Shopping has been ruined forever….

Nowhere is shopping so amazing as in paris.  The experience is fabulous in every respect, whether window shopping, a delight for the visual senses or trying on handmade couture items, you feel as though you are part of a tradition.  The windows change constantly and they are designed to please and be inviting.  The items have the prices so that there is no need to  guess how much your favorite item will cost and no need to go in if it is beyond your budget.   When trying on clothes in a boutique, the keepers offer their opinion but do not push.  They offer opinions both wanted and unwanted.  In the end, however  you feel content with your purchase and that you arrived at it with thought and consideration.  There is still service in a way that we seldom experience in the US.

Mr. Rock and Roll was visiting recently and we had the good fortune to experience these pleasures.  We visited Christian Louboutin and after spending an afternoon trying on many pairs, styles etc, I settled on three.  Obviously, not a bargain in the fiscal department but at least I know that I will not see 16 pairs of my chaussures parading down the streets of good ole USA.  They were manufactured only for France and the European markets and only certain number of each are produced.  (And on that note, always purchase when you find that perfect something.  Items are limited in size and when they are gone, non plus.)

Another day, we decided to look for lingerie.  I found a spectacular little spot just down the road, on rue Grenelle.  The items are handmade in Belgium.  The proprietress was super.  She left us to browse and when I decided to ask for some things, she had many  suggestions but only presented them, not  pushy at all.  There was a special room with a chaise lounge for chouchou and the items were laid out for us to try.  She helped with sizes etc when I requested but again did not push.  Mr. R&R enjoyed watching the show while enjoying un café.  The items fit unbelievably well and we of course found a  few to take home.

These experiences have been repeated many times throughout my time here.  There is no feeling of mass production that you feel in the US.  Of course, the quality in the boutiques and with service vary, but for the most part here it is the entire experience.  Service, unbelievable quality, presentation and consumer satisfaction.

There is just that je ne sais quoi, that is so French.