a citizen's guide to the best vintage shopping in Paris
vintage shopping in Paris: trés chic
If there’s one city that knows fashion, it’s Paris. Famous for its designer boutiques and grands magasins, the city’s secondhand scene is equally fashionable. Imagine strolling down winding streets filled with vintage shops, quaint dépôts-ventes where chic Parisians sell off their designer pieces, and flea markets packed with retro treasures from Y2K and beyond. Whether you're after a classic Chanel gem, a 70s smoking jacket, or pre-loved Sandro, Paris’s vintage scene offers it all. Every corner of the city whispers stylish history, making your shopping adventure a chic and timeless experience. So, get ready to dive into the best vintage shops in Paris.
where to shop in Paris
Tired of trends that come and go faster than you can blink? Revamp your wardrobe with timeless vintage pieces that have truly stood the test of time. Skip the cookie-cutter big chain stores and dive into Paris’s vintage scene to find unique gems with a story behind them. Whether it’s a classic jacket or a retro accessory, each item adds character and style without being stuck in the fast-fashion loop.
Picture this: you begin your Parisian adventure at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, the world’s largest antique market. It’s seven miles of endless treasures, where each turn offers a unique find. Feeling overwhelmed with all the chocies? Mei Mei Vintage is the perfect starting point with its handpicked gems. Next, wander through the vibrant streets of the Marais and the 10th arrondissement, home to stylish vintage boutiques and chic consignment shops. Finally, for a touch of luxury, make your way to the Palais-Royal boutiques. Once your bags are full, unwind with a glass of wine at one of Paris's trendy cafés, feeling like a true local.
chic vintage boutiques in Paris
If you're after a curated vintage shopping experience in Paris, these boutiques are a must:
Didier Ludot: Step into a fashion museum under the arcades of Palais Royal. this boutique offers rare haute couture treasures from fashion's golden age, perfect for those who love French fashion history.
Palettist Vintage: Explore a curated selection of bold selection of '70s to 2000s fashion, featuring both statement pieces and timeless classics, offering both bold statement pieces and classic wardrobe staples.
Palace Callas: A go-to for high-end vintage from the '90s and early 2000s, with chic designer finds. This boutique features bith designer garments and modern on-trend pieces.
Rose Market: Browse through carefully selected pre-loved pieces from the '70s and '90s, including designer labels and vintage gems.
Thanx God I'm a VIP: Run by Parisian party girl Sylvie Chateigner since 2011, this boutique has been the go-to spot for second-hand couture. Methodically organised by colour, it’s a blend of fashion eras just waiting for you to pick your favorite pieces from Alaïa, Chanel, and Hermès.
top vintage markets in Paris
Ready to dig for treasures? Paris’s vintage markets are the place to be. Packed with hidden gems and timeless finds, you never know what unique pieces you’ll stumble upon.
Saint-Ouen Flea Market: Explore one of the largest flea markets in Paris, offering a plethora of antique jewelry, vintage clothing, and unique finds. Bargain to your heart's content and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market.
Porte de Vanves Flea Market: Delve into a genuine street market with a quaint atmosphere and a diverse array of vintage treasures. From everyday objects to curiosities, this charming market is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Montreuil Flea Market: Unearth hidden gems and oddities at one of the oldest flea markets in Paris. Browse through mechanical spare parts, antique glassware, and vintage clothing, and embrace the thrill of the hunt.
Dauphine Market: Immerse yourself in a vast covered market offering everything under the sun. From jewelry and furniture to classic and contemporary art, this market is a haven for vintage enthusiasts seeking unique finds.
Paris Riverside Booksellers: Fashion isn’t the only treasure to hunt in Paris! Along the banks of the Seine, over 225 booksellers line the iconic riverside, offering an array of vintage books, prints, and quirky finds. Perfect for fashionistas who appreciate a bit of literary flair alongside their wardrobe hunts.
where to stay in Paris
After a thrilling day of treasure hunting in Paris's vintage havens, why not treat yourself to a night at citizenM hotels? Right in the heart of the action, citizenM offers a chic and cosy haven for tired shoppers. With their funky decor and ultra-comfy beds, citizenM hotels are a stylish oasis in the city. So, after bagging your vintage finds, head back to citizenM, where you can kick off your shoes, flop onto the bed, and relive your day of vintage adventures in true Parisian style.