Introducing FYIParis

I have been obsessed with Paris since I was a young teen in the 80s (hello GenXers!), and my grandmother nurtured that passion along with my budding interest in fashion, shopping, and looking like all of the women I saw in the glossy pages of magazines.

My grandmother and I had a special relationship. We would have regular brunch dates on Sundays at a department store restaurant, back when mall culture was at its height, and watch the mini-fashion shows that highlighted all the new trends. Shopping every weekend, people watching over an ice cream cone, and bonding with my grandmother were formative experiences that I remember fondly.

The 80s were a popular time for “the” Chanel bag – Lagerfeld reintroduced the classic flap during that time for the House, and it was everywhere. I fell in love at first sight. The quilted leather, the chain strap, and most importantly, the elegant women who wore those coveted bags. Of course, I had very little knowledge or words to express my fascination – it was an instinctual love that I would carry with me over the decades. My grandmother bought me a knockoff, and I wore it with pride and confidence. Imagining that I was a Parisienne, living in Paris, carrying that bag.

I vowed that, one day, I would have the real thing.

Then I found myself about to turn 50…

Those dreams, my obsession with Paris, the desire for “the” bag…

It was time. So, I decided to celebrate my 50th birthday by treating myself to a long-overdue trip to Paris. Going solo was not the original plan. I asked one of my good friends if she’d like to join me, but after a lot of back and forth, some negotiations, and a bit of cajoling, she eventually said no. Apparently, she’s not a good traveler.

Ok, Plan B. By myself? I’m very good at entertaining myself, I like my own company, I’m a perfectly happy introvert… But solo travel is not something that women of my generation automatically consider. Unlike younger generations, we didn’t grow up thinking that traveling on our own was an ideal option. Could I really do this? To another country where I didn’t speak the language? I’m fairly fearless in other aspects of my life. Why not here? Sure. Let’s go.

That’s how I initially found myself in Paris, on my own, with just those teenaged dreams and desires as companions. And memories of my grandmother.

What I didn’t expect was that I would actually find myself in Paris. A sense of self I didn’t know, an earned confidence in who I’d become, and true appreciation for the ability to rely on myself.

I also learned that I was a skilled shopper. Indeed, shopping in Paris can be overwhelming to the average Américaine. While some aspects are similar, the differences take a bit of guidance and a good game plan. My goal was to shop and eat my way through Paris. And I did for eight fabulous days. From high-end boutiques, to mid-level shops, to thrift and second-hand stores, to the famous flea market. All in distinct neighborhoods that I walked (and walked!), and ate, and shopped. I came away from that trip realizing that American women in Paris might need a guided shopping tour especially created for them on how to navigate the Parisian shopping landscape. Or, at the very least, some good tips and a curated list of “must see” places.

That’s what I’d like to share with you here. My skills, some inspiration, and a little encouragement to go find yourself in Paris!

Did I get “the” bag? No, not yet. But, that’s a story for another blog… :)

Au revoir until next time,

-Valerie's Granddaughter