The Fashion Editor's Ultimate Guide to Paris: Where to Eat, Sleep & Shop
By Nicola Campbell-Turnbull
Paris was always my favourite fashion week, a city where I could pretend, just for a few days, that I lived there. I adored the 6th arrondissement for its charming streets, perfect for window shopping from bookshops to fashion boutiques as I made my way to 'work' at the Carrousel du Louvre, the hub of Paris Fashion Week. That peaceful morning stroll was the calm before the whirlwind of shows, fittings, and events. While the 'it' spots shift from season to season, here’s my insider guide to where to eat, sleep, and shop during Paris Fashion Week.
Where to Stay during Paris Fashion Week
During Paris Fashion Week, I used to frequent a little gem called Hotel Ferrandi in the 6th arrondissement, a favourite among fashion journalists for its prime location. It was perfect for a late-night dash to meet our legendary catwalk photographer, Chris Moore, to pick images. While Hotel Ferrandi has since closed, its chic replacement, Hotel Belle Juliette, is the epitome of style and comfort.
Hotel Belle Juliette
Nestled in the fashionable 6th arrondissement, Hotel Belle Juliette offers a fashion-forward blend of Parisian elegance and modern luxury. The hotel’s interiors nod to the city’s rich history with a contemporary twist, making it a perfect retreat after a long day of Fashion Week shows. Located just a short walk from the South Bank and the Seine, it's the ideal base for fashion lovers who want to explore Paris in style while being close to the fashion hub at the Louvre.
Hotel Saint André des Arts
On my last visit, with Belle Juliette fully booked, I found its sister hotel, Hotel Saint André des Arts. This stylish boutique hotel, tucked away in the heart of the 6th arrondissement, embodies Parisian charm and artistic flair. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, offering a calm yet sophisticated space to recharge. Its location places you right in the bohemian quarter, offering a perfect blend of culture, fashion, and convenience—a hidden gem for anyone following the fashion week trail.
Hotel Saint André des Arts, 66 Rue Saint André des Arts 75006
Madame Rêve
Housed in the former Louvre Post Office, Madame Rêve is one of Paris’s newest boutique gems. With 82 elegantly designed rooms offering breathtaking views of the city, this hotel is a true sanctuary for those wanting a stylish yet serene stay. The rooftop, where sunrise yoga takes place, boasts panoramic views including a perfect glimpse of the Eiffel Tower. Despite the grandeur of chandeliers and high ceilings, the space feels intimate and cosy. Ideally located near the Louvre and a short walk to the vibrant Marais district, it's perfectly situated for fashion lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Start your day with pastries from the historic Stohrer patisserie, just a couple of blocks away, a Parisian tradition dating back to 1730.
Madame Rêve, 48 rue du Louvre 75001 Paris
Where to Eat & Drink
Hotel Costes
Hotel Costes, nestled in the heart of Paris, is a quintessential fashion week hotspot where I would inevitably meet my fashion editor friend from The Express. Known for its luxurious yet intimate ambiance, it’s the perfect spot to grab a cold drink and a nibble between shows. The shaded courtyard provides the ideal vantage point to people-watch, with fashion week’s elite—designers, models, and celebrities—frequently spotted sipping cocktails or holding impromptu meetings. It’s the place where the glamour of Paris Fashion Week seamlessly mingles with everyday elegance.
Hotel Costes, 7 Rue de Castiglione, 75001 Paris
LouLou
Nestled inside the Musée des Arts Décoratifs at the Louvre, Loulou offers one of the most picturesque outdoor dining experiences in Paris. With views of stunning architecture, the Tuileries Garden, and the Eiffel Tower in the distance, it’s a prime spot for an alfresco evening. The Italian menu features delights like artichoke salad and small pizzas, though not all dishes are equally impressive. But let’s be honest—you don’t come to Loulou just for the food. It’s all about sipping rosé on one of Paris’s prettiest terraces, surrounded by a chic, international crowd, while indulging in a little burrata or salad on a balmy evening.
Le Petit Lutetia
Le Petit Lutetia, is a classic brasserie by Jean-Louis Costes. It’s Parisian perfection— just let a generous pour of red wine slip down with impeccable steak frites, and a chic, fashionable crowd that offers prime people-watching.
La Coupole
No trip to Paris is complete for me without a visit to La Coupole. This iconic brasserie has been a staple since 1927, beloved for its grand Art Deco interiors and timeless charm. The buzz of the waiting staff delivering towering platters of seafood to eager diners is all part of the experience. While it’s not exactly on the Fashion Week radar, it’s a place where I’ve enjoyed many a post-show dinner, soaking in the Parisian atmosphere. From oysters to classic French fare, La Coupole is a must-visit when you want to savour a piece of Parisian history with your meal.
La Coupole, 102 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris,
Where to Shop
Avenue Montaigne and Rue Saint-Honoré: Home to flagship stores of top designers like Dior, Chanel, and Balenciaga.
Le Bon Marché: Paris’s most elegant department store, offering a curated selection of luxury brands and designer collaborations.
Concept Stores: Visit Colette’s spiritual successor, Nous, for a mix of fashion, art, and lifestyle items.