Paris, the city of love, fashion, and style has always been famous for its exquisite shopping experience. The city is home to some of the oldest and most iconic department stores in the world. In this article, we’ll be discussing the oldest department store in Paris.
The Oldest Department Store in Paris
The oldest department store in Paris is Le Bon Marché. It was founded in 1838 by Aristide Boucicaut and his wife Marguerite. Le Bon Marché is located in the heart of Paris on Rue de Sèvres, on the left bank of the Seine River.
The History of Le Bon Marché
Le Bon Marché started as a small shop that sold lace, ribbons, and other small items. However, Aristide Boucicaut had a vision to create a larger store that would offer a range of products under one roof. He introduced many innovations such as fixed prices, refunds, and advertising campaigns to attract customers.
In 1852, Boucicaut expanded his store by buying the neighboring buildings which allowed him to create an even larger store with a wider range of products. By 1869, Le Bon Marché had become one of the largest and most popular department stores in Paris.
What Makes Le Bon Marché Special?
Le Bon Marché is special because it has maintained its original architecture and design throughout its history. The building features a beautiful glass dome which allows natural light to flood into the store creating an airy and open atmosphere.
Another unique feature of Le Bon Marché is its dedication to promoting new designers and artists. It has always been known for showcasing emerging talent alongside established luxury brands.
The Shopping Experience at Le Bon Marché
Le Bon Marché offers a wide range of products including fashion items for men, women, and children, home decor, cosmetics, and gourmet food. It also has a dedicated section for luxury brands such as Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton.
The store is divided into different sections making it easy to navigate. There are also several cafes and restaurants within the store where shoppers can take a break and enjoy some delicious French cuisine.
Conclusion
Le Bon Marché is not only the oldest department store in Paris but also one of the most iconic. Its dedication to promoting new talent, maintaining its original architecture, and offering a wide range of products makes it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Paris.