Right in the heart of Paris is a partially underground multiple storey shopping center called Châtelet-Les Halles. While some French people are not particularly keen on this 1970′s construction, the area is very popular as some excellent shopping can be had and even on Sunday, many of the shops are open when the rest of Paris is closed. Châtelet-Les Halles area is also a good place to dine or party as there are some fine restaurants and nightclubs.

Unless shopping malls really attract you, it is best to avoid the Forum des Halles and to focus on the small boutiques in the local neighbourhood. For example there is some pretty stylish clothing and accessories to be found in Agnès b. on the Rue du Jour, in Et Vous Outlet at 17 Rue de Turbigo, and also in Scooter which is in Rue de Turbigo, 10.

If you venture down Rue Etienne-Marcel there are many great shops that will definitely catch your eye, such as Diesel, Barbara Bui, and Kabuki. If you like to try on vintage clothing then take a stroll down the Rue de la Grande-Traunderie and be amazed by the collection of great clothes within Iglaïne.

Once you’ve had enough of shopping for clothes then it is always a treat to visit Mora at 13 Rue Montmartre where you will find an excellent choice of kitchen supplies including copper pots.

If you feel compelled to at least take a look at Forum des Halles then go to level one where there are a number of shops that specialise in hand-sewn clothing produced by up-and-coming young designers.

Photo Credit: moonsoleil | Since 2006 Holiday Velvet offers Paris accommodation.