Why La Frange à l’envers Is The Coolest Second-Hand Store In Paris

La Frange à l’envers is essential for second-hand shoppers that adore creating chic outfits with Parisian brands at a discounted rate.

Upon entering La Frange à l’envers, a colorful collage adorned with polaroids, magazine cutouts, and important dates fills the wall. Photographs depict the journey taken by founders, Coralie and Anne-Sophie Filippi, as they launched their business from the ground up. It all started by selling pre-owned clothing online, using a makeshift photography set inside their studio apartment. Today, their store on the ultra-hip Rue Saint-Maur is the largest second-hand consignment store in Paris.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jetset Times (@jetsettimes)

Next door to Le Marais – a signature shopping district – this shopping destination is nestled between charming cobblestone streets in the 11th arrondissement. The rustic brick walls and fairy lights dangling above dressing rooms create a warm, inviting space for thrift lovers to try on any cool outfit. Complete your look with stylish sunglasses showcased on holographic shelves.

Established 10 years ago, La Frange à l’envers proudly encourages responsible consumption while all unsold pieces are donated to partner associations. Every rack offers fan-favorite brands, including Sezane, Sœur, Maje, Sandro, Isabel Marant, Chanel, Dior, Jacquemus and many more. In a recent interview, Communications Manager Charlyne Plantard illustrates the evolution behind La Frange à l’envers.

What is the concept behind La Frange à l’envers?

CP: Sisters Anne-Sophie and Coralie make the perfect duo. Anne-Sophie, with a background in advertising, leads the project’s entrepreneurial side, while Coralie is passionate about fashion. Over time, her knack for discovering good deals inspired her sister as they joined forces to design an animated, inclusive boutique.

Currently, over 1,000 items are displayed. The original concept was a hassle-free shop where shoppers can donate unwanted garments while the store handles everything else. It all started in the sisters’ studio apartment, items were photographed on a mattress for online promotion before they decided to open a physical location to foster customer relationships. They started with pop-ups then upgraded to a cozy boutique space. In 2020, the brand moved to its current location and is now the biggest second-hand consignment store in Paris.

What makes La Frange à l’envers different from other second-hand stores?

CP: We only feature new collections, which means each piece is no more than three years old. Chances are, if you liked an item from a recent runway show, it will likely be showcased here within several months. Our strength is carrying high-quality, modern yet timeless apparel. We have a team of fashion experts who can name, categorize, and price outfits with one look. For example, our team was trying to price a Japanese dress when finally, an expert decided on €300 since it was once worn by Gigi Hadid. It sold within 24 hours.

What kind of experience do you wish to deliver to customers?

CP: We strive to deliver a premium shopping experience, so every rack is sorted by size, color, and gender; while ensuring each display is eye-catching. Once customers enter, we want them to know they’re guaranteed to find great pieces. Considering there’s no online shop, our client satisfaction is very important to us, as is returning to the essentials of commerce by showing kindness and empathy.

How do the founders celebrate female empowerment behind La Frange à l’envers?

CP: The whole team is really close with them. They’re the kind of people who will comfort you after a breakup or dance to celebrate and have contagiously good energy, which can be felt every day. Even while juggling a lot of responsibilities, they continue to be great bosses. I actually have a special connection with Anne-Sophie because she taught me about entrepreneurship and all of the strings behind La Frange à l’envers. Something I haven’t seen many other places do is trust young women. I was a frequent shopper at first, before joining communications because she knew it was my forte, and it’s rare to see that in everyone.

What is the story behind the name of the shop?

CP: While brainstorming ideas for a name over dinner, the sisters recalled a childhood email address: Coralie@lafrangealenevers.com, which translates to upside-down bangs in English. But, it’s a classic French haircut, so it fits really well into Parisian style. We are also occasionally confused for a hairdresser.

Why do you think people should buy second-hand?

CP: Some people say fashion is superficial, but everyone gets dressed in the morning. And even if you say you don’t like it, you think about it. It is going to stay. We’re always going to get dressed, so we should do it well. By “well,” I mean, in a more responsible way. Fashion is one of the most polluting industries, if you know that, you can’t ignore it.

There’s obviously the ecological part, there’s also the styling part. When you go into a second-hand shop, you’ll find one piece or one item that you love. You go on the street, you’re the only one wearing that. I think when you buy second-hand, you’re more responsible and more stylish!

What are your best-sellers?

CP: We carry Parisian brands that customers specifically search for, including Sézane, Sandro, Isabel Marant, and Maje. Trendy outfits placed on display are typically gone within 20 minutes. Our best-sellers are printed apparel and bold accessories, although it varies each season. Dresses fly off shelves in summer and coats sell out during winter, but no matter when travelers visit, they’re guaranteed to find new additions to their wardrobe.