One more question for Paris shopping mavens!
 

Hi Fellow Paris Shoppers!
If you had limited time to do only one of the big Paris shopping centers, which would you pick and why:
1) Galleries Lafayette;
2) Printemps; or
3) Bon Marche?
Of course, being able to get the tax refund easily is a big plus for any of the choices.
My main focus would be on women's shoes and clothing (emphasis on up-and-coming French designers).
Limited time in Paris...THANKS!
--Betty

Betty, I'll be different and say the BHV!!! Just kidding, I'd probably go for the Galeries Lafayette, especially if you want to do the tax refund fairly painlessly. AND for its lovely dome! :)

I enjoy browsing at Bon Marche -- but I look at men's clothing. Don't know the tax part as I actually haven't bought anything there.

But with limited time, maybe GL or Printemps is a better choice, as the two are right next to each other.

However, you probably have more boutiques in the area near Bon Marche though.

It's probably a matter of taste, but I think the BM suits me better, though I've not been to the other two since the summer of 2002.

With what you want to buy and the specifications, Galleries Lafayette. But as 111 said, it's next door to Printemps, which is MY personal favorite place to shop, so you should have time for both.

I did both Gallerie Lafayette and Printemps...didn't have enough time in Printemp but I did find a beautiful scarf for my neice and Printemps that was less than any I had seen at Gallerie. Also, just across the street from Gallerie is Bouchera..linens etc..I though their prices were great and got some table clothes etc...I have used them for alsmost two years now, they have washed very well and still look fresh and nice. Also, as I understand, Gallerie Layfayette has opened their new home store across the street from the main store in the old Marks & Spencer space...so if you have limited time, this puts several places very close to each other that you could check out. I see your focus is on clothing and shoes..I have to say that I was totally drooling all over the shoes at Gallerie Layfayette....just incredible styles and all georgous. If you love shoes like I do you'll go nuts even if you don't buy. Happy shopping.

Try Colette's on rue st-Honore for cutting edge fashion.

My favorite is Bon Marche, however, GL gives tourists a 10% discount on top of the 12% VAT refund. Bring your passport to the information desk on the main floor, and they give you a shopping pass.

Thanks to you all for such great advice! Now, if only that U.S. dollar would cooperate with me...

Cheers,
Betty (NYC)

Betty, if you live in NYC, I'm not sure what you'll find in a dept store (esp. up and coming designers) that you couldn't get in NYC. You might be better off in smaller boutiques. Here's a list

http://www.timeout.com/paris/shops/12.html

It the timing is good, catch the fashion show at Galleries Lafayette.

mclaurie,

Thanks for that link! I did plan on exploring some small boutiques, but I also figured on taking advantage of the discounts and tax refund provided by a place like Galleries Lafayette.

Best regards

Hi betty,
I would pick Galleries Lafayette.
As mentioned, it is easy with the detax being right there..the domed ceiling is worth the visit and there are prices,sizes and styles for everyone in that place!

Oh yes, Betty, you must definitely check out a fashion show if you get the chance!! :)
I think they run Tuesdays & Fridays around 2-ish!

My choice would be Galleries Lafayette for both ambiance and style. Happy shopping, Betty. And tell us what you bought afterwards!