How To Make The Most Of Your First Paris Fashion Week
Where better to celebrate the ever-intriguing world of fashion than in the city that gave us Dior, Chanel and YSL? There’s only one: Paris.
As a first-time visitor to Paris Fashion Week, it can be as overwhelming as it is intriguing. With shameless high-fashion dominating the streets, delicate, waif-like models at every turn and the occasional champagne brunch to attend, the world’s leading haute couture event is one to behold – and a guaranteed bucket list tick.
Widely regarded as the global fashion event, Semaine de la mode de Paris is held twice a year for the spring/summer and autumn/winter seasons, with designer presentations – ranging from big names like Dior to smaller start-up labels – taking place at venues across the city in a whirlwind four-day event.
At this time of year, you’ll find the city’s chicest venues awash with photographers and A‑listers, pop-up shops on every corner and an enigmatic energy unlike any other. It’s Paris at its most electric.
If, like us, you won’t be receiving an invite to Chanel’s runway show anytime soon, here are a few ways to make the most of your time in the capital during France’s foremost fashion extravaganza.
What to wear to Paris Fashion Week: How to look stylish in Paris
Whether you’re into black tie or tie die, there’s no outfit too weird or wonderful. If you’re lucky enough to get on a guest list, runway shows generally have no dress code, so stay comfortable.
Don’t forget, with hundreds of guests attending beneath heat-emitting lights, it gets hot quickly in most venues. Feel like peacocking amidst a crowded Champs-Élysées of an evening? Go for it. It’s Paris Fashion Week, after all.
Where to eat and drink: chic eateries in Paris
As we all know, the Parisian dining scene is as trendy as its clientele. If you’re looking to rub shoulders with fashionistas, models and actors, book a table at La Perle in the city’s Le Marais district or Brasserie Lipp for flawless French fare at the heart of Saint Germain.
To escape the hustle and bustle, Café Ruc is an understated brasserie popular with Parisians, while the recently re-opened Beef Bar is perfect for a steak. For more of a party atmosphere while dining, check out jet-set favourite Edern.
Where to shop for Paris Fashion
When it comes to retail in Paris, we’re spoilt for choice. But during Fashion Week, things kick up a notch. With off-the-cuff pop-ups and shabby-chic events galore, Le Marais is perhaps the most interesting district to explore – away from the crowds of Tuileries and Avenue Montaigne.
Popular with younger members of the fashion pack, there are endless treasures to be discovered among its countless boutiques and independent stores. It’s also a high fashion haven.
How to see a runway show at Paris Fashion Week
If you’re not already on the guest list, you’re going to find it hard to attend any big-brand runway shows. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. There are plenty of small, up-and-coming labels showcasing their latest and greatest in Paris.
For many of these, you’ll be able to buy tickets directly or attend trunk shows, where previews are offered to would-be customers at various venues. Keep your eyes and ears open and you’ll find the right event for you.
From big tourist attractions to nightlife hotspots, there’s plenty to see and do in the French capital. Check out our full guide to Paris to ensure you hit the right spots.