When it comes to power house cities for fashion there are only a select few that spring to mind. London, New York, Milan are mammoth fashion influences across the globe, however it is Paris that holds the strongest bid for rightful fashion capital of the world. The seemingly effortless Parisian style is desired by many, but where did its prestigious reputation of elegance and flair originate? We take a brief look back at the history of Paris Fashion and the road it’s taken to acquire the fought after ‘fashion capital’ title. While this label is up for debate among the fashion industry, in France fashion drives a considerable amount of business in Paris, making it a popular spot for work, leisure and, most of all, shopping.
Paris continues to be a magnet for aspiring designers with its ever-changing looks and trends keeping it the most talked about city for fashion
Bourbon monarchs
As a key element of culture and tradition in Paris, fashion in the capital has a long history dating back to the 1670s, sparked by the creation of the Paris fashion press. Many believe the French owe their famous chic style to the Sun King, or Louis XIV as he is otherwise known. The dresses of this era can only be described as flamboyant and opulent - from a time when the extravagance of one’s dress echoed their wealth and status; the more frills, volume and ruffles, the better.
The French Revolution
Paris fashion trends changed dramatically when the French revolution sparked an anti-fashion movement. As a symbol of protest to royal power, a group of people, known as the “sans culottes”, a widespread group of rebels, made a point of not wearing this royal clothing item demonstrating their commitment to the rebellion. Instead, simplicity and modesty were emphasised, with supporters of the movement sporting aprons, clogs and mobcaps accompanied by the pro-revolutionary colours of white, blue and red.
Haute couture
It was only a matter of time before high fashion made a return. During the 19th Century Haute couture re surfaced, this time more flamboyant than ever. The arrival; of custom-fitted clothing inspired by eastern influences meant women could at last ditch their restrictive corsets in exchange for freeing, decorative fabrics.
Dior’s New Look
Enter Dior’s New Look, the 1950s Paris fashion trend that accentuated women’s hourglass shapes as to celebrate femininity, highlighting rounded shoulders, sinched in waits and full skirts, very familiar elements drawn from the days of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. With the momentum of fashion trends picking up, this soon became old news. Yves Saint Laurent launched his debut “Trapeze” collection promoting looser fitting clothes, deliberately not drawing attention to contours of the body - a complete U-turn in the fashion world.
Paris cemented its hold on style when Dior became one of the most influential designers of the mid century
Paris Fashion Show
The 1973 Battle of Versailles Fashion show was the first of its kind, pitting American and French designers against each other in a momentous event shining a bright spotlight on this fashion rivalry.
The roller-coaster ride of Parisian fashion trends has kept the world at the edge of their seats through the years, with each designer, movement and craze contributing to their well-deserved recognition and admiration in the fashion world. To demonstrate why the city retains this status today, look no further than the golden triangle – a lavish district that’s home to some of the world’s most famous fashion houses - a veritable magnet for shopping enthusiasts.
The Golden Triangle
Today, the Golden Triangle gains huge traction for business in Paris and rightly so. The district is located between three of Paris’s most famous boulevards; Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the Avenue Montaigne, and the Avenue George V. The area boasts some of the best labels in the business; Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Valentino and Chanel are just a handful of designer brands lining these streets. It’s no wonder fashion lovers gravitate towards the golden triangle. If you find yourself drawn to this fashion haven, we have a prime selection of desirable apartments located in the midst of this exciting area.
A long queue forms outside of the popular store front of Louis Vuitton on Champs Élysées, the luxury brand recognised across the globe for its signature monogrammed prints
Situated on the brink of La Seine, Eiffel View Apartments, as the name suggests, is blessed with stunning views of its surroundings. In true Parisian style the elegant and sophisticated furnishings complement the beautiful environment in which this apartment is situated. Stroll past Paris’s most iconic building to explore the famed shopping district for Paris fashion, attracting glamorous crowds from all over the world.
True to its name, the luxurious and spacious Eiffel View is the ultimate Paris serviced apartment boasting magnificent views of the iconic city
Bugeaud Apartment provides spacious and comfortable serviced accommodation in Paris, fully equipped for a true home from home stay. Here you are a mere 10-minute drive or 25-minute walk away from the Golden Triangle and some of the most beautiful sights Paris has to offer. If you’re a luxury label lover you’ll be in seventh heaven rubbing shoulders with likeminded fashionistas browsing the notorious high-end boutiques.
Sleek and modern, this unique apartment is superbly located just 22 kilometres from Orly Airport, an ideal base for a trip to the fashion capital
Staycity Apartments offer a convenient base to explore the city as a hot spot for sightseeing, shopping and leisure. Catch a taxi and cruise alongside the river to reach the renowned Fashion district in less than half an hour. There’s an abundance of things to do and see, or you can simply spend the day in awe of the immaculate store fronts that decorate the luxurious avenues.
Decorated in turquoise and neutral tones these apartment provide all the comforts of home
If the history behind this fashion capital has you intrigued and left you wanting to delve into the Golden triangle district yourself, read on for our top serviced apartments in Paris recommendations or browse our full portfolio of serviced apartments in Paris here.
