The Best Berets in Paris

It’s up to you (and the elusive Parisian woman sipping a Merlot at a nearby brasserie) whether berets are fashionable, or pitifully tacky to wear. Whatever the verdict, there are two stores in Paris that I frequent when I need to stock up on this (what I consider) chic headwear.

As for my opinion on sporting berets, as long as it complements your outfit and isn’t pared with other pieces that scream “French hon-hon-hon Halloween costume,” I say there’s nothing wrong! After all, it’s a lovely splash of colour (and warmth) to a well thought-out ensemble.

So, don’t ber-ate me, and enjoy!

Expensive:

Laulhère

No beret list is complete without mentioning Laulhère.

This iconic French brand has been around since 1830. In 1840, they made their first beret, and since then, it has specialized in making nothing but - what else? - berets! The pride themselves on the quality and savoir-faire of the makers of their headwear, and they continue to utilize the same techniques that were introduced at the conception of their brand. They use top-quality materials, and their berets are still made by hand. The brand is so well respected, that it has even been granted the Origine France Garantie (French Origin Guaranteed) and the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage Company) labels.

Nowadays, Maison Laulhère still sells the classic beret, but they also have a plethora of unique iterations for sale. They continue to modernize the piece, and sell versions in non-traditional colours, with studs, pom-poms, and even in intriguing materials such as houndstooth and plaids.

If supporting French production and purchasing a high-quality, long-lasting product is important to you, these berets are a worthy investment. These berets last a long time, and don’t go out of style. They are also waterproof, and hold their shape throughout multiple uses. A worthy splurge, indeed. Que c’est magnifique!

Budget-friendly:

Espace Kiliwatch

If you’re looking to add some berets to your wardrobe that don’t break the bank, but are a step up from the flimsy products sold at tourist shops all throughout the French capital, look to the famous vintage store Espace Kiliwatch.

While the front of this store isn’t vintage, if you wander to the back, you’ll find many up-cycled and trendy pieces ready for a new home. Every time I’ve ventured inside, there have been many berets for sale, seeking a new home. Each of the berets seen in the photos below have been purchased from the store, at a fraction of their original price.

While there is a bit more pilling and loss of shape in comparison to the berets from Laulhère, there is no denying the merit of choosing Espace Kiliwatch as your option for the iconic headpiece. First of all, you’re doing your piece for the environment by giving a piece of clothing a new home (besides the landfill), and you’re also purchasing a high-quality at a fraction of the cost.

As they are vintage, I have often stumbled across from fascinating colours on sale at the shop. The pieces definitely make a statement, but not a dent in your wallet. They are good-quality, and keep my head nice and warm throughout all seasons.

For a good product at an affordable price, make sure to pop by the posh vintage shop the next time you’re in the mood to add some Parisian posh to your look.