A wonderful tote bag from Herve Chapelier. I read about the store in one of the shopping guides to Paris and went right there when I arrived. It is the best tote bag I ever had. It's made of nylon and they had a million colors and styles. No matter what I put in it (and believe me it was always stuffed) it kept it's shape and never killed my arm. It fit on my shoulder right close to my body and I always felt safe with everything I owned in it. Good zipper too. Went back before I left and bought a matching purse that fits right inside. Best $40 I ever spent. Can't get them in the States.

Thanks you for the information Randall--I agree with Claire in that I am very envious and dream about owning an apartment there. Is it possible for you to email me info. about the apartment since you do rent? My aunt is a frequent visitor to Paris and has been looking for a place to stay for an extended period of time. If you are interested in providing information, please let me know. Thanks!

Herve Chapelier bags are available in the States - I've seen them in plenty of shops, and I love 'em too! I have three. They're not available at that price, though, that's for sure...

Love this thread! Having wonderful memories of our shopping adventures. <BR> <BR>Silk scarves from little scarf shop close to the Opera <BR> <BR>Fake fur winter coat from Galleries Lafayette...love it, everyone asks where I got it :)...oh, Paris (sigh) <BR> <BR>Little espresso spoons from Monoprix <BR> <BR>Glitter powder from Sephora!

To Lizzie: <BR> <BR>Please tell me where you found the Herve Chapelier bags in the states. I'd love to get more.

Sharon - Where do you live? I'm in NYC, and the last place I saw the bags was at Bloomingdales, so I am sure you could phone order them... Here, they're available at quite a few boutiques including one on 3rd between 77th and 78th; can't think of the name. Scoop also used to have them. They've gotten more expensive, which is, I am sure, due to their popularity.

Thanks Lizzie. I'm from Staten Island but stuck in Nashville these days. I'll check out Bloomingdale's web site.

I forgot to mention these little velvet stretch gloves with a leopard design that I bought on the street for 14 francs. Love them.

Bonsoir,<BR><BR>Jocelyn and cdf, I will respond to you privately, and be happy to answer any questions that you may have concerning our adventure in Paris.<BR><BR>Sincerely,<BR><BR>Randy Smith <BR><BR>

topping

I purchase a limoges box every trip - something that reminds me of the other places I visit when I'm in Europe e.g., last time - Van Gogh on an easel after visiting the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam.<BR><BR>I also buy/stock up on Roger & Galliet orange/cinammon body wash, Lancome cosmetics (at least 25% less expensive than here plus samples!), Rene Furtier shampoo, shoes, and handbags.<BR><BR>I also make sure that I make a visit to the Lancome Institut for a facial (incredible!).

A "Madeline"- style coat and hat for our granddaughter--long navy wool with matching brimmed hat, of course with ribbon down the back! It looks beautiful on our blue-eyed blond. Another wonderful Parisian purchase: our daughter and her husband brought us back from their Paris honeymoon a wonderful banquet-sized tablecloth and napkins. The design is "Oiseaux" (Get it? that means "birds! Check my name.) Both purchases were at Galleries Lafayette.<BR><BR><BR>

Mariacallas & Surlok,<BR><BR>Thank you, thank you for the Cecile et Jeanne info, especially the website. I just took a peek, and, as a serious afficionado of artisan-designed jewelry, I was knocked out. Scary question - how much? Obviously, you don't have prices for everything, but can someone give me a sense of what a pair of earrings or a necklace might run? I need to know how many pennies to save between now and April, when I'm there. Related question, is the viaduc des arts worth a trip? I had planned to go last time, didn't make it, was thinking of going with my 13 year old daughter this trip. Merci.<BR><BR>

I love the whimsical artwork found at Galerie Benezit on rue de Seine; one of the artists does charming cat prints, all sizes and prices. Also the unique costume jewelry at Nelly Biche de Bere's stores throughout Paris. www.bichedebere.com

Pashmina, Rodin's "The Kiss"

Great thread, going in a few weeks, any recommendations of books strictly on shops in paris and where to find them? Thanks!

Where do I find a Monoprix store? I'm staying in the Latin Quarter at the Familia. Taking teens and thought it may be fun.

The most gorgeous fake fox fur and suede hat that matches my hair! Very exotic, almost indestructible, and everyone thinks it's real fur. $50.00, Galleries Lafayette. "Oh, this hat? In Paris..."<BR>ho hum. One Herm&eacute;-like scarf in pale pinks and beiges, $5.00 in tourist shop near Notre Dame. Tr&eacute;s jolie.

Jes-Monoprix is a chain of discount stores,all over Paris.I think there is one near the Latin Quarter, if not the big one is on av. de l'Opera.

OMG~ r-I got a hat in GL, it is black with a quilted nylon crown and black fox fur trim (faux) of course~and every time I wear it someone wants to know where they can get one! Are we cool or what?? :0) C