I have always been a scarf person. I grew up with a Mom who taught me that scarves are like jewelry– they can be just as expensive, instantly elevate any outfit, and no matter how much you weigh, they always fit. Plus they make a fashion statement and are not just used for cold weather bundling. Genius advice if you ask me. Thanks, Mom!
So on my recent melt the credit card trip to Paris, scarves were big on my must buy list, along with everything else not nailed down that made my heart skip a beat! (Oy) I did much more admiring than I did purchasing of course. Paris is truly a visual feast but some of the prices made my eyes water. Especially these limited edition beaded scarves from Hermès! They were so gorgeous in person but the sticker shock was about five times what a normal Hermès scarf would be. The craftsmanship was extraordinary but they stayed in the store obviously as I am still working for a living and not independently wealthy.
After trying on a variety of colors and patterns downstairs at the stunning newish Left Bank store, I did manage to scoop up a cashmere and silk shawl with hand rolled edges in a fun color palette. I loved this tomato red, gray, and blue number with the regal horse in the middle and I can’t wait to wear it.
And on the Right Bank OG store I found a shawl with a cream background that had splashes of vibrant blue, red, brown, and yellow with lots of orange stars. And I’ve already styled this guy over a white sweater for a conference dinner and it just pops!
Next up was a brand I discovered at a small Hamptons chain store called Henry Lehr where they had a variety of La Prestic Ouiston scarves, shirts and pants. I fell in love instantly with the bold mix of prints and silky textures.
Of course LPO has its own stand alone store in Paris with lots of goodies, but I drooled over the selection at Le Bon Marché where I snapped up a large triangle scarf and matching silk scrunchie. And the prices in France are soooo much more gentle than Long Island. Still not a bargain but if you’re buying it anyway, it’s cheaper in Paris. Yesssss.
Another favorite French store of mine with shops all over the city is Kujten— a brand that specializes in casual luxury cashmere for both men and women. I can’t walk by one of their shops without going in!
They are known for their bandana patterned small scarves that come in every color of the rainbow but on this trip I was crushing on a huge shawl in black and white. It was a limited edition collab with Dr. Woo and the size is perfect for travel. Woohoo! I also wanted the pink and red small flower number, but after all the damage I did, I’m saving that one for next year.
Scarves are abundant at the great designer outlet mall located 45 minutes west of Paris called La Vallée Village. It’s a total nightmare– it’s easy to get to, has great brands like Prada, Balmain, Moncler, Fendi, Chloé, and Saint Laurent, and a great restaurant on site. See? Nightmare! The place is literally begging to take all of my money one fabulous purchase at a time. The sales associates could not be more helpful and the grounds are impeccable.
The Gucci outlet in particular boasts an expansive collection with remarkably deep discounts. This year I scored big with a lightweight linen scarf in bright orange with lots of ornate elements. I love the weight of the fabric and will be showing it off come spring.
A store I thought I knew but didn’t is Hartford. Maybe because it’s a common name? It’s a Paris-based brand with both men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. I picked up this animal patterned showstopper that I’ve already worn twice. I love the print and the cheetah, leopard, zebra thing is so on trend right now. The gray tone of this scarf oozes luxury in light wool. It’s so versatile that it pairs well with navy, brown, gray and black. I’m a huge fan.
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