Immerse yourself in art de vivre à la française, with these fashion icons that marry tradition and modernity
Dior, 30 avenue Montaigne
The setting: Mythical. It was chosen in 1946 by the grand couturier, who wanted to transform this townhouse into the showcase and lair for his elegant creations. The atmosphere, that of a chic 1930s boudoir, is both resolutely cosy, making guests feel at home, and modern enough to keep up with the times.Take a sensorial stroll through Dior's different worlds, from beauty care, leather goods, jewellery and fashion. The ultimate: The legendary staircase that leads to the haute-couture area, in pink and grey, Christian Dior's favourite colours.
Chanel, 31 rue Cambon
The setting: Avant-garde! As of 1921, Gabrielle Chanel set herself up here with her hat collection, with her jewellery, bags and her first perfume, the iconic N°5. The legend of this four-storey concept-store is perpetuated by Karl Lagerfeld. The atmosphere in which to choose your 2.55 handbag is velvety, somewhere between classicism and contemporary art. The ultimate: A private visit of Mademoiselle Chanel's second-storey flat gives an insight into the famous camellia designer's universe, with baroque pieces, mirrors and other personal treasures.
Hermès, 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
The setting: The display windows of this boutique, which is home to the famous leather craftsman's headquarters, are inspired by the elegance of travelling. The atmosphere breathes tradition and modernity. The glass staircase is in perfect contrast with the small retro counters, each reflecting their own inviting warmth. The ultimate: Going home with a silk scarf designed by a renowned artist, like Daniel Buren or Josef Albers.
Hermès, 17 rue de Sèvres
The setting: This new-generation ephemeral boutique is full of surprises! The atmosphere, romantic, is blooming with fresh flowers, and contemporary creations share the space with Hermès classics re-created by big names in design. The ultimate: Take a cultural breather at the Actes Sud bookstore, followed by a gourmand brunch at Le Plongeoir tearoom.
Guerlain, 68 avenue des Champs-Elysées
The setting: Heir to the perfumers of the King's Court of France, Guerlain cultivates the art of French living. The atmosphere, metamorphosed in 2013 by the famous American architect Peter Marino, is fascinating, a magnificent combination of inlaid marble, art and design to keep guests on their toes. The ultimate: Lunch at number 68, where the flowered tables flawlessly enhance the creations of Michelin-starred chef, Guy Martin.
Louis Vuitton, 101 avenue des Champs-Elysées
The setting: This French leather goods icon reveals its largest boutique in the world, built in a smooth spiral shape, allowing guests to admire the century-old travel cases, soft luggage and other Marc Jacobs signature pieces. The atmosphere is Parisian Art Deco, punctuated by transparent mesh panels boasting the famous monogram. The ultimate: The breath-taking view of Paris rooftops from the top floor, which houses a cultural space dedicated to travelling and the art of fashion.
Baccarat, 11 place des Etats-Unis
The setting: In 2003, the former mansion of Marie-Laure de Noailles was reinvented by Baccarat into a venue entirely dedicated to the magic of crystal. The atmosphere is pure refinement, the space designed by Philippe Starck, who played with a contrast of crystal and concrete. The ultimate: Vary the pleasures, from the boutique to the museum, stopping by the splendid Cristal Room restaurant, run by Michelin-starred chef, Guy Martin.
Fragonard, 9 rue Scribe
The setting: This Napoleon-style building facing the Garnier Opera houses the boutique and museum dedicated to the Provencal perfumer. The atmosphere is velvety, with lots of wood, high ceilings and large fireplaces. Through its elaborate collection, discover some 3,000 years of perfume history. The ultimate: Make your own perfume during a creation workshop, a truly unique sensual experience.