Now that New York and London have set the pace, fashion’s inner circle is slipping into their sharpest heels and jetting off to Milan and Paris. With back-to-back shows, endless fittings, and late-night soirées, fashion month veterans know that the real indulgence isn’t just in the collections—it’s in the retail therapy that follows, or perhaps coincides. After all, there's always one or two last-minute outfits that come together with a last-minute purchase.
So while we’ve already packed for the travel, the real question is: What will we bring home? CULTURED tapped a lineup of industry insiders and tastemakers to get their go-to, under-the-radar spots for the ultimate shopping spree.
Eugénie Trochu, journalist
"Beige Habilleur at 86 rue Bonaparte in Paris. No fast fashion, no disposable trends—just seriously well-made clothes that get better with time. Since 2015, Basile Khadiry and Jean-Baptiste Ménétrier have been curating a wardrobe built to last: Coherence coats, Doek sneakers, bulletproof Camber sweatshirts, perfectly cut Gitman Vintage shirts, and the legendary Teba Jacket straight from Spain. Think workwear meets Japanese precision, with a touch of military cool.
And if you’re looking for a serious eyewear flex, this is also one of the rare Parisian spots to score Jacques Marie Mage frames. More collector’s item than accessory, these glasses are all about Bob Dylan, Steve McQueen, ’50s rockabilly swagger—made in ultra-limited runs, with thick acetate, intricate hinges, and museum-worthy finishes.
Whether you’re upgrading your guy (enough with the sad, stretched-out tees) or stealing from his closet, you’ll find everything you need here: the perfect shirt, an oversized sweatshirt, or a jacket that just gets you. No fluff, no hype—just the real deal."
Hunter Abrams, photographer
"Maison Du Pastel in the Marais! They are only open on Thursdays, but I try to go everytime I’m in Paris as just seeing the colors they create is so inspiring. Sometimes I like to draw to relax, so I always pick up a box of 12 or so Petits Roché."
Araminta Mellon, stylist
"Charly la Passion des Montres in Paris's 9th arrondissement [or] Les Merveilles de Babellou in Saint-Ouen."
Riccardo Maria, stylist and art director
"Vincent Vintage Bijoux in Milan—an amazing vintage jewelry and object shop in Porta Venezia."
Blanca Miró Scrimieri, fashion entrepreneur
"The must-visit shop in Paris for me right now is MARIN MONTAGUT."
Johannes Huebl, model and photographer
"In Milan, the one shop you need to visit is Antonia at the Potrait Hotel Milano. They have all the contemporary hits and a grand sneaker collection. In Paris, we love going to Galerie Hervé van der Straeten. It's one-of-a-kind and shows beautiful furniture, decorative objects, and jewelry designs."
Blanca Soler, model and artist
"NUOVO at 130 rue de Turenne in Paris."
Daniel Zepeda, fashion editor
"I know Charvet is well-known, but have you had the chance to try their socks and slippers? I can't help but feel like I'm completely addicted to them! They're just incredible. And I always find the best vinyl at Milan's All Time Tones Records. Can't leave that store empty-handed."
Ethan James Green, photographer
"I always try to stop by Dary’s when I’m in Paris. They have the most beautiful antique jewelry, and I love the purple velvet in the store windows."
Steff Yotka, global editorial director at i-D
"In Milan, I love Sous Vintage and Cavalli e Nastri—truly the best assortments of interesting vintage from Gucci, Krizia, Cavalli, and other true vintage pieces. In Paris, I wish I had more time to shop! It’s not under the radar, but I always visit Dover Street Market Paris, and then try to cram in a visit to Gaijin, Citizen, Nice Piece, and other vintage stores. I also always pop into Deyrolle and buy a butterfly or beetle."
Elena Mottola, stylist
PARIS
- Nuovo––best vintage store, best selection, best vibe; I always stay there, and Lisa, the owner, is my best friend. She'll give me the best advice every time I’m lost with my style.
- Le Bon Marché for close food and furniture. It is the best place to spend a Sunday afternoon chilling around beautiful and yummy things.
- Galerie Paradis––so good for vintage furniture. I bought my first design piece there, the place is so big, always new stuff, so so good
- Les Puces de Saint Ouen. You cannot come to Paris and not go to les Puces, it’s so iconic. My little secret place is this fantastic library of old books that I absolutely love there: Librairie de l’avenue.
- Ofr and Yvon Lambert for magazines and books. It’s a ritual, you can go anytime. You will always find something.
- Dover Street Market just for the smell.
- Seconde Vue, only vintage sunglasses, very good curation!
- Collector Square. They have the best vintage bags! If you wanna find your fav vintage Chanel at a pretty good price.
- The Alaïa store that just opened in on rue Saint Honoré, just because it’s so beautiful and nothing can be compared to Alaïa.
- L’ibis Rouge––this charming woman has had it for years and has the best vintage jewelry in town.
- Au Débotté for some period furniture. It’s so so good and mysterious.
- If you can, go to an auction at Drouot!
MILAN
- Dmagazine. It’s a mess, the music is loud, and all the brands are mixed, packed, and disorganized. You enter and you want to buy everything. Clothes from 1 or 2 season’s ago at a reasonable price. There are three in Milan.
- Magazzino 76––good vintage furniture. For Italian vintage lamps and much more.
- 10 Corso Como. Good for fashion and art books. There is also a fashion store, but I go more for a book and a spritz there.
- Fondazione Prada for books! I've found some of my favorite books there. Not a lot of choice, but only good options, and, of course, the exhibitions, always.
- Slam Jam, per forza
- Antonia if you are’ around Brera. If you wanna try your fav Attico cocktail.
- I have my little obsession for religious stores in Italy so I’ll suggest to go in every church shop, but this one close to my house is so good: Manifatture Mario Bianchetti.
- L’edicola di largo Treves for magazines.
