2nd Arrondissement Shops

French-girl fashion is, in part, about effortlessness. But if you’ve ever tried to look effortless, you know it takes some intention to get there. Sézane makes clothes that embody Parisian je ne sais quoi, from perfectly cut denim to easy-breezy summer dresses.

There are many and varied Oh My Cream boutiques around Paris—jump if you see one, and go right in—but we do love the Monmartre flagship. Get a next-level facial in the chicly minimalist treatment rooms, and discover incredible clean brands from all over the world (including goop Beauty, naturellement).

This fantastic little travel bookshop is owned by the major travel agency across the street. While this may seem like a clever sales ploy, that doesn’t detract from the selection. Here you’ll find novels and nonfiction from around the world—some in English—along with maps, city guides, and a considered edit of handsome and practical travel accessories.

Started by three brothers (whose family made its fortune from French brand, Comptoir des Cotonniers), this brand splashed out across Paris aggressively and loudly. Their ad campaigns—of stylish couples who both look, and dress alike—are a good reflection of the subtly tough and subtly unisex wares here. Leather bomber jackets, black skinny jeans, and streamlined sweaters are all part of the mix. Other locations: 4th Arrondissement, 6th Arrondissement, plus other locations.

Whether you’re a baker or not, G. Detou is worth a visit. The walls are stacked (literally) from floor to ceiling with specialty baking ingredients for even the most ambitious baking project: artisian flower, specialty oils, metallic cake decorations, and even edible flowers. Their selection of dark chocolate is one of the best in the city.

Rose Repetto’s now-iconic brand is as known for their colorful ballet flats as they are for the shoes that outfit the world’s prima ballerinas. After a revitalization in 2000 and a string of high-profile collaborations with brands like Comme des Garçons, Balenciaga, and Yohji Yamamoto, you can find Repetto flats everywhere (in a trademark, 64-pack of colors), though a visit to the Opera flagship is still really worthwhile.

If diagnostic tests are your bag, you'll love Nose's recommendation technology, which uses your perfume history to predict what fragrances and home scents you'll like best. While you can do the test online—and shop an encyclopedia of brands right there—an in-store consultation is inarguably more fun, as you can vet the recommendations in person. If nothing from Miller Harris, Acqua di Parma, Penhaligon's, et al. fits the bill, Nose will whip up a custom scent.

While its décor is colorful and eye-catching, the shoes and bags here skew more toward the understated. It’s an interesting mix of French and American brands with an eye toward lowkey luxe. Laurence Dacade boots mingle with K. Jacques and Ancient Greek Sandals, along with a handful of streamlined satchels from brands like Alexandre Mareuil and Cahu.