At this point, we’re predisposed to love everything about French girls, and it’s probably safe to assume you’re in the same boat (you did open this story, after all). Whether you appreciate Parisiennes for their effortless, off-duty style or their penchant for slow fashion, there is much to be admired about their sartorial approach. To find out what they’re actually purchasing for the season, we tapped luxury consignment destination Vestiaire Collective, which has access to a wealth of shopping data about its stylish customers. Here, co-founder Sophie Hersan shares the company’s findings about French women’s current spending habits.
What French Women Are Buying
In-Demand US Brands
"On Vestiaire Collective, US brands like Proenza Schouler and Madewell are well-loved by Parisian women, while limited-edition sportswear from brands such as Adidas and Nike are in high demand. Timeless brands like Manolo Blahnik sell rapidly when supplied from the US, and we expect to see an increase in purchases of Calvin Klein with the recent appointment of Raf Simons."
In-Demand European Brands
"We see Parisian women purchasing classic French brands such as Christian Louboutin, Yves Saint Laurent and even Roger Vivier from the closets of American women. They're looking for items that weren't produced for the French market. Of course, Parisians are consistently buying accessories from European brands such as Prada, Céline, Valentino and vintage Chanel."
What French Women Are Buying From One Another
"French women are buying from other French women pieces from the most desirable designers from past years, such as Nicolas Ghesquière, Phoebe Philo and Hedi Slimane. In some cases, we see them buying pieces from previous collections as far back as the early 2000s. For instance, a piece from the early years of Ghesquière at Balenciaga or a men's shirt designed by Slimane for Dior Homme back in 2000. They're also buying unique vintage items from one another like a 1970's iconic Yves Saint Laurent smoking jacket or Cartier Tank watch. Isabel Marant and Louis Vuitton are the two most popular brands bought and sold by French women on Vestiaire Collective."
Popular Item: Gucci Boston Bag
Popular Item: Hermès Silk Scarf
Popular Item: Saint Laurent Sac De Jour
Popular Item: Goyard Saint-Louis Tote
Popular Item: Vintage Cartier Tank Watch
