Alright so last Tuesday I finally got around to scoping out all the Polo Ralph Lauren spots in Paris. Woke up stupid early thinking “Hey, less crowds right?” Big mistake. Parisians don’t shop early apparently. Grabbed a seriously strong espresso near my hotel – needed that fuel.
Started on Champs-Élysées
First stop: the big flagship on Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Massive place, like three floors of that preppy goodness. Walked in feeling a bit intimidated honestly. Super polished staff, mannequins dressed to the nines. Wandered through the mens section first – rows and rows of Oxford shirts, classic sweaters, those horse polo logos everywhere. Felt the fabric on a cable knit sweater. Softer than I expected. Noticed the price tags here felt… higher. Like airport boutique prices? Made a mental note: flagship tax is real.
Stumbled into Saint-Germain
Hopped on the Metro Line 1 towards St-Germain-des-Prés afterwards. Smaller boutique vibe here on Boulevard Saint-Germain. Less show-offy. Completely different energy. Staff actually smiled and asked what I was hunting for instead of just watching me. Found the women’s section way better organized here. Saw a cute linen dress and actually tried it on. Fitting room was tiny though – elbows definitely hit the walls. Pros? Found some nice sale racks tucked near the back. Cons? Changing rooms feel like phone booths.
The Surprise: Left Bank Outlet
Almost missed this one. Friend texted me about a “stock” location near Luxembourg Gardens. Took the RER B feeling skeptical. Place looks unassuming outside. Inside? Total treasure hunt. Racks jam-packed, some items looked like they’d seen better days. Dug like a maniac. Found last season’s rugby shirts for almost 50% off! Grabbed two. Be warned – sizes are super scattered. You gotta really dig. Packaging? Nah, got my stuff in a plain plastic bag. But for the price? Zero complaints.
What Actually Worked
- Afternoons are Gold: Seriously, go after lunch. Staff aren’t rushing, inventory gets replenished. Mornings? Ghost town.
- Flagship = Experience, Saint-Germain = Chill: Want the full glam? Champs-Élysées. Actual shopping? Head to St-Germain.
- Outlet Requires Grit: Patience needed. Lots of flawed or older items. Don’t go tired or hangry.
- Check Tags: Saw exact same Oxford shirt priced different at Champs vs St-Germain. No joke.
- Comfy Shoes Essential: So much walking and metro stairs. Blisters ain’t stylish.
Ended the day lugging bags onto the RER, feet killing me, but wallet mostly intact. Lesson learned? Paris Polo shops ain’t all the same. Each feels like a totally different animal. Pick your beast wisely.