Paris Sales: One Week Only!

It seems that, to help stimulate Parisian shoppers, that the government has exceptionally allowed certain department stores to hold sales, aka Les Soldes, just for one week (April 22-28).

In Paris, these stores include BHV, Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, C&A, Virgin, and Habitat, but I also saw soldes signs on other shops, such as the Benetton on the Champs Elysées.

Normally, there are only two sales periods in France: summer (July) and winter (January). They last five weeks and while mostly targeting the clothing and accessories stores, pretty much extends to all shops. Will France soon be like the US, where there are "sales" all of the time?

Update on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 by Heather

Some shops, independent of the grands magasins, continue their sales past the 28th April date, so deals are still to be found for anyone who is looking to part with a few Euros.

Comments

[Chaz]

I have yet to be in France during Les Soldes. Curious, does the detaxe still apply during Les Soldes? That could really make a special trip cost effective. :)

[Heather]

Yes, taxes are levied even during sales, so the reimbursement is also applicable. Better hurry and get here before they're over! ;)

[Dave Guilford]

I couldn't believe what I saw at the Stock Marques in my neighborhood yesterday (It is primarily a men's clothing store). They're calling it a Soldes and for €199 you get:

1 Suit
1 Pair of Shoes
2 Shirts
2 Ties

Thought that was pretty amazing, because they have some pretty decent stuff. If anyone is interested, they're next door to the Lamborghini dealership on Grande Armee near l'Etoile.

[Dave Guilford]

Belay my last.

I just walked by the storefront again and they are calling it their "15 Days of Folly". For €199 you get:

1 Suit
2 Pairs of Shoes
2 Belts
2 Shirts

I might have to check this one out myself.