Ok, just a couple more posts on France.  I wanted to share some of our favorite places to check out in Paris specifically. To be honest, we did more window-shopping than purchasing.  The exchange rate is just so terrible for the dollar right now, and things that formerly were found to be inexpensive in Europe versus the States (such as European brands), were actually cheaper here in the US.

Despite falling madly in love with everything at the flea markets, I didn’t come away with anything more than this delightful little children’s book. The illustrations were so beautifully designed and printed. The saturation of the ink is stunning. I thought it would be cute for the baby’s room if it’s a girl.

Another favorite French brand is Les Toiles du Soleil, a gorgeous line of heavy fabrics in a variety of colorful stripes. I had the hardest time picking out what to buy because I honestly love every single fabric they offer.  I wish I’d taken a few photos in the shop; they had the most magnificent drum light shades you’ve ever seen in your life.

{Image above from their site here}

{via Camille Styles}

I came away with a couple of remnant rolls of fabric that I might use for pillows or table runners as well as one of their little trays.  You’d think I was having to make the hardest decision of my life the way I pored over which pattern to buy.

Their New York store has a site complete with online shopping. I’m dying over the iPad cases.  ::swoon::

Another new favorite was concept/department store Merci. I’d seen it written up at StephModo’s blog and others, and I was really glad we made the trip to the 3rd arrondissement to check it out. Complete with the most darling little cafe, it’s 3 floors full of marvelous housewares, jewelry, furniture, clothing, and more. There’s a variety of price points. I came away with a couple of cute blank journals. Don’t miss the entrance into Merci — it’s hidden away in a courtyard, but you won’t miss their cute little red car in the center.

Finally, my alltime favorite kids’ shop was the new-to-me Bonton. I nearly died and went to baby/kids clothes heaven. The price point was ridiculously out of my budget, but wow — sheer perfection. Simon and I noticed several times all the cute little kids in France. Most were perfectly dressed in the chicest little outfits in soft, subtle colors. No animal appliques or weird slogans. The clothes were all something that I would have wanted to wear — kinda like J.Crew’s Crewcuts.