OK, this happened by surprise, but...sometimes that’s the best way to discover something new and wonderful. And in fact, that’s why my Substack is called “La Flâneuse” — because discovering new moments around every corner is my favorite pastime.
How often do you find a photo-worthy workshop where the actual artisans are making something pretty? This charming hat atelier is called La Cerise Sur Le Chapeau and it’s in the 6th arrondissement on Rue du Cherche-Midi, not far at all from Le Bon Marché et La Grande Epicerie. It was irresistible, so I went in and yes I ended up buying two hats.
It was the colors that drew me in through the big windows right on the A few hours later I was the proud new owner of two beautiful chapeaux (including a burgundy-hued beret that my husband says makes me look like a real Parisienne ha!). I haven’t stopped wearing them since.
This is not an ad, just sayin. But really, La Cerise Sur Le Chapeau is a must-visit in Paris if you love hats and hues and adorable artisans. The craftsmanship is great, the staff are kind and helpful, and the atmosphere is super sympa. They have some vintage hat-making equipment and so many jolis rubans (pretty ribbons) and other hat accessories. Plus they also offer classically tailored handmade shirts. You can take home a piece of tailored fashion as a memento of your trip, and you can delight when people ask you where you got that wonderful beret/hat/shirt.
What I love most is that it’s a place of real makers. It’s not a tourist trap and they’re not overcharging for their pieces. Even the box and wrapping are special, and that’s how they made me feel during the process of selecting and accessorizing my own hats.
In the Neighborhood
Also there’s so much to do in the neighborhood once you’re wearing your sweet new hat! Below are some other addresses if you’re looking for spots to check out.
Le Bon Marché is a beautiful department store, worth a visit.
La Grande Epicerie is the enormous and stunning food market that is part of Le Bon Marché. They have several locations in Paris, but I love this one on the Left Bank. It’s connected by a bridge and you can find an incredible selection of literally everything—there’s even a seafood counter inside where you can order un plateau de fruits de mer and a glass of wine. Upstairs is a fancy homewares department where I’ve bought some of my favorite nappes (tablecloths).
Bar Josephine at the Hôtel Lutetia for cocktails. It is a super deluxe hotel with a gorgeous bar, but get there early or you won’t get in at all.
And the Luxembourg Gardens and a handful of famous St. Germain cafés are within walking distance.