Le Bon Marche
Style: Luxury
Store Vibe: Upscale
Brands: Balenciaga, Balmain, Bottega Veneta, Celine, Dior, Dolce & Gabanna, Fendi, Ganni, Gucci, IRO, Isabel Marant, Loewe, Louis Vuitton, Max Mara, Paco Rabanne, Staud, Ulla Johnson, Valentino, Versace
Returns: Inquire in store.
Picture this: you’re walking down a Parisian street in your oversized black blazer when you spot a sign that’s the same shade of red as your lipstick. What does the sign say? Le Bon Marche.
Le Bon Marche is the world’s first department store, opening its doors in 1852 to the French bourgeoisie. Over time, however, the store became a home for everyone — with products ranging from Balenciaga boots to bed frames and prices that could break the bank or simply lighten your wallet.
But your time spent at Le Bon Marche is more than just shopping; it’s an experience only comparable to roaming the actual streets of Paris. The store, with its glass ceiling and reflective escalators, is spacious and speaks the language of luxury. As if that weren’t enough, the halls are covered in famous art, and there is a cute corner for pastries and coffee — making the whole experience feel more like an exhibit. Today, the racks of Le Bon Marche carry the famed handbags of Louis Vuitton, the stilettos of Jimmy Choo, and the work of emerging brands such as Nanushka.
For the person who loves all things designer, Le Bon Marche is custom made for you. We’re not saying you NEED a Max Mara cashmere coat, but what’s the harm in trying it on?
While a trip to the department store may hurt your wallet (aside from the $1,000 ticket to France), we believe that the experience will turn you into an authentic Parisian in no time.
Photos courtesy of Le Bon Marche.