NEVER DO THESE THINGS IN A LUXURY STORE ! How to Feel confident in a luxury store

[@lagniappe1727]

I visited Paris last Spring and spent one day shopping in the designer boutiques. I was dressed simply, but neatly, and carried a mid-tier handbag with no obvious branding. I was treated with politeness and respect everywhere I went and had a marvelous time. My mother always told me "Wherever you are going, look like you belong there". I fear many people has forgotten this.

[@sarizonana]

Maybe you like me got treated well because didn’t visit the true boutiques but the mini boutiques in department stores. Last summer I was in Paris my mom and we visited galleries Lafayette and all the mini boutiques in there we like you we had the fortune to be treated pretty well even if we didn’t dress super fancy and I guess now it’s because we were in a department store and not an exclusive boutique. Maybe the dress attire is more forgiving in department stores, here Alice suggests if you want to do window shopping before making your choice which bag you wanna buy it’s better visiting department stores, maybe also the dressing code is slightly more relaxed in department stores. My mom and I didn’t visit any of the boutiques which were on the fancy streets like St Germaine or Champs Elise, we visited boutiques inside the big department stores and that made the difference. I guess my suggestion for anyone buying luxury in Paris for the first time it’s going to department stores. Plus it’s more practical everything in one place. We loved galleries, we visited Also the food building and it was such a great experience. All. The best pastries and food was there. We had eclaire d Genie, Pierre Herme and so many other great things to try. I loved Galleries for shopping and eating.

[@emocuta]

Money doesn’t buy CLASS and sophistication. Lots of people in America who flaunt their money but look and behave cheaply! Thank you for this video Alice🙏🏼❣️

[@chickadee8180]

I visited Paris this summer, and had so much fun observing how different the shopping culture is there vs. in the US. I really enjoyed talking to sales representatives; everyone I met was so kind and courteous, and encouraging me in practicing french even though I'm still learning- as many will know, the stereotype in the US is that the French (and Parisiens especially) are snobby and rude, but I found people to be much more welcoming than in the States, as long as you make literally any effort at all to be polite and respectful. I love the expectation of greeting the owner or employees when you walk in, and the expectation that everyone is to be polite and courteous. Americans have very low respect for retail workers, working conditions are not great, and customer service is usually not very good as a result. It was so refreshing to see a retail environment where not everyone seems miserable all the time. For so many reasons, I had a wonderful experience and am so grateful to all of the amazing people I met that made my trip so memorable ❤ And, of course, I watched some of your styling tips for inspiration before arriving, Alice ☺️ And for anyone planning to visit France and feeling intimidated by the language, I really recommend that you just go for it and try! I found that, even if you make mistakes, most people will be very kind, and even help you learn new words/phrases, and will really appreciate that you are making an effort. The only exception was in *very* touristy areas/shops, because the staff often are exhausted from dealing with rude customers all day, so they are sometimes less patient. But if you avoid only tourist traps, you will meet wonderful people and have a great experience ❤️

[@clareinnes2048]

Go elsewhere and discover beautifully made items that are worth the cost. Stop buying things to show off to others - choose quality over brand!

[@maggielim7430]

I visited Europe and London a few months ago,as a tourist , I didn't dress up but in my normal jeans and casual tops. All luxury stores I visited treated the customers with welcoming manners and very helpful...so no need to worry, just be yourself .

[@wizardscauldron]

I was in the Chanel, LV & Longchamp boutiques in Paris directly after my red eye from the US. I dropped off my bags at the hotel since check in was not until later and went to explore. I was dressed casual and had no issues getting the salespeople to assist me. They offered me drinks and chocolate too. I am not intimidated by luxury stores since I live in nyc. I go in to browse all the time.

[@thunter8718]

Agreed. I was raised to always dress up. You never know who you will meet. Also it is being respectful to the people and places you go too.

[@Bluetreez]

The clothes on your body have nothing to do with your character

[@Lily4444]

Such crap! They should be polite to the customer always

[@HeatherHasGame]

I don’t see the appeal of these “luxury” brands anymore. When I was 20 years old, I wanted these things, but basically nobody had them. Now everyone has “luxury” everything, and here in America, it is probably more likely for someone to have those things if they are trashy. When I was 22 I worked with a girl who owned a Dior bag that was worth more than her car, which had rust holes all over it and barely ran. She was generally extremely cringe. The other people I have met since then who owned luxury bags tend to also have a lot of obvious plastic surgery like lip injections and fake boobs. It is honestly like a stereotype at this point for the average person, when you think of the type to wear Chanel bags, you don’t imagine someone sophisticated or tasteful anymore. So exclusive? I don’t think so. Or not in any way that counts. It just makes people look desperate and shows how they are trying way too hard to get the approval of other people on a really shallow, meaningless basis.

[@Francyssaleh]

It's true, I agree with your point of view, luxury has changed so much in 20 years and with the ease of access I notice a new stereotype of people who are the new obsessed customers and buy everything in search of approval. And that's what brands want!

[@jenniferschneider6979]

If you can afford and have money to burn on this 'luxury' crap, you should be able to wear whatever you want into a 'supreme luxury store'. Bad behavior, either on the part of the customer or sales person, is another story all together.

[@hb4884]

Typical American mindset.

[@Blondie77128]

@@hb4884Typical European judgemental response

[@juliewilson5997]

​@hb4884 no it isn't. The luxury sector is in decline.

[@silko79]

@@juliewilson5997Hermes is not in Decline- far from it!

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

Most of my fellow Americans dress far too casually or “too sexy”. I wish they would stop trying to force their sloppy, too-casual, too-revealing attire on the rest of us who know how, and want, to dress appropriately in public. Businesses here have the right to refuse service to anyone, except for a few illegal discriminatory reasons, like race or religion. A bar or restaurant, for example, will refuse service to anyone they think is already too drunk to safely, or decorously, drink more. I’m sure it’s similar in France and elsewhere in Europe.

[@lisa.user-xm7kz2tb6x]

As a younger person in the early 90's, I purchased a Burberry trench, LV bag, Prada shoes,.. then I recieved weird attention from everyone in real life except in stores!! High-names became out of fashion for a reason. Soon-enough, info about Nike's workers (think Apple's too) et al came out. Got rid of it all, no regrets. Unbelievably, people fell for it again just years later. Private, talented designers, grass roots look more expensive today, by the way. Ty.

[@SB_41]

Side story: The Chanel that turned away Bethenny Frankel is the boutique in Chicago. This is where I have an established BA. Every single boutique on Oak Street requires an appointment to shop. Some will allow lines. This is directly related to the smash & grab etc. occurring in the Gold Coast. They would not allow Jesus Christ in without an appointment even if she was wearing vintage Chanel Couture. I actually sent a text of gratitude to my BA when this event made the news. Bethenny is insufferable.

[@Aliceinparisofficial]

Hello thanks for confirming most high end boutiques like Chanel or Hermes are now less tolerant with "just walk in" this is the case in Paris even there is no looting. This is the new policy :)

[@BelAge]

The very concept of luxury is that it is utmost quality, exclusive and not easily attainable. Some people see luxury items as a status symbol, without giving much thought about the quality of the material and its workmanship. They are the people who just want to floss on social media, and show the world, look what I have.

[@crustyrash]

I love your Celine bag! Being polite and understanding the way things are done in France vs. the U.S. make a big difference.

[@ciganyweaverandherperiwink6293]

Ooof, filming when shopping in a designer store or any upmarket boutique is just such a no-no. I totally agree. Same with creating a scene. There are channels to go down if you have a genuine grievance and you'll be looked after if you avoid making a spectacle of yourself in public. And lastly, you're absolutely right: it's NOT about money. These vulgar ignorant 'influencers' are entitled little monsters with absolutely no sense of etiquette, style, education, social or cultural sophistication about them. It's painful to witness.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

I’ve never been to a luxury designer shop, all except, I think, Chanel and Hermes, have websites to shop. Plus, I live in the burbs, I’d have to go into San Francisco proper to access one. I only do this if I must, parking is such a nightmare, and I commuted every day there and back by bus during my career. We have many Premium shops where I live, and I mostly shop at this level. I only buy designer luxury if I fall so in love with something that I can’t live without it. Quality is the most importantly thing to me in choosing items for my wardrobe, but it has a ceiling. A $4,000 cashmere sweater isn’t ten times better than a $400 one, the price differential is just to get brand status, about which I couldn’t care less! Thanks, Alice.

[@princessrico19]

Wow, I had a different perspective from the stores over there, im from the States, and yes, you are supposed to treat the customers nice even though they are rude to us.. Thank you Alice, so lovely so watch you❤

[@lisapsd]

First and foremost fall in LOVE with what you are buying. Luxury is simply something very beautiful and well made and it should have nothing to do with the logos or the box or any of the rest of the marketing nonsense which seems to have engulfed "luxury" brands since social media became king. ..Buy that scarf because you are enchanted by it not because it happens to be in a particular store...

[@ceasarsaran8573]

I would never do any of these things in any store. I wouldn't do that in a dollar store or at Dior, or anywhere else. I wouldn't wear an actual fake any more then I would steal a bag. If I wanted to have a similar bag, I would just buy. similar bag from a cheaper brand. Fortunately, I really dont like Hermes bags that much. I LOVE their boots, b ut their bags are too square. I dont touch things I dont intend to purchase, and I dont really enjoy shopping. I shop to own. And honestly, I dont want any kind of customer service other then to ring things up.

[@juliewilson5997]

Interesting that the "luxury" stores are so elitist when their quality is so lacking and unjustified insane price increases. (Hermes the exception). The customer should be demanding more from them. The reality is shown with the recent Dior scandal. I was in Paris earlier this year Chanel in Rue Cambon was empty. We need to redefine what's luxury because if it’s mass produced and of poor quality it's not luxurious.

[@Pichkowitsch]

I never set foot in a luxury store and I think now I never will. It's honestly intimitating. I feel like a 2nd class human 🐒

[@totesgene]

It’s not at all. I always wear what I want and don’t dress up. I have been in these boutiques many times and have always had great and friendly service.

[@adriennebrown3778]

Just a question: do you think current "influencer"-types are cheapening the concept of exclusivity & selectivity that used to be associated with luxury brands like Chanel/Hermes? Are these brands worried that "cheap money" types are ruining a time-honoured brand reputation? I feel less drawn to it (even if I could afford) than before 😮

[@Aliceinparisofficial]

Hello I don't want to spit name here but when I see girls showing every week new Hermes or Chanel unboxing while getting "free" goodies from designer brands ( free goodies is for Walmart :) I think we have already passed this point. To the point that it is not working as it was for these influencers. Curious to see their digital strategy in the next years

[@adriennebrown3778]

@@Aliceinparisofficial very interesting, I saw one girl in a luxury shop decked out in head to toe "purchases" including jewellery, then walking on the street (interviewed by host) & it looked like a set-up in some way. Yes, agree... past the point

[@dimad645]

I am sick of the word luxury. How about good taste. Trends and brands come and go. Good taste is here to stay. OK I do love a trend, guilty as charged. I am really into neon yellow. Somehow it fresheners up my look.

[@HopeVlog.]

Alice, can you also share vintage stores in Paris so we can score vintage bags and other things..Thank you

[@carlsenlifeafter60carlsen11]

They may be French, but they’re all made in China. Sweatshops mostly I wouldn’t spend a dime on any items in the store.

[@abkeener81]

Thank you 🙏 for this video and your content. I’m Andrew. I’m wondering if you can be a bit more specific about what’s appropriate attire (especially for gentlemen) in these types of stores. As an aside … my dream watch is a Rolex.

[@Aliceinparisofficial]

bermuda or trouser, shirt, blazer old money/quiet luxury vibe for men. Classix without being overdressed

[@abkeener81]

@@Aliceinparisofficial Got it. What if he doesn’t own any sport coats? I currently don’t. I have black chinos, some button up shirts, a polo, and sweaters. Also chelsea boots. I agree with the points you made that touch on various aspects of respect. As someone who’s spent the majority of his professional life in front facing, service sector positions … I can definitely say that a little kindness goes a long way.

[@dagmarfisk-yc1xg]

Another excellent video Alice. Thank you.

[@Rainn-v6l]

It sounds downright terrifying to visit Paris. Nervous breakdown trying to blend in.

[@legitgrails]

Thank you for the trust! 🙌♥

[@StylingPrincessM]

long story short, if you're acting like a karen, you'll be treated as a karen; don't be a karen, not everyone will put up with your BS 🙃

[@totesgene]

I liked your video. The only one I agree with is dressing up. I don’t look like a slob, I look put together, but I certainly am VERY casual all the time. I’ve received nothing but great service any time I’m in any of these shops.

[@Lauryn-Bay]

In my opinion, if a person has to dress and behave a certain way just to step into the store, then luxury brands require too much from customers in addition to their unreasonable prices and selling rules. Whichever brand it is, it exists only until people agree to play their game. But in the end of the day, even the Birking bag is just a bag to carry stuff 😉

[@ethereumrise7860]

Hi Alice, can you tell me if a Goyard large tote bag is worth the 5k USD? I am hesitating…

[@Aliceinparisofficial]

Hello Goyard is a great brand great quality which one ? the artois or St Louis. The St Loui is not made to carry heavy things because it is a light beach bag. The Artois is more sturdy and is made to carry laptop or shopping things

[@rhondagoodman9993]

Very interesting and informative. The French culture is very different from North American culture, but I think it shows more refinement and acting dignified.

[@Vanessa-id2im]

0

[@micheleharrop8319]

I am done with luxury which is not luxurious anymore !

[@OcarinaSapphr-]

I think perhaps, even if you already know how to care for something like silk or leather- it shows engagement, if you were still to ask...

[@Restless318]

so true always dress well

[@SB_41]

I carry Dior at Walmart and Costco. LOL. Respect for yourself is exactly correct!

[@andreabutiong525]

I love Paris but I definitely felt a much better luxury shopping experience at the stores in Madrid and Florence. Lines are too long. Even non-luxury stores can be snobby even though I’m dressed smart casual. Also, on the customer’s end, do be kind and friendly to the SAs. If SAs feel that the customer treats them like a friend/comrade rather than an assistant picking items for them, SAs will definitely treat you much better! Make small talk with them… Ask them about their lives… etc etc. because of this, I don’t shop luxury anymore in the U.S. They ship from Italy to me with EUR prices 😅

[@NataliaPullen]

❤❤❤

[@88Capybara]

How do you justify ‘luxury’ when the quality and service are inherently terrible (like sweat-shop quality with middle school catty behavior)? I believe in being polite and kind, but I do not believe in having to impress anyone, especially when I am to drop $$$$ on questionable quality… or products made in horrid labor conditions. I feel your video is pandering to pleasing the ‘luxury’ stores/brands/employees. True luxury is about kindness and compassion, and PERFECT STITCHING; none of which I have seen much in these ‘luxury’ brands…

[@Aliceinparisofficial]

@@88Capybara I am not talking about "designer brands"

[@snowwhite5842]

There are so many fakes out there with luxury brand names on all over it that I just assume they are all fake. Or bought by a sugar daddy.

[@alexandrasmith7682]

Good grief, never ever feel intimidated in any store, luxury of not! You have as much right to visit ..... But yes, you will have more fun if you are genuine and treat everything and everyone with respect. I tend to shop by appointment. Usually Chanel and D&G. I don't like all the social influencers who queue to get in but who rarely buy .... Only once did I turn up on the spot in London and the doorman jumped me ahead of a long queue of obvious influencers. Never have I had a poor sales associate experience. I also ask every time and whatever the store is ..... "May I bring my little girl dog in? ". I don't assume and on the rare occasion they have apologised and said no, I don't whine and complain.

[@LizLyonsPhD]

This offers food for thought. I have purchased in luxury stores in Paris and never thought about any of this. However, I never violated any of these norms either -- they are really common sense. Touching, yelling, demanding, are signs of ill breeding (as awful as that 19th century term sounds), in my opinion. Respect for the product, the sales associate (who is a professional, not just a "shop person"), genuine appreciation of the history and quality of the brand are simply common sense and courtesy. When I buy a luxury item, I consider it to be selecting or curating an addition to my collection -- whatever it is. I wouldn't want something that was "manhandled" by careless people and wouldn't want to do those irresponsible and crass things myself.

[@Aliceinparisofficial]

Thank you Liz. to be honest with you "luxury stores" nowadays look more like a circus

[@LizLyonsPhD]

@@Aliceinparisofficial ugh

[@kazaabitboll2026]

I have seen some awfully dressed Chinese in Luxery stores. They bring young children and ignore them and monopolise the sales staff. The staff love me, I crack jokes with them and I decide fast. The experience is diminished b other shoppers , I suppose that’s why they have private rooms.

[@SB_41]

I witnessed this behavior in the Chanel boutique in New Orleans over the Spring. It was cringe worthy; their child was running and screaming in the store.

[@mommabear5059]

Children shouldn’t even be in a luxury store. Sorry not sorry.

[@mariadolorsgm2]

👌🏻☺️♥️