#SizeM 02 / A Google Maps of Fashion bookstores in Paris
#SizeM 02 / A Google Maps of Fashion bookstores in Paris
From Ofr. to Café Mirette, some of the best spots to find fashion magazines and essays.
FASHION BOOKSTORES IN PARIS
Finding inspiration beyond digital platforms takes a bit of time, a bit of money, and a bit of guidance. Personally, I buy a lot of books and magazines—everything from old niche fanzines to obscure, confidential essays.
One of my favorite activities is visiting bookstores in Paris, where I stumble upon magazines and books I’d never think to search for online.
Here’s a list of 10 places where I love to wander—and I’ve even included a Google Maps link for your own exploration.
01. Palais de Tokyo
Inside the museum, there’s a fantastic bookstore with a spacious layout and an amazing selection of classics, niche publications, and, of course, the usual suspects like ID Magazine and System.
02. Ofr. Paris
An obvious go-to in Paris. Launched in 2007 by sibling duo Alexandre and Marie Thumerelle, Ofr. is packed with hidden gems. During Paris Fashion Week, the small yet vibrant space is a magnet for fashion revellers.
It’s a charming spot that always finds a way to get money from me.
03. Café Mirette
Situated within Fondation Pernod Ricard, this bookstore (or librairie) shares the space with Café Mirette. You can enjoy a nice lunch while browsing a unique selection of books, including some extremely niche essays. The bookstore is quite literally what you see while dining at the café.
04. Saint Laurent Babylone
Very trendy and much talked about, this new bookstore/gallery is especially interesting when events take place. Curated by Anthony Vaccarello, it hosts Talks with influential thinkers and artists like Jacques Audiard. Definitely worth checking out if you’re nearby.
05. Studio 7L
Librairie 7L was founded by Karl Lagerfeld in 1999. It’s more than just a bookstore—it's a publishing house and subscription service. They even offer curated book selections for VIPs and VICs.
06. Smith & Son
Not just for English speakers! This bookstore has a great selection of fashion magazines tucked away in the back, plus a café upstairs for a cozy break.
07. Publicis Drugstore
Publicis may be a major advertising group, but back in 1958, they had the brilliant idea to open this “Drugstore.” It’s a great spot for lunch and to browse recent releases, fashion magazines, and more.
08. La Nouvelle Chambre Claire
One of my favorite spots in Paris. The eclectic selection ranges from travel journals to catalogues. I bought I Need to Live by Juergen Teller here—thank me later.
09. JUNKUNDO Paris
France and Japan share a deep connection, particularly in fashion and pop culture. If you want to find where Japanese expats in Paris buy their favorite books, mangas, and more, JUNKUNDO is the place to go.
10. Polka Factory
Polka Magazine is one of the most compelling publications and networks for photography in France. Their little shop is full of surprises, and you can even pick up signed copies.
11. EPHEMERA
Not to be forgotten, Ephemera is an insiders’ favorite (but is a temporary bookstore). Located in the 9th arrondissement, the project has been launched by Pascal Monfort, it is both an exhibition and a store, with really rare gems (ie: Six by Rei Kawakubo).
There are tons of hidden gems in Paris. Feel free to add your favorite places. And to comment, like, share OFC.
BRAND: LITERARY SPORT
Discothèque finds their inspirations in nightclubbing and disco scenes. An original idea to tap into a rich universe.
Try to be on the list.
QUOTE
“There's Balenciaga, and the good Lord” - Hubert de Givenchy
Fashion is around the corner.
October 2024.
Love this list! Palais de Tokyo 💛 Museums shops are always a good idea like the Centre Pompidou or Fondation LV shops. Not fashion focused but I love the Ici bookshop near Grands Boulevards and La Mouette Rieuse in the Marais, you can find hidden gems