Shopping in Paris can be overwhelming to even the most veteran of fashionistas and style gurus.
With so many big names and untapped boutiques to choose from, it’s hard to find somewhere to start. Another alternative is to know what you want and figure out where to look for it. My must-have item was stationery – one item I can indulge in without feeling guilty. Every year, I splurge a bit extra on fun and colorful notebooks like those from Agatha Ruiz de la Prada’s line or even those from Mequelrius which have the smoothest pages. I like my paper sturdy and able to hold the inky pens that I get in a fun variety of colors.
SEE ALSO: SHOP: The Best Local Boutiques In Paris
If you didn’t already know, France is renowned for its artisanal offerings and specialty products. Paris is no exception to this rule, and the city boasts everything from high-quality paper goods boutiques (papeteries), to single-item stores that sell products such as: honey, jelly, candles, etc.
When I discovered a street full of papeteries, I almost died. It was heaven on a quaint Parisian street near the Seine – Rue du Pont-Louis Philippe to be exact. Located in the hip neighborhood (in the 4th arrondissement) known as Le Marais, this street features four papeteries with very diverse offerings (think journals, event invitations, wrapping paper, and your basic stationery), so everyone’s bound to find one that suits their taste!
1. Melodies graphiques
10 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, 75004 Paris, France (map)
Flickr / Cody & Maureen
2. Calligrane
6 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, 75004 Paris, France (map, website)
salonho.blogspot.com
3. Papier plus
9 rue du Pont Louis Philippe (map, website)
4. Les exprimeurs
4 rue du Pont Louis Philippe (map, website)
Les Exprimeurs was my personal favorite. It was less stuffy in size but more approachable in attitude. Their collection of products was not as original and sophisticated as others you may find, but it definitely exudes a more exciting and eclectic vibe. Not only did they have a fresh and youthful range of journals, stationery, and greeting cards, but they also carried fun souvenirs I bought for friends in the States.
If you end up on this small street, you may as well take advantage of all the fashion boutiques in the area and spend the afternoon shop ‘til you drop. (Click on map for details)
Written by Guadalupe Gonzalez.
