Michael Kors

Paris’s romance with American designers continues with the recent opening of the new Michael Kors store—his first in Paris and his largest anywhere—timed to coincide with his 30th anniversary in the business. With more than 60 retail outlets around the globe, it’s surprising that it took Kors so long to reach the world’s fashion capital, especially since he spent seven years here, from 1996–2003, as artistic director for Céline. His glittering 7,000-square-foot boutique on the rue Saint Honoré, the city’s haute fashion street, is already a hit—an impressive showcase for
the all-American Kors blend of strong, classic lines and forthright glamour.

With fellow Americans Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger nearby, Kors is not quite a pioneer on the street, but his luxurious boutique, gleaming in white and chrome with zebra rugs and floor-length mirrors, outdoes his compatriots in the glam factor. The first floor houses a tantalizing selection of bags, shoes and accessories, along with the more affordable “everyday” line; stars from the latest runway collection are upstairs, with prices starting at around €1,000. A warm and welcoming staff makes shopping here a pleasure, a real bonus in often haughty Paris.

279 rue Saint-Honoré, 1st, 01.70.36.44.40. website

Originally published in the May 2011 issue of France Today