How I Experience the Joie de Vivre of Paris—Even in Winter

janvier 16, 2026

RACHAEL BURROW RUMMEL
Style & Market Director

Bonjour, friends! I am coming to you live from Paris, where the annual textiles market Déco Off is in full swing. Catherine and I have seen so many amazing fabric, wallpaper, trim, furniture, and lighting launches this week and cannot wait to share all of our discoveries with you.

In between appointments and parties, we are soaking up the magic of Paris—and especially of the 6th arrondissement, where many of the showrooms for Déco Off are located. There's something special about Paris in winter, and seeing so much beauty on and off the streets is such an inspiration. Read on for my secrets to enjoying the city!

x
Rachael

3 Ways to Discover the Soul of the 6th Arrondissement and Beyond

WINDOW SHOPPING (AND ACTUAL SHOPPING)
There's nothing like window shopping in Paris. No matter which street you're on, there seems to be a charming shop selling antiques, tableware, walking sticks, vintage clothing, art supplies, rare books…you name it, the list goes on. We've had time to discover some new and new-to-us shops along the way this week—from the amazing vintage wares, like Yves Saint Laurent, Prada, and Hermès at Desert Vintage (which also has a post in NYC) to the charming new home for Antoinette Poisson (the brand inspired by domino papers) on rue Bonaparte, there's been no shortage of window shopping and actual shopping.

We loved popping in Galerie Vauclair for amazing antique woven furniture and tableware (they also have a spot at Paul Bert); visiting Simrane for incredible block printed tablecloths, quilts, pillow covers, and more; and checking out the beautiful clothing at Maria de la Orden.

PHOTOGRAPH BY CHESNOT/GETTY IMAGES

MUSEUMS...AND MORE MUSEUMS
It's no secret that I love a museum, and it's always a plus when I can squeeze in a quick visit to one during down time. Even in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, there are museums to be had: this is more niche, but if you are a Jane Birkin fan (and yes, I finished Marisa Meltzer's book—it's worth a read!), I recommend the Maison Gainsbourg house and museum tour. I have not yet been, but the Musée Delacroix is on my list as well (it's next door to Yveline Antiques on rue de Furstemberg). And a bit further flung, I'm also dying to see the Maison de Victor Hugo. I have a feeling I'll want to recreate the olive green-clad living room with his collection of hanging antique plates after visiting.

TAKE IN THE BEAUTY OF EVERY DAY
The Parisians know how to make everything an experience—even my hotel breakfast is served like it's a special meal. One of my favorite places to go when in Paris is La Grande Épicerie—it's a feast for all the senses. Meats, cheeses, the freshest produce, wines, foie gras, confitures, and more are all perfectly displayed and arranged—it makes grocery shopping an art form. I love stopping in the neighborhood fromageries and boulangeries as well to see what's inside. It's a treat to pick up tea from Conservatoire des Hémisphères, and I always stop into the pharmacy as well to stock up on skincare. And the most cheerful thing to see on the street when walking in January? The clouds of yellow mimosa spilling out of the flower shops. Talk about simple beauty!

A PARISIAN PLAYLIST
A friend shared this playlist with me, and it's my new favorite listen—especially when pounding the pavement of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.