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A FRENCH GIRL'S GUIDE TO PARIS FASHION WEEK
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Maje, just in time for Paris Fashion Week, we caught up with the founder of the much-loved French brand, Judith Milgrom. This proud Parisian tells us what the City of Lights has to offer from a favourite haunt she shares with Picasso to the best place to sip a vodka cocktail…
Can you describe the atmosphere of your city during Fashion Week?
Paris is full of energy as the fashion world descends on the city. You can see models everywhere holding their portfolio in their arms on their way to shows. It’s also easy to spot influencers, all dressed up with the most daring looks ready to be snapped by street style photographers. I love this time because it’s the perfect occasion to people watch, be inspired and see the new trends play out. The atmosphere is quite electric but it’s also a week of hard work, finalising the Maje collection as it’s the week we show to the press.
Have you any tips ahead of Paris Fashion Week?
It’s a very busy time so if there’s places you want to visit or see make sure you book in advance! Also, it’s a good idea to organise your fashion week wardrobe before you go, and bring a camera.
Where is the place to be seen?
Saint-Germain-des-Près at the Café de Flore (a classic Parisian café and favourite of Picasso’s) is the place to see and be seen. Lunch at Chez Georges is great for authentic French cuisine, Kunitoraya is great for Japanese food - lots of fashion insiders can be found enjoying an evening here. And for drinks Caviar Kaspia have the best vodka in town – the perfect way to end a busy, fashion-filled day.
HOW DO YOU ESCAPE THE FASHION FRENZY?
I love a walk in the Jardins du Luxembourg.
Café de Flore, Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris.
WHERE DO PARISIANS GO FOR THEIR CULTURE FIX?
I love Galerie Perrotin a contemporary art gallery founded by Emmanuel Perrotin, it is the best place for modern art, also the FIAC fair is a much anticipated art event for Parisians.
Describe the typical style of your city.
Effortless and classic with a twist and with a hint of understated glamour. It’s always balanced.
HOW DOES PARIS INSPIRE YOU?
I’m more inspired by Parisian women than the city itself, and the city lends itself to people watching with its café terraces.
FIAC International Art Fair, Grand Palais, Paris.
Maje is available in our Brown Thomas Dublin, Cork, Galway and BT2 Dundrum stores. Coming soon exclusively to Brown Thomas in Ireland, the M Duo Clutch in leather.