February 10, 2012

QUELLE BELLE VELO!

Nothing like some uber-stylish retail inspiration (note, ahem, I did not say ‘therapy’) to warm the cockles on these sub-zero temperature days, and we’ve been lucky enough to be able to visit the Parisian concept store, Merci, during a quick trip to Paris.

Despite opening in 2009, Merci is still talk of the town in the City of Light for its stunning industrial interior, continuously changing layout and displays and quick turnover of carefully curated fashion and interior products in its collection. Oh – and they have not one, but THREE lovely cafes.

We were really keen to visit Merci again to see the new My Bike installation… which was evident throughout the store, with some fantastic bike-oriented visual displays. Tom Dixon’s enormous 72 bulb bike wheel chandelier was a highlight (pun totally intended) and we loved the merchandising of suspended bikes, bike bells, baskets and Brooks products galore. There were some real visual treats in the form of vintage Japanese road bikes, a Pederson and a deconstructed bicycle installation. Here are some pics…