Former fashion model and French Vogue stylist Caroline Sciamma-Massenet is our go-to for Parisian intel.
Her brand, SKIIM Paris, creates ethical, modern, and versatile leather pieces that can be effortlessly incorporated into a woman’s everyday wardrobe. Designed with longevity in mind, and created with a minimal environmental impact, her collections of consciously-sourced leather have an irreverent nod to the sex appeal and rebellion of the 60s and 70s ingénues of French cinema and music.
Here we talk to Caroline about her favourite sustainable boutiques, beautiful green spaces, and where to find the best plant-based restaurants in the French capital.
Where should we shop?
Vintage: Didier Ludot Palais Royal is the best vintage fashion boutique. I love vintage furniture, so I look for 50s-60s design at Le Marche aux Puces at Porte de Clignancourt. Homeware: Maison de Vacances: it has an authentic look – cool, understated and cosy. Fashion: Now that Colette and Montaigne Market are gone, I always go to Le Bon Marche where I find most of my pieces. They have a big selection of high-end but also emerging designers. I don’t like to wear the same piece as everyone, so I love to support young designers who are usually responsible in choosing their fabrics. Jewellery: I shop at Statement Paris for earrings, silver and diamonds, they have a selection of edgy pieces but with a vintage art deco look. I also love Schiaparelli’s jewellery, especially their necklaces, quirky and chic. Sustainable Boutiques: Merci in Marais is a trendy three-story boutique where you can find everything from fashion to homeware.
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Where should we eat and drink?
Breakfast: You can’t go wrong with Wild and Moon, they have eight cafes in Paris. Jah Jah for vegan African Caribbean dishes and Sol Semila for homemade organic, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Lunch: Maisie Cafe is a charming vegan coffee shop in the heart of Paris, BrEAThe for vegan Asian cuisine and Potager Charlotte for gourmet plant-based dishes. Dinner: Le Meurice by Alain Ducasse, it was the first restaurant to receive the eco-label. Drinks: Bambino for a night of music and good drinks, the bar is a tribute to Tokyo’s jazz cafes.
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Where should we stay?
- Mandarin Oriental Paris on Rue Saint-Honoré, it has a vegetable garden on its roof.
- Le Lutetia is the epitome of contemporary Parisian style and only uses LED lighting.
- Hotel Hoy is a calm space for unwinding, with a holistic approach and on-site well-being experts.
- Hidden Hotel is an eco-friendly hotel with lots of natural textures, like wood, concrete, marble and wool.
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Where should we relax?
I go to my best friend’s Holistic spa HOLIDERMIE in Le Marais for a personalised treatment using the gong, gua sha and crystals sounds. I also love massages at Ban Sabai.
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Best green spaces?
- Jardin du Luxembourg is the most beautiful park in Paris.
- Jardin des Tuileries, located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde.
- Parc Monceau is great for kids.
- Jardin d’acclimatation has been refurbished with activities for kids so they can have fun in a more natural environment.
- Parc des Buttes Chaumont is one of the biggest parks in Paris.
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What should we pack for a trip to Paris?
SKIIM Paris leather Gaby joggers, Karla trench coat, or Lucy pencil skirt. Boum Boum milk from Violette_FR is a vegan lotion spray for the face and hair, they do a travel-size bottle – it’s the best! A crossbody bag for safety, a pair of Veja sneakers to explore the city in comfort, and a sketchbook to document your ideas – I’m always finding inspiration from people in the street and things or places I see. Oh, and a refillable water bottle.
What’s your Paris secret?
A lymphatic drainage massage by Martine de Richeville, anti-cellulite guaranteed.
Eco-friendly activity?
Shopping in the local farmer’s market.
Souvenir to take home?
Go to La Grande Epicerie de Paris at Le Bon Marche to find the best food treats to take home.
One place only locals know about?
Potager Charlotte where you can eat local farm products or BrEAThe for vegan sushi.
Any Questions or Tips to add?