Okay, so, let’s get real for a sec. You’re planning a trip to Paris, probably picturing yourself strolling along the Seine, effortlessly chic, right? And maybe, just maybe, you’re thinking of snagging some Chanel flats to complete the look. The big question, the *burning* question, is: will they be cheaper?
I’ve been down this rabbit hole, people. I’ve scoured the internet, obsessed over exchange rates, and basically lived on Chanel forums. And honestly? It’s…complicated.
Like, you’d *think* being a French brand, Chanel would automatically be a steal in Paris. It kinda makes sense, doesn’t it? The brand is French and should be cheaper in France. And in the past, that totally used to be the case. Remember those golden years pre-2020? Ah, simpler times. Sources were all talking about how Chanel bags were like, significantly cheaper in Paris, sometimes by thousands! We are talking thousands and that’s a lot of money.
But then…Covid happened. And, well, everything went haywire. Chanel, like every other luxury brand, started playing the price game, trying to “harmonize” prices globally. Aka, jack them up everywhere and pretend it’s for our own good. (eye roll).
So, what does that mean for your quest for cheaper Chanel flats? Truthfully, it’s kinda murky. Some sources claim that Chanel bags *are* still a bit cheaper in Paris, maybe by a few hundred bucks depending on the style. I mean, that’s still something, right? Enough for a fancy dinner (or two) afterwards to celebrate your purchase. But then I read other things that make me think it is not worth it.
But flats? That’s where it gets *really* fuzzy. I haven’t seen much specific intel on flats. Bags are definitely the headline-grabbers, the big-ticket items. Flats are usually less expensive and I feel like there is less value in them. My gut tells me the savings, if any, are going to be…minimal. Like, “barely enough to cover your croissant and cafe au lait” minimal.
Also, consider this: VAT refund! Remember you can get a refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) when you shop in Europe as a tourist. This can take a chunk off the price, regardless of whether the base price is technically “cheaper” than back home. That refund can add up, so factor it into your calculations! Don’t forget to bring your passport to the store, you’ll need it.
Here’s my totally unprofessional, based-on-internet-research-and-a-healthy-dose-of-hope opinion:
* Don’t go expecting a HUGE discount. Those days are probably gone. Sorry to burst your bubble.
* VAT refund is your friend. That’s where you’ll likely see the most savings.
* Do your research beforehand. Know the price of the flats you want back home, in USD or whatever currency you use. That way, you can instantly compare when you’re in the store.
* Don’t be afraid to shop around. Even within Paris, prices can vary slightly depending on the store, so check a few different locations if you have the time.
* Ultimately, buy them if you LOVE them. Sometimes, the experience of buying Chanel in Paris is worth a *little* extra, even if you’re not saving a ton. I have heard buying from the stores in Paris is a pretty good experience.
