A Chic Shopping Fave: Musee des Fetes Forains

If you have kids or you like off-the-beaten-path cultural experiences, this is the place for you. Stepping into the Musee des Fetes Forains makes you feel like you are in another world, another land, another era-- there is really nothing like it.  A vast collection of carnival rides and memorabilia that lives in the former wine storage warehouses in Bercy [Eastern Paris], the collection/ space is usually only open for private parties and special affairs.  I have been on several occasions and have been swept up by the magique of the place each and every time.   The museum will be open for 10 days at the end of the year [December 26th to January 4th], so if you are in Paris at the time, put it on your must-do list!

Chic Charms at Colette

Who doesn't love getting a little bling for Noel?  This stunning charm bracelet boasts the name of one of Paris' most famous rues- Rue St Honore.  By Aussie designers Dallas and Carlos, this chic & chunky bracelet will sure to be a hit.  Available at Colette, on rue St Honore, bien sur.

A French twist on the boxer

We've been watching this quirky French brand take off for some time now....and I thought now was a great time to introduce Le Slip Francais.  "Slip" is French for boxer and these cheeky numbers are Made in France, with the French flag colors front and center.   A fun gift for the homme who has everything, n'est-ce pas?  The brand also offers boy shorts for girls, alongside a few accessories [espadrilles!] Now available at their first boutique in the Marais.

Le Slip Francais, 137 Vieille du Temple, 3rd

Christmas Markets in Paris

Will you be in Paris this Christmas?  Be sure to check out the Grands Magasins [Galeries Lafayette, Printemps- both pictured above] for their exquisite store windows.  What else is on?  Check out this great list of the Marches de Noel [Christmas Markets].  Joyeux Noel!

It's on tonight!! Chic Shopping Paris founder on HGTV

I'm terrified and curious to watch myself and my family at the same time...tune in to House Hunters International TONIGHT to see Rebecca and family!  HGTV program description here!

Introducing Chic Shopping London!

We are elated to announce the opening of Chic Shopping London!  You've shopped with us in Paris, now visit shop with us across the pond to take home a bit of London in your bag.  We are starting with three tours to help you find the off-the-beaten path London- away from Harrod's and the high streets, we'll help you discover the best London has to offer.

New Tour: Bobo Bastille Tour

The Bobo Bastille Tour explores the true Parisian’s Paris in the less-touristy eastern part of the city. This historic furniture-making quarter has been taken over by hipsters of all types in the past decade or so, and the ateliers have now been turned into showrooms and boutiques.  Explore the charming shops in an authentic French neighborhood, from made-in-France shoes and bags to locally made jewelry, funky clothing and some great kids’ stuff. We’ll show you our favorite haunts, and point out some great restaurants and wine bars for you to explore after your tour.  Contact us to book your tour.

New Tour: Trendy Tenth Tour

The Trendy 10th Tour takes place in the trendy and cool 10th arrondissement of Paris, in the tree-lined area around the Canal Saint-Martin. Filled with shabby-chic bars and funky shops, this area of Paris is on the rise—far away from the touristy, high-rent quartiers of Paris. We’ll take you to one of the best bakeries in Paris, a sleek concept store with European treasures, along with a bit of vintage and some locally made bijoux. And if you want to have a pique-nique along the picturesque canal, we’ll even tell you how to get pizza delivered to a park bench.  Contact us for more info or to book your tour!

New Tour: Paris Out of Bounds

Just in time for your holiday shopping, Chic Shopping Paris offers up three great new tours!  We'll be rolling them out, one after another this week.  Check the blog and Facebook page for details!

The Paris Out of Bounds Tour is designed to introduce you to the charming boutiques that are within view of the spectacular castle where Louis XIV was born, in the village of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, just outside Paris. You’ll find top French brands, one-of-a-kind shops, used treasures (depot-ventes), antiques (brocantes), and a vibrant open market (note: market is only on Tuesdays and Fridays). Strolling through the chateau’s forest while taking in the Paris skyline is optional. Experiencing this city’s charm is like taking a vacation within a vacation!   Contact us for more details.  

Paris Peepers

Over the years, we've had clients looking for that certain je ne sais quoi with regards to....glasses!  After all, they are one of the accessories you might find yourself wearing daily.  
We've listed several of our faves, all Made in France!   

Our very own guide Wendy just picked up these great sunglass readers by See Concept at Colette.

French brand Lafont has been making glasses forever...and I'm a bit partial, as we are family friends.   Lafont offers a huge range, from modern and funky to the re-editions [shown here] of some of their classic styles.

Last but not least are the creme de la creme of glasses, the made to measure versions from Maison Bonnet.  Find exactly the right pair for your face, and be assured that no one else will have the same.

Picasso Museum to Reopen this Fall

Closed since 2009 for renovations, the Musee Picasso is finally set to open its doors again on October 23, 2014.   Set in the heart of the Marais neighborhood, this is a great museum to check off after you have done all the "big ones" [Louvre, Grand Palais, etc] on your list.  The museum is home to over 5,000 of Picasso's works, donated by his family after his death in 1973.

An American in Paris

I'd imagine that most visitors to Paris shy away from going to the theater, other than to go to the ballet or opera.  But here is your chance to see an amazing production, in English!  An American in Paris [so apropos, non?]  will be on at the Chatelet Theater from November 22 to January 4th.  Book early to make sure you get a seat!

Chic Shopping Paris Limited Edition Fall Tour- September 26- October 5th Only!

Attention Antiques Lovers:  Chic Shopping Paris is offering a limited-edition tour of the charming Chatou flea market and ham fair.  Join us for a half day tour of this treasure trove of French antiques. Looking for furniture or artwork?  Or "smalls" such as doll clothes, buttons, toys, clothes, dishes, etc?  This is the place.  Set on the charming Ile de Chatou in the Seine, outside of Paris, many famous Impressionsts once painted here.  Enjoy a day outside of the city at this quaint market.  Contact us for availability between September 26th and October 5th, 2014.   

Street of Dreams

Chic Shopping guide Wendy spotted this cute leather pochette [and yellow purse!] out and about on a recent tour.  We are all suckers for cute items with Frenchie writing, and I love that this looks like a Parisian street sign.  Check it out at Kesslord [French brand with a very un-French name!] on rue de Sevigne.

French Summer Style

You can't beat a fresh cabas [tote bag] and some new espadrilles for

some instant French style.  Chic Shopping Paris faves below....

Mellow Yellow, 99 euros

Nina des Criquets, 117 euros

Monoprix, 39.90 euros

Zara, gold espadrilles, $69

Les Toiles de Soleil, $58

Asos, $89.55

French for the tips of your toes

Chic Shopping guide Wendy spotted these adorable French quote slippers at Fragonard on a recent shopping tour.  What a great souvenir, n'est-ce pas?   The top pair says "Yes, No," bottom pair says "And why?  Because." Available at Fragonard.

Learning Les Arts de la Table

If you've ever had the chance to have a drink or stay the night at the Four Seasons George V in Paris, you have witnessed the spectacular blooms of Jeff Leatham.  American floral designer to the stars, Leatham uses over 12,000 blooms in amazing floral decorations all over the hotel.  And now you can learn from the master in a two hour course.  The catch?
The course is only open to clients of the hotel or of Le Cinq restaurant.

And if you are interested in setting a beautiful table a la francaise, you can sign up for a class in a Paris atelier to learn from the duo that creates special events all over Paris.
JFC Style Hertiage Designers, 1 rue Portefoin, 3rd

La Chambre aux Confitures

Nothing beats an amazing jam with butter on a fresh baguette.....it is also a great gift to take home to those who didn't get to come to Paris!  La Chambre aux Confitures has something for every taste- rasberry & violet, banana & chocolate, salted caramel, and jams to match up with foie gras or cheese.  A lovely selection products, made with quality as the gourmet products of long ago.

La Chambre aux Confitures
9 rue des Martyrs, 9th

Dessance: A new Dessert Bar in the Marais

A new dessert bar has popped up in the Marais.  Dessance is the name, a mix of the words dessert and naissance [birth], and the pastry chefs behind this cafe invite you to try their "innovative, light & addictive" new pastry creations.  Modeled after a proper restaurant, you are invited to try a tasting menu of sweets, with matching wines or champagne.

Dessance
74 rue des Archives, 3rd

Imaginative Eats in the Marais

If you haven't been to the upper Marais for a meal, it might be time.  Interesting new restaurants are popping up overnight in the area.  Le Mary Celeste, above, is named after a 19th century ghost ship, and serves up rare oysters and small plates that change daily.  Recently opened by the team that owns Candeleria, seafood lovers can't go wrong.

Table Ronde is designed as a place for exchanging ideas about gastronomy.  Each month, 18 diners are invited to take part in unique meals prepared by 4 or 5 guest chefs.  Check the schedule and sign up online to try your hand at a getting a coveted spot at the table.

Le Mary Celeste
1 rue des Commines, 3rd

www.lemaryceleste.com

Table Ronde
58 rue de Saintonge, 3rd

www.tableronde.com