Done to death, I know, BUT I need some help. I'm leaving for Paris. I've been before and spent a mint on small, touristy things & felt I had nothing but junk to show for it. Now. I would like some dedicated shoppers advice on what luxury items are GOOD BUY there. This can range from tabletop, shoes, handbags, apparel, cosmetics, fragrances & house ware - preferably anything that doesn't need to be shipped. I would hate to spend time buying a LV handbag, for example, and discover that the cost was the same at home. Thanks for any help!

My favorite things to bring back are lotions/cosmetics/hair care stuff from the pharmacies. The same high-end brands here can cost 10x as much, even at Sephora. Check it out!<BR><BR>If you like Mephisto shoes, definitely get them in France rather than the US --you'll be amazed at the price difference.<BR><BR>I also bring back high-quality French chocolate, both from the supermarche and boutique chocolatiers.

Crystal items by Baccarat, Daum, St Louis, and Lalique are less expensive in Paris, especially if you buy at a discount store like Cristal Vendome, next to the entrance of the Intercontinental Hotel on rue Castiglione. You can take it with you, or they ship.<BR>Also French perfumes of course. I like to shop at Catherine, just down the same street from Cristal Vendome at #5.<BR>

I second the store just off the lobby of the Grand Intercontinental on Rue de Castiglione, corner of Rue de Rivoli. Huge savings on purses and watches. Really nice people!

Herve Chapelier bags; has his own stores a couple of different locations.

Thanks so much for the first hand information. (I had always heard that Catherine's prices were great, but it's nice to have confirmation.) I usually "pre-shop" at home for items I might want to buy and note the US prices so I can recognise a good buy. This trip I don't have time to do my homework and really appreciate the feedback.

Splurger, A friend of mine just got in from Paris and says Longchamp and Celine handbags are 40% less than U.S. prices.

Longchamps are a really great buy! and si is Herve Chapelear

I'll "third" the Longchamps recommendation. At least 40% if not more, less costly there than here. Gorgeous leathers and the nylons sacs fold up and are great in various colors and sizes. I was at the Left Bank shop, on rue des Vieux Columbiers, I think; centrally located. Have a blast.

ttt