Where better to celebrate the ever-intriguing world of fashion than in the city that gave us Dior, Chanel and YSL? There’s only one: Paris.
Attending Paris Fashion Week for the first time can be as overwhelming as it is intriguing. With shameless high-fashion dominating the streets, delicate, waif-like models at every turn and the occasional champagne brunch to attend, the world’s leading haute couture event is one to behold – and a guaranteed bucket list tick.
Widely regarded as the global fashion event, Semaine de la mode de Paris is held twice a year, in the spring/ summer and autumn/ winter seasons. During this whirlwind four-day event, designer presentations—from big names like Dior to smaller start-up labels—take place at venues across the city.
If you visit Paris during the Fashion Week in springtime or autumn, you’ll find the city’s most exclusive venues awash with photographers and A‑listers, pop-up shops on every corner and an enigmatic energy unlike any other. It’s Paris at its most electric.
If, like us, you won’t be receiving an invite to Chanel’s runway show anytime soon, here are a few tips on what to wear and where to go during Paris Fashion Week to help you make the most of your time in the capital during France’s foremost fashion extravaganza.
What to wear to Paris Fashion Week: How to look stylish in Paris
Whether you’re into black tie or tie-dye, there’s no outfit too weird or wonderful. If you’re lucky enough to get on a guest list, runway shows generally have no dress code, so stay comfortable.
Don’t forget, with hundreds of guests attending beneath heat-emitting lights, it gets hot quickly in most venues. Feel like peacocking amidst a crowded Champs-Élysées on an evening? Go for it. It’s Paris Fashion Week, after all.
Where to eat and drink: chic eateries in Paris
As we all know, the Parisian dining scene is as trendy as its clientele. If you’re looking to rub shoulders with fashionistas, models and actors, book a table at La Perle in the city’s Le Marais district or Brasserie Lipp for flawless French fare at the heart of Saint Germain.
To escape the hustle and bustle, Café Ruc is an understated brasserie popular with Parisians, while the Beef Bar is perfect for a steak.
Where to shop for Paris Fashion
When it comes to retail in Paris, we’re spoilt for choice. But during Fashion Week, things kick up a notch. With off-the-cuff pop-ups and shabby-chic events galore, Le Marais is perhaps the most interesting district to explore – away from the crowds of Tuileries and Avenue Montaigne.
Popular with younger members of the fashion pack, there are endless treasures to be discovered among its countless boutiques and independent stores. It’s also a high fashion haven.
Is Paris Fashion Week open to the public?
If you’re not already on the guest list, you’re going to find it hard to attend any big-brand runway shows. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. There are plenty of small, up-and-coming labels showcasing their latest and greatest in Paris.
For many of these, you’ll be able to buy tickets directly or attend trunk shows, where previews are offered to would-be customers at various venues. Keep your eyes and ears open and you’ll find the right event for you.
From big tourist attractions to nightlife hotspots, there’s plenty to see and do in the French capital. Check out our full guide to Paris to ensure you hit the right spots.
In town for only a short visit? Discover how to make the most out of your stay in Paris.