When it comes to Parisian bohemian chic, Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief are bonafide experts. Paris is home to their cult fashion brand ba&sh, known for its feminine, free-spirited collections infused with a rock ’n’ roll edge.
“Paris is pure magic,” says Krief. “It’s the energy of the streets, the effortless elegance of its people, and the way history and modernity blend seamlessly. Whether it’s a quiet morning walk along the Seine or a vibrant night in Saint-Germain, Paris is a city that never ceases to inspire us. It’s where ba&sh was born, and where creativity thrives.”
Here, the duo share their IYKYK tips about how to navigate the city like a local, from the little-known art gallery only Parisians know about to where to go for the best Bellinis in town.
When is the best time to visit Paris?
Sharon: Paris is stunning in every season, but spring and early autumn are particularly magical. In spring, the city is in bloom, and in autumn, the golden leaves along the Seine create the most poetic scenery. Plus, the fashion scene is at its peak during these months for Paris Fashion Week, which is the best time for getting inspired.
Our first pitstop should be…
Barbara: I love strolling through the Bois de Boulogne with my family and our dog, either in the late afternoon or on weekends. When the weather is nice, I sit at La Buvette and order a small beer – simple things like that recharge me. I’ve also swapped my car for a bike and I really enjoy the ride from my home to ba&sh HQ in the Marais, taking the Seine along the quays. I never get tired of Paris.
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Your favourite hotel to check in at is…
Sharon: I love staying in hotels – I find it so romantic – I used to do it a lot when my kids were younger and I needed quiet moments for myself. For a splurge, a night at the Crillon with a view of Paris. Otherwise, Hôtel Hana, designed by my friend Olivier Leone.
For an early morning workout head to…
Barbara: When I wake up, I drink a glass of warm lemon water with agave syrup and put on my leggings for my Pilates or yoga sessions at Snake and Twist in the 16th arrondissement. I work out about four times a week. Starting my day with exercise helps me to feel good both physically and mentally.
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Where should we go for breakfast?
Sharon: Season by our friend Cathy Closier is my favourite spot for takeaway and I often get one of her super lattes on my way to the office.
Where can we find the best coffee?
Sharon: Without hesitation, Café de Flore. It’s an iconic place that exudes Parisian elegance and cultural history. The atmosphere is timeless, and you instantly feel connected to the soul of Paris.
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How about for a long, lazy lunch?
Barbara: I often go to Da Alberto, an Italian restaurant at 5 Rue Isabey in the 16th arrondissement. The atmosphere is family-friendly and the dishes are delicious. I recommend the artichoke pasta or the fish.
Your favourite restaurant in town?
Sharon: Paris is full of incredible places to dine, but if I had to choose a few, I’d say Bar des Pres for its refined cuisine and elegant atmosphere. I also have a special fondness for Girafe, not only for its spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower but also for the attention to detail – like cutlery engraved with my name, which makes every visit extra special.
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And for dinner with friends?
Barbara: In the evening, I love dining at Hôtel Costes – I often take friends visiting from abroad, but I also go for business lunches. Their terrace is gorgeous, their menu is great, and the service is always warm.
The drink to order at the bar?
Barbara: My favorite cocktail is the Bellini served in a pool glass, and I love having it at Costes. At La Buvette du Bois de Boulogne, I’d rather have a small beer. I adapt to the setting.
The best place for people watching?
Barbara: I live in the 16th arrondissement, but one of my favorite neighbourhoods is Saint-Germain-des-Prés for its atmosphere and cafés. Montmartre is also a quintessentially Parisian spot that I appreciate.
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The culture spot to rave about?
Sharon: I really enjoy visiting the Musée Rodin – especially for its magnificent garden, where the sculptures seem to wait for you. Recently, I also visited the Maison Gainsbourg on Rue de Verneuil which is such an inspiring place (at home I have a photo of Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg kissing, which is the first photo I ever bought). Then there are the classics I love: Musée Saint-Laurent, Fondation Vuitton, Palais de Tokyo.
Where can we go shopping?
Barbara: I love the variety of products – imported from the US and Japan, for example – available at La Grande Épicerie de Paris. For hosting dinners at home, you can find everything there. The place is beautiful – you could visit just for the pleasure of looking around.
Best vintage spots…
Sharon: I love going to Les Puces to look at vintage furniture. I go with my gut, I’m not a collector looking for specific styles, I just trust my instincts.
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For the best views head to…
Sharon: The Eiffel Tower. But honestly, just look up anywhere in Paris and you’ll want to photograph everything.
One place only locals know about…
Sharon: If you’re in the 7th arrondissement, stop by JAG, the art gallery by Jessica Berguig. I also love the Gagosian Gallery and Carpenters Workshop Gallery.
Is there anything to avoid – anything too touristy or overblown?
Barbara: Of course some spots can be quite crowded, but even the most famous ones like the Eiffel Tower or the Champs-Élysées have their charm when visited at the right time. I’d suggest exploring the small streets of the Marais, local cafés and restaurants in Saint Germain des Près, or even a sunset in Montmartre for an unexpected panoramic view of Paris.
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Is there anything we can do to look more Parisian?
Sharon: Confidence is key. Parisians have a way of looking effortlessly chic without overthinking it. A well-cut blazer, a great pair of jeans, and timeless accessories – this is the essence of Parisian style. Oh, and never underestimate the power of a perfectly tousled hairstyle.
What one word should we learn before we leave?
Barbara: “Ohlala” is a must – it’s the most Parisian word, expressing everything from excitement to frustration. But if there’s one thing we’d love for people to get right, it’s how to pronounce ba&sh! It’s not ‘B-A and S-H’—it’s simply ‘bash,’ like a chic Parisian celebration. Our brand was born from friendship and freedom, and that effortless, joyful spirit is woven into everything we do.
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A book to read before we go…
Barbara: We’d recommend Rue de la Gaité by Axel Auriant, a novel that feels like a backstage pass to the heart of Paris. This debut novel by the young actor is about passion, and a tribute to the icons that shape us. It lifts the curtain on a generation that still dreamt of the possibility of somewhere else. Just like Paris itself, it’s filled with nostalgia, ambition, and the pursuit of something greater, a perfect read to feel the city’s soul beyond its landmarks.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?