What are you doing this last Wednesday in June? Like the vast majority of French people, you'll probably be splashing out on some bargains that won't break the bank during the summer sales. And there's no better place to make the most of it than Paris, a great fashion destination, brimming with boutiques and great shopping opportunities around every corner … then, From Wednesday 26 June 2024, take advantage of four weeks of markdowns of up to 70% off! Don’t miss out on some of the best shopping spots in the city: the legendary department stores on Boulevard Haussmann, the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées, and the luxurious Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. For 'made in France' brands, head to the Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés or Abbesses districts. The sales are the ideal time to find good bargains, but there are some tricks you can use to avoid being disappointed. Follow our guide to the sales in Paris!
There’s no use in rushing in unprepared. It’s best to make a list at home before the sales, looking in your cupboards to see what you really need and to spot the clothes you never wore and things you never used from last year’s sales. In short, it’s a matter of not making the same mistakes twice! Take the opportunity to make a wish list and establish a budget.
A few days before the sales, or even better, the day before, check out your preferred shops and labels to see what catches your eye and try things on before the rush.
Can't find what you're looking for in-store? The Internet can be a great resource for finding something online.
You can also take the opportunity to check the shops’ opening times on the first day of the sales, as some - such as the big department stores - open earlier than usual.
Pay attention to what you wear. Comfortable shoes that are easy to take on and off, preferably flat, and a skirt rather than trousers for women; more practical for trying on an outfit without using the fitting rooms. This saves you having to wait in long queues. Don’t wrap up too warm, as the sales rush makes temperatures rise quickly. Shopaholics might also want to take out cash to make sure they stick to their budget, just in case …
It’s a well-known fact that the sales attract huge crowds. Though it’s inevitable, you can still opt for certain times when there will be less people in the shops: during the week rather than at the weekend and in the morning rather than the afternoon or early evening. Also remember that the best deals are found at the start of the sales when there is more choice and at the end when the prices are lowest!
Start the day shopping in designer boutiques where sales items are rare. Avoid the new collection, which will normally be on separate racks. The only way to avoid temptation is to stick to the sale section. And before buying completely on-trend clothes or accessories, bear in mind that trends move on quickly. Will purple, this winter's top colour, still be in vogue next autumn? If in doubt, stick to basics or wait until at least the second markdown to buy 2024’s ‘it’ items. And don’t forget, quality is better than quantity!
