As Paris fashion week is in full swing, we sit down with one of the city's in-the-know favourites to get the insider's guide to the French capital
Starry-eyed tourists pass through Paris every day, eager to soak up all the famed city has to offer. But those who live there will tell you that the Paris you really want to see is the one that only a local can show you. The classics are classic for a reason, but some jewels you’ll only find if you know where to look.
The Copenhagen-born, Paris-based designer at the helm of her eponymous label Louise Lyngh Bjerregaard sits down with Vogue Scandinavia to dish out her take on the French capital. From discovering coffee shops on the way to the atelier, to lunching with models and Balenciaga stylists, it is safe to say that Louise Lyngh Bjerregaard has managed to compile a cherished list of inner city destinations.
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Photo: © LOUISE LYNGH BJERREGAARD All photos by Frederikke-Agnete Svarre
The morning pit-shop
Ten Belles is tucked away in Rue Cherche Midi, a lovely street with loads of amazing small restaurants, luxury secondhand shopping and on a side street from Le Bon Marche. It feels very local and not touristy at all. And finally a place with sourdough buns with cheese. They’re also a specialty coffee roaster, so don’t forget to grab some.
Address: 53 r. du Cherche-Midi 75006
Poilâne has got to be another of my top choices, without a doubt, especially if you want to buy a good croissant or some sourdough bread. On the weekends there can be a queue outside, but people are well behaved and it's well worth it.
Address: multiple locations see here
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try Wild & the Moon, which always delivers on your favourite CBD smoothie, charcoal juice or acai bowl if you have overdone it on croissants and need a healthy start to your morning. I usually get the Hollyweed juice and their Rawliflower salad – I always feel re-energised when I’ve been here.
Address: 23 rue Pierre Demours 75017
For a tipple
Hotel Crillon is a great place to hang out and unwind if you’re in the area. And their courtyard is tranquil and cute – I recommend booking a table for afternoon tea on the weekend as well.
Address: 10, place de la Concorde; 75008 Paris
Cravan is one of my favourite places. I go here with friends and family as it's really the perfect, intimate spot to spend quality time. Plus it does elegant, considered cocktails and delicious food.
Address: 17 Rue Jean de la Fontaine, 75016 Paris
Something to eat
Chez Omar is a great option if you’re feeling hungover or just want to chill with friends. As with everything in life, it is what you make of it, and if you’re into a low-key good time and good food, then this is your place…
Address: 47 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris
Au Passage is a great place to celebrate and have lots of fun – I have celebrated here with my team many times. The atmosphere, coupled with the wine choice, is amazing, plus the owner's cute dog, who seems to live a busier life than most, adds an extra layer of charm. This is definitely the place to go to if you want to have a truly good authentic time.
Address: 1 bis Pass. Saint-Sébastien, 75011 Paris
Get your beauty fix
I came to Paris searching for the same treatments I would get in London at FaceGym and I discovered Face2Une and it's now my number one spot. I have taken almost everyone I know here. The interiors remind me of the Copenhagen nightclub Nasa as everything is super clean and minimal and the team is so professional. If you need a skin boost before dinner or a night out this is the place.
Address: 46 Rue de Richelieu, 75001 Paris, France
Green spaces
Paris is a big city with lots of noise, so to really relax I go to Jardin du Luxembourg. The park is really therapeutic; I watch petanque or chess matches being played or simply just zone out. You can also play tennis and there are pony rides for kids. And a part of the park is surrounded by statues of women, one particular one is the Reines de France et Femmes illustres which includes (as its name suggests) queens and other illustrious women from the history of France. For me, this has become an aesthetic breathing space.