‘ART’ OF SHOPPING THE PARIS FLEA
August 2024
POST FOUR
P
aris has an iconic creative legacy, from music, to fashion, to food, the city has been a haven for lovers of the decorative arts for centuries.
I first fell in love with Paris during my college years. I spent countless afternoons exploring the Marché aux Puces - soaking in the atmosphere of culture, history and sophistication that surrounds Paris’s famous markets.
This is where my own love affair with the art of decor began.
On a student’s budget, I wasn’t there to buy - maybe the occasional vintage fabric or funky lamp. Still, it was in those hours I spent wandering Parisian markets that I found my taste for objects with provenance and soul.
Objects with a story.
I’m still haunting the stalls of the Flea, and the discoveries are truly endless.
I’ve put together a little guide; some tips and tricks, beloved vendors, and a thing or two I’ve learned over the years.
So, next time you’re in Paris, set aside a Friday morning for the flea. Whether you’re on the hunt for vintage treasures or that perfect decor piece - you’ll find the markets of Paris are like none other.
Saint-Ouen.
Just outside Paris, the Saint-Ouen Flea Market is one of the world's largest and oldest markets in the world. The Flea, or Les Puces, is known for a vast array of goods, from high-end to eclectic antiques and vintage items.
With twelve official markets and five streets of stalls, this sprawling market offers endless opportunity for exploration. Vendors range from those selling serious antiques, like Biron, to the funkier vibe of Vernaison and Malassis. The market blends professional vendors with specialized shops and charming alleyways. Truly the quintessential treasure-hunting environment.
Pro Tip * Tell your taxi driver take you to Rue Paul Bert at Les Puces - it’s the easiest place to be dropped off!
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Best of Flea
Paul Bert Serpette Market
Nestled in the heart of Les Puces are ten eclectic markets that surround Paul Bert Serpette. Wander through the various stalls at the Marché Vernaison and Marché Dauphine in the world's largest antiques center on the Rue des Rosiers. Incredible for stylish lamps and fixtures in particular - as well as textiles.
When to Go*
Open every weekend, Friday - Saturday
Friday : 8 am - 12 am
Saturday : 9 am - 6 pm
Sunday : 10 am - 6 pm
Monday : 11 am - 5 pm
96-110, rue des Rosiers - 93400 Saint-Ouen
Pro Tip* Go early Friday morning for the best finds - you’ll have first pick of anything vendors bought throughout the week.
“The chief danger about Paris is that it is such a strong stimulant.”
~ T.S. Elliot
Caprices Sérard Mizel At Paul Bert Serpette
Vendor Gérard Mizel feels like my personal treasure trove. They offer an unparalleled selection of high-quality antiques and vintage items. I've discovered rare furniture pieces, exquisite decorative objects, and unique art for my clients. I come here when I know I need something special - like these incredible lacquered consoles with sculptural glass rondelles. Their luminosity is the perfect compliment to the yellow Kagan sofa in my recent project.
Marché Serpette
Alley 1 & 3 Stand 41 & 21
Market Tips.
