WHY: In Praise of Monoprix
Monoprix, Monoprix. Some say it’s the French answer to Target. I say it’s even better. Sure, there’s usually a grocery section full of fresh, quality food. Well-designed household goods and cosmetics. Lovely men’s and women’s clothes that seem as if they belong in a far more upscale store. But my favorite thing about Monoprix, and this goes back some, is the children’s department. I’ve never passed a Monoprix children’s department without wanting to buy half the clothes there, which is a problem because I don’t have kids to buy for at the moment. But I used to. I’ve purchased some lovely things for my own children, nieces, nephews and godchildren at the Monoprix.
A theme that will begin to assert itself in this substack is the French idea of democratization and equality: that there are aspects of life that should be available to everyone, not just the extremely wealthy or 1%. In the case of Monoprix, this means stylish clothing, made well. Monoprix’s children’s lines, especially, are founded on the idea that classic clothing and fashion should be available to all. Here are some examples from this season’s children’s lines:
Simple, classic baby clothes here.
Toddler clothes here.
Classic boy’s clothes here.
Lots of stripes. Soft, subtle colors. High quality fabrics, like Oko-tex cotton, that would be far more expensive in the US. All at affordable prices. In fact, if you see a well turned-out child, or two or three, in France, chances are their clothes came from Monoprix.
There are hundreds of Monoprix stores in France and they are a delight to visit. Impeccably arranged and decorated. Some of the best are right in Paris, like near l’Opera or Les Halles. They make a great place to pick up French souvenirs as well, something I plan to talk about more in a future post. Next time you’re in France, do yourself a favor and visit a Monoprix. You won’t regret it.
Just make sure you save some extra room in your suitcase.
A bientôt,
Stephanie
Yes! We went to HEMA when we lived in Maastricht for 6 weeks years ago.
I love Monoprix! We stayed in a Paris Air B&B several years and a Monoprix was right next to our building. The clothes and non-grocery items were on the lower floor, with the grocery level on the top. We visited both sections a lot (I swear, the tiny red strawberries in Paris are the most delicious I’ve ever had), but I can’t even tell you how often I shopped in that lower level. Pure bliss! I have a rain jacket & umbrella from there and still use both. I also bought myself some other clothes that I used for years after. And souvenirs— yes! Found so many there. Honestly, if we ever make it back to Paris, Monoprix is one of the places I intend to visit first.