Paris, the city of fashion, the place to be for shopping. The city has built its reputation through the years, becoming a reference in this field. If you are coming to Paris this season, stay at our luxury hotel in Paris 8th district and discover Gallery Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann
History
Created in 1893 by two cousins, the aim was to sell new items, all gathered in a small haberdashery (indeed, it was only 70 square meters at that time).
Drive by the economic model of “Grands Magasins”, which will later become famous all over the world as mall or shopping centres, the two cousins bought in 1896 first the number one of LaFayette street and then expanded on Haussmann boulevard. These acquisitions leaded to massive refurbishment works, given to Theophile Bader.
The new complex opened in 1912, revealing a brick-a-brack shop, full of luxury items. The architect wanted to create a “wow” effect and it works: nowadays, Galerie Lafayette is still an institution in the French capital.
The architecture is remarkable, in an Art Nouveau style,especially with a massive staircase inspired by the Paris Opera House and its massive dome, rising to 43 meters.
The brilliant idea developed by Galeries Lafayette was to create more than just a shopping area. Indeed, added to the 96 shopping departments, a tea room, reading room and a smoking room were built. Shopping became a leisure activity and not just a necessity. Though, the company stuck to its primary objective, to stay innovative and offer the best quality products. Theophile Bader developed its own brand, proposing the latest fashion to all and the success was immediate.
Galeries Lafayette continued to grow along the years,diversifying to men’s wear and home items and decorations, expanded more on the Boulevard Haussmann with new floor and buildings. It kept up with technological innovations and kept up through the different French crisis.
Nowadays
If there is a moment of the year you should visit Paris and Galeries Lafayette, it is winter! Beginning of November, the Christmas period is inaugurated, with the revelation of the shop windows and the Christmas tree.Every year, the tree is designed by a brand and in 2018, discover Piaget, a luxury jeweller, tree, located under the massive dome.
All year around, you can also enjoy unique shopping experience, thanks to two different packages. First one includes the access to a private lounge, with a dedicated concierge service, fast-track payment,complimentary drinks and snack and delivery of your purchase to your hotel and also a complimentary drinks and snack in one of the restaurants.
Second one is more exclusive, including different “à lacarte” services, from style consultation, hands-free shopping to limousine or taxi services. Book your experience on Lafayette’s website.
If you want to test the best of fashion, you can also rent clothes thanks to Panoply, new services of the shop. The principle is simple:choose an outfit and keep it for a week, delivery and cleaning included. Getthe best at all time!
Opening hours:
- Shopping areas: Mondays to Saturdays, from 9.30 am to 8.30 pm & Sundays from 11 am to 8 pm
- Gourmet areas: Mondays to Saturdays, from 8.30 am to 9.30 pm & Sundays from 11 am to 8 pm.
Enjoy your shopping experience in Paris while you stay at our luxury hotel on Haussmann boulevard.