On the Lighter Side, Winter Shopping in Paris… Soldes

January 2016 Paris "Soldes"

January 2016 Paris “Soldes”

Stunning window displays intrigue and beckon the shoppers inside to profit from the clearance….

Yet more shopping … Mais oui ! It is contemporary culture, retail therapy as “they” say.

After an abundance of food, family and friends during the winter holidays, it is time to breathe, reflect and pick up a few bargains for 2016.  And now, for some winter shopping in Paris!

This year from 6 January to 16 February, shops will clear inventory to make room for the spring nouveautés and collections. Winter shopping in Paris is like no other. The annual January soldes (sales) are some people’s reason for a visit to Paris: Department stores, shops and boutiques offer a rich variety of selections from haute couture to ready-to wear bargains. By the third mark-down prices can fall to 70% of regular prices. Concept stores, art galleries, and home furnishings present creative solutions to the boredom of the ordinary.

January 2016 Paris "Soldes"

January 2016 Paris “Soldes”

Thought provoking ensemble of espresso cups; clearly a unique gift for those who have ‘everything’.

January 2016 Paris "Soldes"

January 2016 Paris “Soldes”

Satisfied, well-dressed shoppers win with bargain prices.

January 2016 Paris "Soldes"

January 2016 Paris “Soldes”

Something for all tastes and all occasions.

January 2016 Paris "Soldes"

January 2016 Paris “Soldes”

Fresh, ‘comfy’ bedding … always a fresh treat to start the new year..

January 2016 Paris "Soldes"

January 2016 Paris “Soldes”

Spring and fall are always an opportune and favored time for a new ‘sac à main’ (handbag).

January 2016 Paris "Soldes"

January 2016 Paris “Soldes”

And, last but not least… remember the shoes!

  (perhaps good advice for any sales)!

USEFUL TIPS: HOW TO MAKE THE BEST OUT OF THE PARIS WINTER SALES 2016   

  • Prepare for the sales before the sales: do all your research and fitting a day or two prior to the first day of the Paris winter sales 2016. It will save you a lot of time and patience!
  • Select the places you want to go to: there are many shopping areas in Paris, all with their different styles and specialties. You can’t do them all in one day.
  • Choose the best time to save time: although Parisians sometimes take a day off work to enjoy the “Soldes”, you are less likely to have to muscle your way through a dense crowd on a weekday, preferable at lunchtime or in the morning.
  • Dress intelligently to undress quickly: you don’t want to spend ages in the fitting rooms untying those countless laces or peeling off too many layers. Efficiency is the key.
  • Make sure to buy the right item: yes! treat yourself to nice clothes and shoes, but know that many shops will not accept returns or exchanges.

Take a risk: if you are really looking for cheap prices, hit the stores at the end of the Paris Winter Sales 2016. The remaining items will be heavily discounted. But will you find something you like?
*

Page Links:

http://www.timeout.com/paris/en/shopping/the-100-best-shops-in-Paris

http://www.parisian.com

blank