01.21.07
Outlet shopping à la française
The outlet mall craze has made it to France, for better or worse. I discovered this yesterday when, after a productive week, a friend and I decided to take advantage of les soldes (the sales that are only held twice a year). After a crowded metro ride on the line 13, to the Mairie de Saint Ouen stop, and then a short walk to the Ile St. Denis, we arrived at Marques Avenue. It was extremely busy, but we found some surprisingly good deals. I bought a dress at Chattawak for under 40 euros, and picked up a cotton sweater at Mango for 8. This is the place to go for French linens as well. We’ll definitely be stocking up on Deschamps towels and sheets before leaving Paris. One major drawback is the availability of food options: there is only one café there, offering a few sandwiches and very little seating. Pack a lunch and wear your walking shoes!