Emily in Paris: The Best of Paris Vintage
Emily Hanna
Moving to one of the Big Four fashion capitals of the world, I had high hopes for second hand shopping in Paris, and I have not been disappointed. Breaking my bank account in the name of research (you’re welcome), I have now compiled a list of what I consider to be ‘The Best of Paris Vintage.’
1. Rue de Turbigo
This road is perfect to wander in and out of different vintage stores. These shops are within a wide budget ranging from high street to luxury brands meaning you can find amazing and unique pieces at reasonable prices. Along this road I purchased a genuine leather jacket which cost me €30 and I am utterly obsessed with it.
2. Clignancourt Flea Market
Any flea market is an absolute must visit if you’re in Paris, my personal favourite has been the Clignancourt Flea Market. With two floors of antiques, vinyls, jewellery and clothes you will be sure to find something you love. Some of the stalls sell fur coats, Chanel ballet flats and Hermes bags, others have the most amazing furniture I've ever seen- when I grow up and get an apartment, I will be furnishing it solely from here. There are also a few independent artists and a street food vendor with burgers and croque monsieurs if you get hungry.
Outside the flea market there are even more stalls of handmade or vintage jewellery. Some stalls sell flawed items- vintage watches with no batteries or necklaces with a broken clasp- so they're often cheaper, if you’re the type to D.I.Y definitely pay them a visit.
3. Episode
Episode is a huge vintage shop with everything you can imagine. The prices are reasonable, with sweatshirts at about €20. Episode is a treasure chest of vintage streetwear and hidden gems like 70’s style denim jumpsuits, tons of reworked Burberry, and designer accessories.
4. Kiliwatch
Kiliwatch is on the pricier end of vintage shopping but specialises in unique pieces from amazing brands. If you’re in the market for cowboy boots this is definitely not one to miss.
5. Thanx God I’m a V.I.P
Another expensive option, Thanx God I’m a V.I.P is a luxury second hand store. Selling only designer brands and many one-of-a-kind items, it’s one to visit. They have a website you can check out too. I’d say this one is more to visit for the experience unless you’re travelling with an unlimited budget, but nevertheless worth a visit.
6. Friperies
‘Friperies’ are similar to second hand shops rather than vintage shops. Most have piles and piles of clothes and shoes to rifle through, where you can quickly come across some unreal finds. Friperie le Kremlin Bictere which is the closest to me also sells True religion, Diesel and Levi’s jeans. I didn’t expect much the first day I visited, however there were Burberry, Versace and Armani heels, YSL scarves. Clearly, I’m easily impressed by anything with a brand, however for finding anything second hand at the best price, head to your nearest Friperie.
Having now received my Erasmus grant, it's pretty clear where it's being spent. If you’re taking a trip to Paris anytime soon, leave some space in your bag and plan a trip to any of these places - I can guarantee you will find something absolutely fabulous. I would also advise you to shop around, there are so many options on offer, so take your time before making a purchase.
À bientôt
Emily
Emily Hanna is a third year English Literature student and both a Culture Deputy Editor and Health and Lifestyle Columnist for The Scoop