastic.
You will like it if: you like chic yet unpretentious fine dining.
We love: the trendy crowd mixed with regulars of the restaurant.
La Belle Époque
La Belle Époque is a lovely brasserie in the heart of Paris. Mirrored walls and high ceilings are the backdrop to some fashion week’s most memorable moments.
You will like it if: you are looking to start your night with a great dish before heading to a party.
We love: the large choice of French food on the menu.
Where to hangout
Café de Flore
What is a Parisian gateway without a pit stop at Café de Flore? The historical café is probably the most classically Parisian-chic place to get a coffee.
You will like it if: you are tired from your Sunday walk and need to get warm on the terrace
We love: that you can start random conversations with locals who live in the neighbourhood, especially seniors. They are lovely
Hotel Costes
Who doesn’t know and love the famous Costes terrace – with its mellow music, and signature fig scent? Hotel Costes is a temple and universe of ‘velvety’ chic – a place where celebs and the fashion crowd meet.
You’ll love it if: you want a quick lunch meeting in central Paris.
We love: the rose flower shop on the ground floor.
Where to shop
Ex-Nihilo Paris
Ever dreamed of having your own tailor-made scent? Parisian brand Ex-Nihilo offers customizable perfumes at their Saint Honoré flagship store. Launched in 2016 by three partners the brand focuses on unique scents inspired by Paris.
You’ll love it if: you don’t like smelling like everyone else.
We love: the ready-made perfumes, especially Sublime Essence Oud.
Didier Ludot
Paris is filled with vintage luxury shops, but Didier Ludot is probably the most famous one. Collectors know to go to Ludot (as it’s affectionately known) to find the rarest Couture pieces available on the market.
You’ll like it if: you are a collector and not afraid to spend on a piece of fashion history.
We love: starring at haute couture pieces from the 50s.
Azzedine Alaia
Discretely hidden in Le Marais, the flagship Azzedine Alaia store with its attached art gallery became one of the most iconic fashion landmarks of the century. Nothing extravagant, only timeless, elegant pieces with only the best materials.
You’ll like it if: you like looking sharp and sexy.
We love: to commemorate this fashion genius as much as we can. Start collecting the last seasons designed by him.
