D.G. Hudson - Rainforest Writing: H = Haute Couture and Parisian Markets, French Faves

Thursday, April 9, 2015

H = Haute Couture and Parisian Markets, French Faves - A to Z Challenge

Fashion changes over the years, decade to decade, season to season. Some lasting trends reincarnate in 20 year cycles, get re-tweaked and seem new again. If it's Retro, it's been here before.

Hubert de Givenchy
A luxury French brand of haute couture clothing, accessories, and under the brand, Parfums Givenchy, perfumes and cosmetics.

Givenchy Retro Illustrations seen in Paris, by DG Hudson

H = Haute Couture and Parisian Markets

In Paris, it's always been about the big name designers, the ones who dress the celebrities, the wealthy and the movie industry. Some of these names now have retail lines for the masses, and status is always in for some social circles. We stayed in the Marais, where a younger element is prevalent, and these locals wore clothes that were timeless. No name brands evident. BTW - In Paris, Black is always 'in'.

Louis Vuitton
Another well-known brand of luxury items. (Luggage, handbags, and more.)

Louis Vuitton, Flagship store, Paris, by DG Hudson

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For a different kind of shopping experience:

Saturday Street Market in the Marais

These Street Markets set up early on Saturday and offer a variety of goods. This is in conjunction with recycled and handmade items being sold by vendors in the winding back streets, tucked among the private residences and schools.

Marais Street Market, Paris, by DG Hudson

A list of Markets for flowers,art, unusual items and more:

Paris Saturday Street Markets in the Marais, by DG Hudson

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Marché aux Fleurs

http://en.visitparisregion.com/attractions-paris/shopping/markets/marche-aux-fleurs-76437.html

Entirely dedicated to flowers, this picturesque little market on the lle de la Cité will be your most fragrant stop along the banks of the river Seine. Located just blocks away from Notre Dame de Paris on the Île de la Cité. It's the last of its kind in Paris and is a pleasant surprise. We bought two pieces of art work (watercolour illustrations) here.

The Saint-Ouen Flea Market

History of the Flea Market

http://www.discoverfrance.net/France/Paris/Shopping/Paris_fleamkts.shtml

Includes a musical interlude. . .
http://www.st-ouen-tourisme.com/en/decouvertes/fiche/1927-visitez-le-marche-aux-puces.html

Between the years 1880 and 1900, the traveller who left Paris via the Porte de Clignancourt would pass the sloping bank of Louis-Philippe's fortified city walls,and the makeshift market stalls and inns set up in the middle of the fields and market gardens.

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Do you like shopping for buried treasure in flea markets, second-hand stalls and street markets? Have you shopped in Paris for items to bring home?

Please leave a comment to let me know you stopped by, and if you are part of the A to Z Challenge. I'll be sure to check your blog, and reciprocate. If you're not in the challenge, thanks for stopping by to visit! I try to reply to all comments.

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The A to Z Blog Challenge is brainchild of Lee, at Tossing It Out. Please visit the A to Z blog site to find out more information and the participant list. There are also Twitter and Facebook presences if you want to check those!