Paris, the undisputed fashion capital of the world, is a haven for vintage enthusiasts. Its charming vintage boutiques, bustling second-hand shops, and sprawling flea markets are brimming with timeless treasures that capture the city’s rich sartorial history. Whether you’re seeking a pre-loved Chanel bag, a 1970s smoking jacket, or a second-hand Sandro dress, you’ll find a treasure trove of stylish pieces to elevate your wardrobe.
Where to Hunt for Vintage Gems in Paris
Paris boasts an array of vintage hotspots scattered across its charming arrondissements. However, some areas are renowned for their concentration of second-hand fashion.
The Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, located in the north of Paris, is a must-visit for any vintage aficionado. This immense antique market, the largest in the world, attracts more visitors annually than the iconic Eiffel Tower. This sprawling marketplace, covering an area equivalent to a small postal code, offers an eclectic mix of cheap finds and genuine antiques.
For the best browsing experience, plan your visit from Friday to Monday, and let Mei Mei Vintage (more details below) be your guide to this exciting vintage wonderland.
The Marais district and the 10th arrondissement are also hotbeds for vintage shopping, with numerous boutiques and consignment stores showcasing more contemporary collections. Meanwhile, the vintage shops around Palais-Royal offer a carefully curated selection of high-end designer vintage.
After a day of vintage treasure hunting, indulge in a refreshing drink at one of Paris’s best bars or savor a delicious meal at one of the city’s highly recommended restaurants.
The Best Vintage Shops in Paris
Here’s a curated list of the best vintage shops in Paris – a blend of luxury and affordable finds for every vintage enthusiast:
Bobby: Designer Delights in a Chic Setting
Best for: An elegant consignment boutique, brimming with designer finds.
Address: 89 Rue Réaumur, 75002 Paris
Forget cramped racks and cluttered clothing piles. At Bobby, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of designer clothing organized by category. Expect a steady stream of new arrivals, including Saint Laurent sunglasses, Balenciaga bags, Chanel cashmere, and Prada pumps (with a strict no high-street policy).
Bobby also offers a consignment service, where you can sell your designer items. These items are held in-store for up to two months before being returned to the seller. The seller receives 50% of the sale price (excluding tax). There’s also a second Bobby location at 168 Rue du Temple, 75003.
Mon Vintage: A Haven for Rare Designer Finds
Best for: Second-hand designer fashion in an exclusive private showroom.
Address: Appointment-only showroom in Saint Germain (email for details).
Marie Blanchet, a vintage dealer and former head of vintage for Vestiaire Collective, is the mastermind behind Mon Vintage. This exclusive, appointment-only showroom in Saint Germain boasts an impressive collection of rare vintage pieces from John Galliano, Courrèges, Chloé, Alaïa, and Hermès. Blanchet’s impressive client list includes Amal Clooney, Rihanna, and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, with whom she has also collaborated.
To secure an appointment, email ahead of time to receive a lookbook and address details. While there’s no pressure to buy, the intimate, salon-like atmosphere (set within Blanchet’s own apartment) caters to serious vintage shoppers seeking rare designer treasures.
Chercheminippes: Contemporary and Vintage Chic
Best for: A blend of contemporary and designer vintage fashion in a lively retail district.
Address: 102 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris
Nestled in the fashionable Saint Germain district, on the corner of Rue Saint Romain, Chercheminippes is both a contemporary clothing shop and a consignment store. You’ll find a unique mix of designer pieces, such as Isabel Marant and Chanel, alongside contemporary French labels donated and consigned by local residents. The shop also features a delectable selection of vintage designer shoes.
Just next door, on the Rue du Cherche-Midi side, you’ll discover a delightful selection of homewares, including crockery, glassware, linens, and home decor. The Smallable concept store is also just a few doors down, offering an eclectic mix of stylish goods.
Rose Market: A Time Capsule of the 70s and 90s
Best for: Fashion treasures from the 1970s to the 1990s.
Address: 19 Rue Milton, 75009 Paris
Rose Market, a vintage boutique on Rue Milton, is a stone’s throw from the ever-popular Mamiche bakery. Owner Florence Haddad meticulously selects pre-loved pieces, with a special focus on the 1970s and 1990s. You’ll find designer labels like Saint Laurent, Courrèges, and vintage Celine, alongside an equally impressive selection of unmarked vintage.
Don’t forget to check the opening hours before you visit, as Rose Market is only open in the afternoon, from Tuesday to Saturday.
Thanx God I’m A VIP: Avant-Garde Fashion Fusion
Best for: A mix of contemporary second-hand clothing and designer vintage.
Address: 12 Rue de Lancry, 75010 Paris
Just steps from Place de la République (and close to Gare du Nord), Thanx God I’m A VIP is known for its avant-garde fashion curation. The shop’s playful moniker comes from owner Sylvie Chateigner’s past as a nightclub doorwoman during the 1990s.
Chateigner’s expert eye has created a dynamic mix of vintage designer pieces and rare streetwear finds at affordable prices. The color-coded racks make browsing a breeze, and you might even spot a celebrity trying on items in the fitting rooms, as Emily Ratajkowski did on a previous visit.
Vintage Shop de Chloé: Designer Accessories with a Story
Best for: Designer vintage accessories from the 1950s to the 1970s.
Address: 86 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris
Just a short walk from Paris’s chic Michelin-star restaurant Septime, you’ll find Vintage Shop de Chloé. Chloé, the shop’s eponymous founder, has a lifelong passion for vintage and opened her own store in 2023.
Her carefully curated collection features unique pieces like a vintage Céline dark chocolate brown, frosted leather satchel with a ship’s wheel clasp lock or a Jean Paul Gaultier sailor top, alongside statement unmarked pieces. Chloé ensures all items are in mint condition and knows the backstory of each piece, making your shopping experience even more special.
Mei Mei Vintage: Affordable Vintage Finds in a Flea Market Haven
Best for: A thrift store in the heart of the world’s biggest flea market.
Address: 129 Rue des Rosiers, [Marché Vernaison, Allée 7, 122 bis 93070 Saint Ouen (Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen)]
Mei Mei Vintage is a vintage store founded by Mae Lapres, a former model who was a favorite during the Alessandro Michele Gucci era. It is located in the sprawling Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, reachable by the Porte de Clignancourt metro.
Lapres has carefully curated a collection of affordable second-hand pieces spanning decades, handpicked by her. There’s also a studio space above the shop, where Lapres creates wacky, one-off pieces perfect for fashion editorials. Mei’s store is the perfect starting point for exploring the treasure trove of antique shops in the area.
Guerrisol: Budget-Friendly Fashion for Every Style
Best for: Thrifting and affordable second-hand clothing.
Address: Various locations across Paris, including Saint Denis and Le Marais.
With new arrivals every day, the Guerrisol shops are constantly overflowing with clothing, shoes, and accessories for women, men, and children. They have multiple locations across Paris, including Saint Denis and Le Marais.
This is an ideal spot for fashion-forward shoppers on a budget and anyone seeking unique or eclectic pieces. Be prepared to rummage, but you’ll be rewarded with one-of-a-kind finds at fantastic prices.
Conclusion
Paris, with its vibrant vintage scene, offers something for every vintage enthusiast. From high-end designer boutiques to affordable thrift stores, the city is a treasure trove of stylish and unique pieces. Whether you’re searching for a classic Chanel bag, a quirky 70s smoking jacket, or a rare streetwear find, you’re sure to find your perfect vintage match in Paris.
