Les soldes: France’s famous sales and what you need to know

Recently, I have had a lot of people ask me what are les soldes (timely as they're currently en cours until February 20) – and what they are is amazing. Les soldes in French means sales, as in sales that take place twice a year with super steep, shopping-inducing discounts. It’s the time when French retailers clear out inventory for incoming items, and consumers stock up on both staple and treat yourself, big-ticket items alike. 

What of it?
The soldes are the only time of the year that shops are legally authorized to sell merchandise at a loss, and the French commercial code fixes strict guidelines. For instance, discounted goods must have already been in the store for at least one month and all sale items must be clearly marked with both the regular and discounted prices plainly visible. 

Dates
The dates are determined by the French government but generally take place in January and February (soldes d'hiver) and June, July and August (soldes d'été). Typically, the winter sales begin the second Wednesday of January and the summer sales begin the fourth Wednesday of of June. You can visit the Ministry of Economy's website to stay informed of any date changes (note, it's in French). Dates may vary by region but not drastically. Currently, the soldes last six weeks. However, starting in 2019 they will only last four weeks, according to an article in Les Echos, a French financial news outlet. The idea is that reducing the amount of time will create more hype. 

Tip: If you do plan on crossing the Atlantic for the soldes, note that flights and hotels are less expensive in January and February compared to June or July when tourist season picks up in France and across Europe.

Best deals
Prices drop week by week, meaning you’ll score the biggest discounts at the end. But beware, as costs decrease so does the size selection. In the beginning, you can anticipate standard cuts (20%, 30%, 40%). After the first ten days, prices will reduce to around 50%, for the second markdown (deuxième démarque). After three weeks comes the third markdown, which is often the last, where discounts will reach 50% on upward. 

Bonus: If you’re not a resident of France, certain stores will waive the Value Added Tax (VAT) – which is 20% – if you spend a certain amount (to name a few...BHV, Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, and Le Bon Marché). 

Save the date! 
The next soldes coming up will take place Summer 2018, starting Wednesday, June 27 at 8:00 a.m. and lasting until Tuesday, August 7 until the end of the day. 

P.S. 
As financial fraud increases, banks and credit card companies block unusual transactions more readily. Make to sure to notify your bank or credit card company if you plan on doing any heavy shopping so they don't block your card.