A new concept store opened in Paris recently - the likes of which haven’t been seen since Colette's launch 12 years ago.
'Merci' is located Paris’ hip le Marais district. Housed in a former factory, the facade gives no idea of what lies within. It borrows the concept from department stores where people can easily spend a morning or afternoon having coffee in its library of second-hand books, and then move onto its retail floors that stock an eclectic mix of designer pieces (from Stella McCartney to Yves Saint Laurent) alongside vintage and bespoke creations, as well as perfume, discounted Annick Goutal fragrances, home décor, fabrics, buttons, beads, and a flower shop. One’s afternoon can include lunch in the Cantine and a gelato overlooking a beautiful courtyard. The prevailing aesthetic is simple and functional and nothing is terribly pricey.
However, the twist of this concept store is that the profits go to a children’s charity in Madagascar. And the owner and consumers aren’t the only ones contributing: numerous designers donate their product and are acknowledged in a clever way: the word 'Merci' is painted on the wall next to their contributions. Merci is definitely a store for the times, linking fashion with philanthropic ideals - feel good shopping.
No comments:
Post a Comment