[FONT="]Hi all,
I live in Paris and work at Place Vendôme, so naturally know the Goyard store like the back of my hand. (Also a big fan of Longchamp bags and have a sizeable collection.) Came across the FLP store on rue Cambon a few weeks ago, and loved the originality of the decor and the unique styles of their bags.
Been thinking of replacing my Goyard St. Louis (which is actually quite shabby after only 3 years!), with another Goyard model, but finally opted for a FLP Daily Battle Tote instead. Actually, was originally considering either the FLP "1717" bag or the "Vertical Cabas" shopper or the Goupille . Tried them all in the store.[/FONT]
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The 1717 seemed too "lady-ish" and reminded me of a Kelly bag. Has lots of pockets/compartments, but not as roomy as one would think. The Vertical shopper is huge, super tall at about 2 feet. But not too wide. Would be fine for transporting documents on a regular basis. The Goupilles handles are way too short to be able to occasionally wear it on the shoulder (hands-free), and I didnt like its hinge top closure.
In the end, the very friendly SA oriented me towards the versatile Daily Battle tote (which is points in their favor since it's less expensive than the "1717" (1760 euros / $2400), the Goupille 33 (1260 euros/$1700) and the Vertical Cabas (825 euros / $1125)). Wasnt initially interested in the DB Totes b/c of the long handles, but the SA pointed out that they are adjustable and can be shortened. So the tote can also look more like a casual purse. Also, the canvas (I dont get the feeling its pvc, as there is no pvc smell, and I can usually detect it a mile away) is strong but supple enough, so that I can fold in the sides so that the tote looks less wide (see photo below).[/FONT]
[FONT="]The DB totes range in price from 560-620 euros (approx. $760-$845), which is still less expensive than a Goyard St. Louis. [FYI, the small DB is 18" wide x 11" tall.] I also got a matching pochette, which, with the long wrist strap, can also double as a casual clutch! (see photo below) Got the small one [8" x 6" 165 euros/$22], because it can easily hold a smartphone + credit card holder + even a small coin-purse or keys. It's padded also, which is a really nice touch. (The larger one would be OK if I had an i-pad that I liked to always carry around, but in that case I'd probably get their i-pad pochette (315 euros)). [/FONT]
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Going back end of Jan. to check out their new tassel collection. They are pricey at 95 euros ($135), but are quite fat and fluffy and have 2 tones of leather, the signature (grey, blue, brown, burgundy, green) mixed w/ the FLP mustard yellow. I may also get a wallet. The flagship one (4.5 x 3.5) is perfect, not too bulky and can hold about 6 cards + bills + receipts + coins (290 euros/$400). They have about 5 other models, including the simple card holder. The craftsmanship seems fine, and solid, nice leather reinforcements everywhere. [/FONT]
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RE shipping vs. buying local : If your total is more than 1100 euros (approx. $1500), then its worth it to have the bag shipped. Youll get -20% (which is the French sales tax since Jan 01, 2014) and pay 65 euros for the shipping. Under that, its cheaper to get someone else to buy it for you, get the -12% detax and bring it back to the US. The shipping costs 65 euros for a tote + pochette (for ex.) . [/FONT]
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Kudos to all the staff (all English-speaking, super friendly Asians) at all the locations (rue Cambon, Gal. Lafayette, & Printemps). Especially Eugénie at Gal. Laf.! You dont always get such friendly service at other boutiques in [/FONT][FONT="]Paris[/FONT]........
-A Texan bag-lover in Paris
