Paris shopping : made in France?
 

Are clothes in Paris generally made in France, regardless of the price range? I live in Canada and most of the clothes sold, are made in the off-shore (Asia), regardless of price range. I would like to do some serious shopping on my next Paris trip but would like to buy made in France items in the price range of Talbots here in Canada.

French laws concerning "Made in France" are very strict. Every garment made in France or on one of its overseas territories or departments must clearly state such. You don't have to worry about purchasing the "real thing" if you look at the label. And you'll be able to tell from the quality of the workmanship and the stitches, etc. I'm sure some clothes are knock-offs made in some illegal atelier in the Paris' Sentier district, but all in all, you don't need to worry. Also, laws against counterfeit merchandise are very, very strict in France. Since the early 1990's ANYONE caught bringing a "fake" article into the country could be fined and even imprisoned. So be careful if you have any fakes and travel with them, because if tney are noticed by French customs, you are going to be in for some serious problems legally. In reputable French stores, pride is taken in the merchandise and you won't have any problems with purchasing the real thing. Just look for label. It must be on the product.

Yes some are made in third world countries, but you must read the labels. I was shocked to see one of my fav desighners tres cher sweaters was made in China.

It seems to me you want to know are most of the clothes sold in Paris made in France, even at cheap discount stores? No, absolutely not, it's just like any other place, they are made in 3rd world countries with cheap labor. At least that's true of cheaper clothing, I'm sure it's different for the most expensive things that they are made in France.<BR><BR>Don't go to France expecting to find cheap clothing made in France.

Hi Kay,<BR> Christina is correct. Clothing manufacture is a global enterprise. Expect &quot;Fabrique' en France&quot; only at the higher price ponts.

While shopping in Galleries Lafayette, keep an eye out for French designers and made in France labels. While I have gotten Max Mara jackets that are sold in the US also, they were not as expensive in Paris and the style of jacket was something that I have never seen in NYC, which is a treat for me as I try to find things not seen on everyone walking by.<BR>I have gotten great sweaters in the Marais in small boutiques at a fraction of the price of a good wool sweater, shoes are always well priced if you look in the right places. While I am not adverse to buying &quot;names&quot; I loove finding something &quot;no-name&quot; that is stylish and well priced.<BR> You can definitely do Serious shopping in Paris! :)