The PFW Survival Guide
Because there's such a thing as too much fashion
Paris Fashion Week has descended on the French capital, meaning for the next seven days the city of love is even more chaotic than usual. And for some (myself included), it’s the final stretch of this four and a half week long marathon we call fashion Month. So whether you’re in town for PFW and need a moment of calm, or you’re just looking to live like a local, check out my Parisian tips created in collaboration with Reiss below.
For that morning coffee head to the coolest new spot in Le Marais, Ob-La-Di. With it’s slick interiors and small but delicious menu, this hole in the wall is well worth a visit. If you’re hungry don’t miss their smashed avo on toast.
54 Rue de Saintonge, 75003 Paris
Where to get a few hours work done
Cafe slash co-working space, Craft has fast wifi and makes a mean iced latte. Spend 3 euros at the bar for an hour working in the shared space out the back.
24 Rue des Vinaigriers, 75010 Paris
How to get around Paris
Parisian subways aren’t exactly the cleanest and Fashion Week traffic can get a little crazy, so without a doubt the best way to get around Paris is via bicycle. French drivers may have a reputation for being angry, but provided you are confident and have your wits about you then I say go for it. Plus there are plenty of dedicated bike lines along Canal St Martin and River Seine which make for beautiful riding. Pike up a Velib from any docking station around Paris.
http://en.velib.paris.fr/How-it-works
Where to get a quality mani/pedi
Finding a good nail salon isn’t the easiest task – but Prana on Rue Dupetit Thouars does an excellent pedicure and gel nails. The place is small so it pays to call ahead and make a booking. It’s also conveniently located next door to Fondation Cafe for a quick coffee pitstop afterwards.
12 Rue Dupetit-Thouars, 75003 Paris
For any last minute other beauty needs La Sultane de Saba in the 2eme is fast, professional and always good for a last minute booking.
8 Bis Rue Bachaumont, 75002 Paris
The perfect place for a relaxed breakfast/lunch/dinner
Newly opened Season reflects the new face of Paris – it’s healthy, serves fresh juice, great cocktails and is almost always open (aka non stop service, 7 days a week). Head here on a sunny day and pick a perch by the window for some people watching in Le Marais.
1 Rue Charles-François Dupuis, 75003 Paris
For a trustworthy tailor head to Sinten on Rue Saint Roch
23 Rue Saint-Roch, 75001 Paris
Where to pick up a few groceries
Unlike New York and London, Paris isn’t heaving with organic supermarkets, but they do exist. Head to Bio c Bon (which you can find in most parts of Paris – just enter into Google maps) for the closest thing you’re going to get to Wholefoods.
www.bio-c-bon.eu/fr
Where to wind down after a big day
After a long day, cocktail bar Artisian in Pigalle makes a strong (and carefully prepared) drink just when you need it. For about 12 euros a pop, Artisian mixes up traditional cocktails with a fresh new twist.
14 Rue Bochart de Saron, 75009 Paris
Created in collaboration with Reiss
