Tag Archives: Retail

All STOCKED up!

I’ve worked in the “World of Retail” for most of my career- starting in my teens, working on the floor of Ann Taylor outlet and moving up the chain for many years, to becoming Director of Marketing and Business Development for one of the most profitable shopping centers in the United States.  So, I’ve seen it all for decades…and understand costs, value and the like, for domestic and global brands alike.  Therefore, I KNOW how to shop…and since I do it so frequently, it’s imperative I know how to score a good deal.  Especially now, as I’m living in Paris for a few months and need to maximize my Dollar…or Euro, as it were.

When I arrived in Paris during the summer months, many of the retailers were closing out their summer collection and there were deals to be found.  However, I knew there were even better finds to be had, pending I did my research.  I quickly learned about Stock stores, which are what we call Outlets in the States.  Outlet stores, which offer highly discounted items from previous seasons and/or remaining items from collections, are a great way to get your hands on some of your favorite brands, at a fraction of the price.

Besides, we’re not talking about your average brand outlets, we’re talking Sandro, Maje and Zadig & Voltaire!  Phenomenal brands….and hey, I AM IN PARIS!  Zadig & Voltaire & Sandro are located in the Marais.  Luckily, I just so happen to live down the street from the Maje stock stores.  So, now when it comes to the weekend and I NEED something to wear, I just pop down to this fabulous boutique for a gorgeous, and might I add, less expensive attire for the evening!

I am thrilled to have these incredible boutiques so easily within my grasp and even more happy to find spectacular bargains, as well.  After all, these brands are more expensive in the US, so to get a markdown on these highly stylish and ever fabulous clothes-I am one happy girl.  And also need to share this shopping tip- that while in Paris, do as the locals do….and shop STOCK.

Anyone needing a “little something” from Paris, just let me know, as I’d be honored to “be on the job”  in seeking out fantastic finds, while living in the Fashion Capital of the world!  As a matter of fact, I’m headed over to have a visit with Zadig & Voltaire and Sandro today in the picturesque arrondissement of Le Marais.

Side Note for your STOCK Shopping excursion:  While in the Marais, be sure to grab a falafel- known to be some of the best in the city!  Who knew that Falafel & Fashion go so well together, hand in hand?  Bon Appetite & Bonne Chance with the bargains, mes Amies.

 

La Rive Gauche et Le Bon Marche, S’il vous plait!

I’ve always heard about life on la Rive Gauche…and I am thankful now to be living it, myself.   As I now reside, just a mere two blocks away from the spectacular and historic, Le Bon Marche, which is simply divine and dangerous all at the same time!  As this grand magasin, has been open and offering incredible wears since 1852 and now in 2015, it’s my turn to experience the luxury and beauty that is offered here.

From it’s stunning collections,  unique art installments and historic look-and-feel that has been carefully crafted and maintained, this place is truly divine.

The architecture inside is impeccable and yet still offers clean lines that make it feel quite open and easy to navigate within.  The center escalators frame the interior space and offer a pristine and lovely focal point, as you find your way strolling through some of the best fashion and global brands alike.

Now, onto the shoe department!  (As if this goes without saying!?)  It is almost as if these delicately gorgeous shoes are on display within a dome shaped, bird cage.  Absolutely stunning and makes me want to sit on my pirch all day, trying on each and every pair!  Tweet, tweet.

Lastly, and certainly worth the mention, is their upcoming Brooklyn Rive Gauche animation and inspiration, featured throughout the shopping experience.  You can find “Made in Brooklyn” items by various artists and designers, starting September 3rd-officially.  Luckily, on my walk about this morning, I caught a glimpse at what’s in store.  Though it’s not just in the themes, or items sold within that are note-worthy, it’s an entire experience!   From the moment you enter, you will notice the BROOKLYN inspiration throughout.  Colorful lounge chairs set up in a museum-like black room, featuring gigantic LED screens, showing visually pleasing images and videos of Brooklyn, as part of this exhibit are not to be missed!  Especially for me, being an east coaster by birth, nothing is more exciting than to see your original favorite city being featured, in your new favorite city, of Pareeee!  Through this installation and thematic inspiration, they have truly done a spectacular job creating an experience for their shoppers.

As they say…Art is Fashion.  And as far as I’m concerned, Le Bon Marche epitomizes these two cultural essentials- bringing together the best of both.  So with much appreciation and adoration, this little Rive Gauche Dweller says:  Merci Beaucoup!!!!!

Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.  -Coco Chanel