PARIS — FASHION WEEK: SEPT 24–Oct 2
It’s impossible to go to Paris and not fall in love whether with a person, a pair of Chanel pumps, or the city itself.
Even on your first visit, everything seems familiar somehow – the landmarks are, after all, some of the most recognisable in the world – the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc De Triomphe. And unlike many popular destinations, the tourist traps aren’t tacky. Just like everything in the French capital, they have an air of style that’s timeless.
FOR THE LADY
What to do… The area surrounding the Champs-Élysées is considered one of the most beautiful. It’s an ideal base for exploring the high-fashion hub of the city as well as the usual tourist haunts. This season’s most on-trend hangout is set to be Paris’ many opera houses. These grand buildings have a programme full of some of the world’s most famous operatic and ballet productions around. operadeparis.fr
Where to eat… La Table du Lancaster is a Michelin-starred, recently taken over by young hotshot chef Julien Rocheteau. Ideal for creative yet classic dining away from the tourist throngs. here
Where to stay… Combining traditional French antiques with modern textiles, Hotel Keppler (here) is one for the discerning traveller. With a central location and spacious rooms, you really can have your cake and eat it.
Quaint Parisian Street
FOR THE URBANITE
What to do… Explore the narrow streets of Le Quartier Latin. Visit the old bookshops and the baroque fountain of St Michel before calling in at one of the many jazz bars including Le Caveau de la Huchette.
Where to eat… Make time for a café crème and croissant outside a boulevard patisserie (wicker chair and round table essential) – alfresco dining at it’s Parisian finest.
Where to stay… Just a few blocks from the Jardin de Luxembourg is the wonderfully chic Hotel des Académies et des Arts (here). Paying homage to artists including Paul Gauguin (who actually lived on the very same street), this hotel is full of vibrant colour and upcoming art.
FOR THE TRENDSETTER
What to do… If you can’t catch a PFW show head to Galeries Lafayette on Fridays for a mini and free showcase. For unique finds whether fashion or homeware, stray off the beaten track to Marais.
Where to eat… As twilight approaches, Paris’ trendy restaurant scene wakes up. Rooftop bar and restaurant, Les Ombres, offers views that are as impressive as the haute cuisine. here
Where to stay… Christian Lacroix’s redesign for Hotel Le Bellechasse (here) doesn’t disappoint. Each room is a flamboyant work of art, which we think is worth the hefty price tag.
Hotel Le Bellechasse
Images: Getty, Hotel Le Bellechasse
