KD Travels: A Guide to Paris

Paris is one of my favorite travel destinations: from the bustling markets to the dreamy cafes and charming gardens, there’s something new to discover on every visit. My most recent trip was no exception — Jim and I spent a long weekend in the City of Lights after Jim's work trip in London (which I also recommend visiting!). We ate, we wandered, we shopped — and I sourced some amazing pieces for the KD collection!

Below are my recommendations on where to stay, where to shop, and where to eat.

Where to stay

Jim and I love to stay at The Hoxton, centrally located in the 2nd arrondissement. It’s beautifully decorated, with a central bar and restaurant situated in a light-filled courtyard draped in greenery. I highly recommend sipping a cocktail in the courtyard after a long day of exploring  delicious drinks and great people watching. Our room was small but comfortable and well appointed.

The beautiful courtyard inside The Hoxton

If you're looking for a more quiet stay in a stunning setting, then book a room at the Saint James; a former private mansion re designed by Laura Gonzalez. Breathtaking interiors and delicious breakfasts.

Where to Shop

Samaritaine Paris

This incredible luxury shopping center (which was featured in Netflix’s Emily in Paris) is not to be missed! After a seven-year, $800 million renovation completed by LVMH, Le Samaritaine opened its glamorous doors in 2021. You can wander and window shop from Gucci to Sandro to my favorite French brand, Claudie Pierlot. I serendipitously timed my trip with the summer sales, so a number of new items came home with me! 

When you’re shopped out, make sure to take the escalator to the very top to take in the view!

Officine Universelle Buly 

For perfume lovers, Officine Univereselle Buly is a must! Test out all their unique scents in a stunning setting resembling a vintage apothecary. For an extra special souvenir, they can inscribe your perfume box!


Shopping here is like stepping back in time

The packaging for every product is a work of art

Vintage Stores

Paris has a wide range of vintage and secondhand shopping from kilo shops to luxury boutiques. No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to these special spots:

Thank God I’m a VIP

This beautifully curated vintage shop came highly recommended! Their men’s shop and their women’s are located side by side and each one is organized by color. Everything is lovingly curated and there’s a wonderful selection of high-quality vintage clothes, bags and accessories. I had fun browsing the unique designer pieces and can’t wait to come back! 

Jim could barely contain his excitement over this shop!

Dressing Factory

This tiny shop is filled to the brim with pristine, high-end designer clothes. Beautiful Chanel suits, vintage YSL dresses, and luxurious handbags await!

Bobby

Offering a nice selection of men's and women's vintage fashion and accessories. I found some amazing vintage designer jewelry here! 

Good Jo

A discerning vintage lover's dream; Good Joe features a dazzling selection of iconic and designer pieces. A must stop if you are looking for something special! Fun fact, many vintage looks were used from the shop for Emily in Paris!

Passage Jouffrey & Passage de Panoramas

Stroll through these stunning, sunlight-filled shopping passages while sipping a coffee or matcha latte from ARABICA. 

Note the neckerchief - someone was feeling very French

The passageways are lined with fun shops — arrive early to beat the crowds

Where to Eat

One of the highlights of Paris is sitting outside and enjoying drinks and late dinners at all the charming cafes. One of our favorite neighborhoods to enjoy a glass of bubbles, charcuterie. and people watching is the Saint-Germain neighborhood. Check out Cafe de Flore, one of the most and a favorite of Pablo Picasso! 

For amazing oysters and cocktails don’t miss ISTR 

Make sure to book a table at Magniv - do not miss the Yemini bread, octopus, or the Kasbah cocktail.

That bread was as good as it looks!

 For an amazing weekend brunch, go to Culottes; make sure to book ahead!

For a cozy and delish dinner, stop in La Daronne. The deconstructed lemon tart is to die for!

I’m already counting down the days until my return visit in the summer. I'll be sourcing for Kimono Dragon of course, but let me know what else I should add to my itinerary? Drop your favorite cafes, shops, markets, and coffee spots in the comments!