6 Best Places to Shop in France

Louis Vuitton has spawned a voracious fan base from Texas to Tokyo with its mix of classic leather goods and saucy revamped versions orchestrated by Marc Jacobs. His 2013 exit left tall boots to fill, but Nicholas Ghesquière—a daring designer who single-handedly resurrected the Balenciaga label—has done an admirable job. Melding his signature edgy modernism with vintage touches and colors, Ghesquière is taking the legendary luxe label to a glorious new level.

By turns bold and dainty, these exquisitely constructed vintage-inspired bags are some of the most original in Paris. A python-and-calf tote is demure in storm gray: in ice blue it's a statement. Day bags in myriad shapes and sizes are always stylish; for evening, ingenious faceted clutches come in a range of colors and skins, with a sexy signature version chained to a python wristband. Other leather accessories (like iPad cases and wallets) and whimsical Polaroid-print silk scarves are also available.

These colorful totes are the choice of royals, blue bloods, and the like (clients have included Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Gregory Peck, and the duke and duchess of Windsor). Parisians swear by their durability and longevity; they're large enough to transport a baguette and durable enough for a magnum of champagne. Dog owners won't want to miss the "Le Chic du Chien" boutique farther down at No. 352.

These are last season's models, but no one will guess; savings on these handbags are 30% to 60%.

Jérôme Dreyfuss has captivated Paris with his vibrant hand and shoulder bags that are available in an endless variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, all made with noble materials, including suedes, sparkling and subdued leathers, and the occasional faux-leopard. All are practical and impossibly chic. If you're already a fan, the boutique now has a vintage service in which they buy and sell certain older models.