May-Britt’s Paris Fashion Tour

It seems that driving yourself to Paris and ignoring the Thalys was incredibly ‘en vogue’ this year. So if you are lucky enough to be driving a Renault Twingo sponsored by Holland’s Next Top Model (thus fashion) that is tagged with the hashtag #EverywhereTwingo (thus usable for city trips), which is handy enough for transporting Billy-cupboards from Ikea (thus good for bringing souvenirs back), then a trip to Paris is surely on the cards.

The last time I drove to Paris in a car is a long time ago. I had just gotten my license, and funnily enough a Renault 5 to drive in, and had freedom blowing in my hair. I think I drove to Paris like a hundred times. Twice per year to see fashion shows, at least once per year for a shot of romance, then for several press trips and launches (like for Lieke and Jetteke van Lexmond, which was unforgettable) per year and in my Marie Claire time period, I went every month for a meeting. I dare say that I know the way.

Hence the reason that Twingo and I are taking you on a fashion tour. During Fashion Week (last week of September, beginning of October and the last week of February and beginning of March) Paris becomes a village. You are guaranteed of seeing Kim, Kanye, Carine, Anna, Mario, Grace and several top models if you follow my list below. Buckle up, here we go.

Le Bon Marché, the best department store in Paris. The walk there is perfect if you stay, like me, in the Saint Germain area. You will pass Gap (always good for children’s wear and basics) and a wonderful Paul&Joe store. Don’t ignore the Bon Marché supermarket either. The pasta is like art, so beautiful. You can keep Paris alive in your own home afterwards.

Café de Flore, real Parisiennes are not found at Les Deux Magots, mais non. They can be seen sitting at Flore. Smokers should sit on the terrace or otherwise sit inside. Do not sit in the conservatory, no matter how nice it is, everything screams tourist if you do and we don’t want that do we?

Ladurée has recently been spotted in all the American tour guides and since then been frequented by types wearing jeans with high waists and shades that can be flipped up, not quite as chic as before but it is still the best and most beautiful.

Café Ruc, especially after the Louis Vuitton show (always held on the last day of fashion week on the cours carré of the Louvre) and always with a parade of models.

Le Meurice, where during fashion week all editors-in-chief of all Marie Claire countries get together for a Monday afternoon meeting. Tea is served in porcelain cups and saucers, a scone or two are enjoyed or perhaps a piece of cake. If you look to your left, you may spot Kanye sitting there. Or Alber Elbaz walking in. I think it is the loveliest hotel in Paris and have slept there once or twice. What a party. If you feel like intensely spoiling yourself, go and have your hair done in Christophe Robin’s salon.

Grand Palais, where regular and gorgeous exhibitions are held, and which is transformed into a Chanel palace four times per year to show their prêt-à-porter and couture collections. Absolute highlights.

By the way, did you know:

• that parking is free in August and on public holidays?
• that the Renault Twingo was smothered in compliments by the proud French? “C’est sympa, ca!” “C’est toute nouveau?” even Carine Roitfeld complimented me with a “C’est chique”.
• that the Twingo has a tiny turning circle, and that I could easily park it at The Flore and at le Bon Marché.

So what are you waiting for? Go and start your engines!