Welcome to Out of Office… Who What Wear UK’s chic travel guide that provides you with the most stylish take on any given destination by tapping creatives who know where to stay, what to eat and, more importantly, which items to pack. This month, Who What Wear UK Contributing Editor Avalon Afriyie shares her tips for a memorable trip to Paris.
I know the appeal of Paris all too well. My deep affinity with the city started at age eleven when my favourite pastime consisted of frequenting HMV in search of films with any mention of Paris in the blurb. Regular readers may be accustomed to my incongruous “throw caution to the wind” migration tale, though if not, after two decades of being enamoured by French culture, a devoted viewer of French film and reader of literature, in July 2023 I packed my bags for my favourite city and have fallen deeper in love ever since. It’s had its challenges, but each day I wake up indebted to it and grateful to be in one of the most rousing and fruitful cities in the world. Dubbed the place for creatives, the city of love and lights, it’s one of the most aspirational destinations for travellers and at a mere Eurostar journey away from London, it’s certainly plausible for a long weekend break. Since uprooting, I’ve amassed something of a directory—places to see, shop, and eat, many of which are hidden treasures. Scroll on to discover my ultimate guide to Paris.
1. Where to Stay
Hôtel Dame des Arts: A home-from-home situated in the popular Latin Quarter and river Gauche (and a stone’s throw away from the La Seine) with a contemporary elegance and generously sized bedrooms complete with Diptyque toiletries. Its in-house restaurant Dame overlooks a botanical courtyard with resident chef Othoniel Alvarez Casteneda at the helm. Casteneda has cultivated a menu with seasonal ingredients to reflect the taste of his heritage, albeit with a refined twist. Expect zingy tuna Tostado, fresh seafood caldo and Mexican-inspired deserts — the mole chocolate ganache being a personal favourite. Here, you’ll be walking distance from Jardin du Luxembourg, Panthéon, Shakespeare and Company (a longstanding bookstore for anglophiles) and Le Caveau de la Huchette – an underground jazz club where you’re guaranteed an unforgettable night.
Grand Pigalle Hôtel: Nestled in the heart of SoPi (an acronym coined by locals for South Pigalle) lies Grand Pigalle Hôtel, an unassuming boutique hotel in a lively artistic district. You’ll recognise it for its navy lacquer which directly contrasts the stone-hued Haussmann buildings. The establishment boasts 37 rooms, with homely characteristics — many with a wraparound balcony, so you can take in the charm of Pigalle and neighbouring Montmartre. Whereas many tourists make a beeline for central spots, you’ll have an authentic taste of Parisian life here.
2. What to Pack
Since moving to Paris, I’ve become well-versed in the nuance of French style and elements that constitute the (what feels like) inherent nonchalance French sartorialists exude. Through said observations, I’ve grown increasingly discerning and I’ve honed in on my sense of style, which welcomes many French elements, whilst feeling individual. As we ebb towards spring, I’ll be reintroducing gabardine trench coats, flounced dresses and celebrating natural fabrications. For travel to the capital in the coming months, consider packing a streamlined collection you can wear in myriad ways — a crisp poplin shirt, rattan accessories, and longline skirt (of which there are plenty on offer this season). I’ve piqued the endearing way tourists don Parisian style garb (namely berets, mid-wash denim and Breton stripe t-shirts) on their jaunts to the capital but where packing is concerned, I recommend prioritising comfort, layering pieces, interchangeable items and accessories aplenty. NB — save space in your luggage for the likes of French retailers, such as Rouje, Sézane, Jonak and Lou Lou Studios…the list continues.
Shop my Wardrobe:
Musier Paris
Slingbacks Lecche
Doen
Ischia Shirred Midi Dress
COS
Double-Faced Wool Column Maxi Skirt
Celine Eyewear
Triomphe Oval Acetate Sunglasses
TOTEME
Pleated Organic Cotton-Jersey Midi Dress
Longchamp
Le Pliage Original Large Shoulder Bag, Black
CAES
Relaxed Blouse Pleated Shoulder
Arket
Oversized Wool Hopsack Blazer
3. Where to Shop
Le Marais is one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations, however, there are pockets and destinations dotted around the city that I would advise. For a varied shopping experience in spectacular buildings, head to Le Bon Marche, or Galleries Lafayette and seal your visit with a trip to the rooftop for an undisturbed Eiffel Tower view. The gamut of labels to be accustomed to can feel overwhelming, so here’s a reference point of some of my tried and tested French brands.
Sézane: I recommend Sézane’s rue Saint Fairce store to everyone. You’ll enter an apartment-style store boasting Sézane’s iconic and expansive colour wheel, in addition to vintage-style homewares.
Bobbies and Jonak: For quality French-inspired footwear. Rouje: Visionary Jeanne Damas comprises a rotating capsule of Gallic women’s favourites. Here you’ll find, fuzzy cardigans bias silken dresses and wrap minis for all ages and styles.
Centre commercial: You won’t have to hunt far for the likes of Baserange, Aede and Veja!
Soeur: An independent French brand to become accustomed to.
Frankie Shop: Expert minimalism and a laid-back shopping experience.
La Vallée Village: A discounted designer outlet in Serris, a short train ride away from central Paris.
For vintage shopping, I recommend paying Bobby’s Vintage, Celia Darling and Chinemachine a visit.
4. Where to Eat
Birthplace of the Michelin Guide, France has become synonymous with gastronomy, thus home to many fine dining establishments — making devouring your way through the city a sensational experience. With a varied, multicultural population, it’s also a melting pot of cuisines from which to take your pick — from Vietnamese’s signature banh mi (in the crusty French baguette, no less) or soothing pho, to Middle Eastern Street food. Of course, leave room for French classics like French onion soup, and the steak frites experience. Sure longstanding establishments such as Le relais de l’entrecote, Angelina, L’Avenue and Cafe Flore have well-earned cult status but it would be a shame to stop there. But before dinner, let’s start with breakfast.
I like to think that training myself in the art of a good croissant comes with the territory of being a Parisian in the making. To the untrained eye, a croissant is a croissant, however, a perfectly laminated pastry can set your day on an upward trajectory. You’ll be hard-pressed to find an unsatisfactory pastry in Paris but one thing I’ve learned is that recommendations wouldn’t go amiss. With that said some of my favourite boulangeries, pâtisseries and cafes can be found below:
Des Pain Des Ideas: At approximately €5.50 for my favourite pastry (escargot pistache chocolat) it’s not for the faint-hearted but with every bite, you do begin to appreciate the reasonings for its many
accreditations plastered on the exterior.
Mamiche: Three words – decadent chocolate babka.
Liberté Paris: With collaboration with no other than Sezane, it’s both a stylish
The French Bastards: A contemporary and innovative and filled baked.
Pain Pain: With a north-facing view of Sacré Coeur, Rue des Martyrs is coined one of Paris’ most aesthetic streets also known for its myriad delis, café and boulangeries. Pain Pain is by far my favourite in that quarter.
Sain Boulangerie: For a chausson aux pommes two parts caramel and one part chunky fruit, make a beeline for San Boulangerie, dotted in many of Paris’ popular districts. Serving artisanal and decadent bakes, it’s a favourite of many Parisians.
Buddy Buddy: Creamy nut-infused coffees. It’s a new favourite of mine.
The Coffee: For a smooth, earthy matcha.
With my newly coined foodie title, I’ve dined everywhere from Le Privé de dessert (a concept restaurant serving main dishes disguised as desserts) to Kodawari Ramen a Paris spot disguised as a fish market in the Tokyo metropolis. Lately, I dined at Daroco Bourse (Bourse being a premium shopping destination for the likes of Polène) and sampled a three-course dinner of pesto trofie, langoustine tartare (an excellent alternative for non-meat eaters craving the tartare experience) and finished with shared a generous portion of tiramisu and whipped chocolate mousse.
You’ll find more tried and tested spots below:
Bambou: An example of culinary excellence.
Chez Janou: A quaint bistro tucked in the backstreets on Le Marais. It’s worth visiting for the decadent chocolate mousse alone.
Le Vieux Bistrot: A friendly family-run establishment known for its speciality fromage. Once you finish dining take a stroll down Rue Mouffetard.
Faubourg Daimant: Many French dishes are decadent and rich with dairy, however, Fauborg Diamant’s plant-based menu is entirely inspired and borrows the original Parisian bistro form with slow, thoughtful meals highlighting vegetables.
Les Refuge des Fondus: A lively eaterie serving meat and cheese fondus. The little red door opens to eclectic decor and a bustling atmosphere. Typical dining etiquette is left at the front
door in place of a jovial, rambunctious atmosphere with bubbling frontage. It’s become a renowned spot for wine served from baby bottles (to prevent spillage) and tables you may just have to climb over to be seated.
Early June: Finally, situated on the left bank of Canal St Martin you’ll find Early June — a quaint wine bar and restaurant with a completely innovative concept. The establishment hosts a rotation of travelling chefs per few weeks subsequently refreshing the menu.
4. What to Do
Paris’ rich history and cultural influence make it one of the most aspiration cities in the world and weaving in around the city’s Haussmann buildings whilst attending the many exhibitions the city has to offer is one of its selling points. Luckily for museumgoers like myself, there are plenty to choose from. The Louvre, Musee d’Orsay, Musée Rodin and Musée de l’Orangerie are beloved by many, however, it’s worth researching based on your vested areas of interest. For lovers of fashion, La Galerie Dior is currently showcasing a new exhibition, through May 2024.
It’s worth noting that each month Musee d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie have free admission with booking every first Sunday of the month.
Bookmark the following entertainment venues:
Oh My God She’s Parisian: You may be familiar with Julie Colas’ Instagram profile and outlandish humour that plays on French stereotypes. Her one-woman-play is currently showing at Théâtre BO Saint-Martin.
Lost in Frenchlation: Lost in Frenchlation brings French cinema to internal communities with screenings of acclaimed French films with English subtitles. It’s a non-intimating way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Parks: One of my favourite pastimes in the city is finding a dry chair, and sunspot and taking a book and coffee to a green space. My favourites include: Palais Royal, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries and Place des Vosges.
Streets for browsing:
Rue Mouffetard: A bustling shopping street.
Quai Valmy: Stroll alongside the canal and dip in and out of the many neighbouring boutiques and cafes.
Place Vendôme: a grandiose atmosphere where you can take in Louis XIV’s masterpiece.
Rue de l’Abreuvoir: Coined Paris’ prettiest streets.
Rue des Martyrs: From the top to the bottom, you’ll find vintage stores, eateries and delicatessens.