Photo courtesy of Merci
As with their approach to fashion, food and design, the French bring an innate sense of style to gift-giving. A present here isn’t just a gesture, but a reflection of taste, attention and creativity. Paris makes that art easy to master, its plethora of independent boutiques, concept stores and ateliers offering an endless source of inspiration for unique gifts.
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Just as effortlessly as sourcing a perfectly ripe brie for a dinner party, Parisians seem to instinctively know exactly where to head for their presents, whether they need a scented candle from a niche perfumer, hand-thrown ceramics from a local maker, or a vintage object with quirky back-story. But don’t be fooled — it’s less about extravagance, more about meaning, choosing something that feels personal, and perhaps a little unexpected.
Having scoured the city’s addresses, here’s our edit of the best places in Paris to find one-of-a-kind treasures for the people you care about.
For something refined…
When it comes to picking out a gift for a friend with polished taste, a piece from Alix D. Reynis is sure to impress. With stores on both the right and left bank of Paris, its the perfect place to pick up something classically French, from white porcelain soap dishes with a vintage vibe, to delicately tooled jewelry boxes, and delightfully ornamental incense diffusers. We particularly love their scented products, from sophisticated soaps, to statement candles and refillable perfumes.
Alix D Reynis
22 Rue Jacob, 75006
14 Rue Commines, 75003
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For something for everyone…
While Merci is no secret, this address has to be an all time favorite come the holiday season. A multi-floor concept store curating French products for men, women, children and the home, there’s truly something to gift everyone — even pets! There’s a lot to browse, but we find Merci’s own range of products a good place to start — their iconic bags and knits make for great presents come winter.
Merci
111 Bd Beaumarchais, 75003
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For something eccentric…
For gifts with a unique twist, Messy Nessy’s Cabinet is our destination of choice. The latest project by Instagram and blog sensation Vanessa Grall, who’s eye on Paris enthralled us all, this small boutique in the Latin Quarter curates a curious collection of objects with a unique perspective on the city. From antiques with endless charm, to tiny vials of Seine water, each piece is playful and quietly quirky, making them great conversation starters.
Messy Nessy’s Cabinet
19 rue de Bièvre, 75005
For something modern…
For something sleek and modern, we love stopping by Aesavant, a minimal concept store in the 1st arrondissement. While they also showcase a selection of men and women’s clothing (and a few design items), it’s the jewelry section that we always head to first when we’re thinking of others. Delicate, sculptural, avant-garde, their rings, bracelets and necklaces carry an effortlessly cool vibe, and make a great addition to any wardrobe.
Aesavant
1 Rue Thérèse, 75001
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For something indulgent…
Can you ever go wrong with a truly decadent candle? We don’t think so… Wrapped in a rich, indulgent scent, candles can make excellent gifts — especially if sourced from a luxury heritage brand. When in Paris, there’s no-where else we’re shopping for our candles than at Trudon. With exquisite scents and containers that are home décor in their own right, they are a staple on our gift list year-round.
Trudon
1 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004
78 Rue de Seine, 75006
Discover similar pieces in the MFCH Boutique
