There is perhaps no better place on earth to indulge oneself in the world’s fashion industry than in Paris. Always on the cutting edge, whether it be haute couture or bohemian trends, Paris offers the very best in clothing, accessories and all around style, from high-end fashion shows to used clothing stores. Many of the city’s upscale department stores (and the commercial brand-name shops) are located along the famed Avenue des Champs-Elysees. The avenue and surrounding district is home to many of the city’s sophisticated fashion gurus, including Yves Saint Laurent, Guy Laroche, Nina Ricci, Givenchy, Christian Dior, Hermés and Chanel.

But if you want to score that one-of-kind French item, you must explore the city. The Left Bank has long been the center of the city’s art culture, and thus some of the most distinctive garments in the world can be found hidden in alleyways and markets and such. Visitors can also tour many of the fashion houses in this area, as well as attend numerous fashion shows all over the city. Be advised, however, that fashion and shopping in Paris is not to be taken lightly, so treat it as if it were a night on the town, with a somewhat sophisticated demeanor and appropriate dress – you’ll be glad you did. From malls and department stores like the Forum des Halles and the Galeries Lafayette, to designer shops like Christian Dior and Hermes, to discount shopping at places like Anna Lowe and Parfums Caron, Paris has it all, and plenty of it.