VIBE

With the launch of just one iconic sweater in 1968 (the shrunken “Poor Boy,” to be exact), Sonia Rykiel turned the couture world on its head and brought edgy knitwear into the haute fashion inner circle for the first time. Though the ever-chic, retro-funky collections now branch well beyond knitwear, the highlight of each season’s line is still its signature soft sweaters. The beautiful two-floor flagship has an open-plan layout that allows for ideal viewing of the designer’s latest fashions.

USE A PURCHASE FROM HERE FOR

Kitting yourself out in stylish knits

WHY WE LIKE IT

We love stocking up on Rykiel’s creative twists on the wardrobe basics. Picks from recent seasons, like striped cardis and chunky sweater dresses, are the perfect mix of trendy and neutral. Perfect if you need easy-to-pack, goes-with-everything, and spot-on-chic wardrobe staples.

GOOD TO KNOW

Rykiel (who’s been awarded a Légion d’Honneur from the French government for her accomplishments) is quite a character. Besides her fashion designer exploits, she’s stolen the spotlight with activities as diverse as writing books (she’s penned everything from kid’s lit to dense fashion tomes) and modeling (her own clothes). Sonia Rykiel fashions are available from department stores Printemps, Galeries Lafayette, and Le Bon Marché.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Sonia by Sonia, 6th Arr. (Paris); Rykiel Enfant, 6th Arr. (Paris); Sonia Rykiel Shoes, 6th Arr. (Paris); boutiques in major cities around France and worldwide

CLOSEST COMPS

Agnès B (Paris); Nicole Farhi (London)

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