While visiting Paris and Amsterdam this April, I shopped until I dropped and I have zero regrets. I've honestly never shopped this much on a trip, but then again, I've rarely had the luxury of slowing down and actually living in a city rather than rushing from one landmark to the next. If you're curious about our full itinerary, you can find it here.

Tips for shopping smart in Europe

Before I get into the haul, here are a few things that made the experience so much smoother:

Know what you're looking for. I went through my closet beforehand and made a list of pieces that would round out my wardrobe. Staying focused kept me from impulse-buying things I didn't need… mostly.
Map out your stores in advance. I researched which shops carried what I was after and browsed their websites ahead of time to make sure it was worth a visit.
Bring your passport for VAT refunds. Present it at checkout and you'll receive the paperwork needed to reclaim the taxes on your purchases; it adds up fast.

Now, onto the good stuff.

Bobbies

I picked up the Amel in Cherry Gloss, a flat, polished shoe with an instant pop of color. They retail for $275 USD in the U.S.; I paid $208.28 in Paris.

I haven't worn them yet, but I'm already excited about how effortlessly they'll brighten up an outfit. One heads-up: Bobbies is hugely popular in France, and stock moves fast; they didn't have my size in many styles.

Jonak

I left Paris with two pairs from Jonak: classic penny loafers in black glazed leather, and très chic low-heeled mules in black pleated patent leather. Together I paid $317.71 USD, versus $420 USD stateside.

I haven't worn the mules yet, but the loafers have already been broken in and I mean that as the highest compliment. I have big and wide feet for my size (I'm 5'1" and wear a size 8 or 9), so for a structured shoe, I was genuinely surprised by how quickly they softened up and how comfortable they are for walking.

Ateliers Auguste

I spotted this mini Marly bag in black box leather in a Paris window and knew immediately it was coming home with me. I paid $617.77 USD, versus $670 USD in the U.S.

Pourchet

This everyday purse in black came home with me for $358.89 USD (compared to $420 USD in the U.S.). Funny enough, I had a moment of buyer's remorse while still in Europe, but the second I got home and started using it, I fell completely in love. It's the perfect errand bag: relaxed, roomy, and goes with everything.

Jacques Genin

Everything in this Parisian chocolate shop is extraordinary, the gummies, the caramels, the chocolate. We devoured mixed bags on the spot, and I brought home two bars of milk chocolate (one plain, one with pistachio). My only regret? Not buying more. Shipping to the U.S. runs $47.73, so load up while you're there.

Nous Sommes Labels

This was a wonderful find in Amsterdam, a shop I stumbled into and could have easily spent a fortune in. I showed restraint and left with just this brown baseball hat for $47.34 USD. They don't ship to the U.S., so it's truly a "you had to be there" piece.

Almost Summer

This "Do Nothing Club" crewneck sweatshirt from Amsterdam might be my most-worn purchase already. Incredibly soft, organic cotton, and the slogan across the back feels deeply on-brand for a trip built around slowing down. It was $69.17 USD and like Nous Sommes Labels, they don't ship to the States, so snag it in person if you can.

I also came home with art from Slow Gallery in Paris for my husband, plus an assortment of pins, keychains, and little finds from museum gift shops. Genuinely, don't overlook those, some of my favorite small souvenirs came from them.

The verdict

All in, I saved roughly $270 USD across my clothing and accessory purchases simply by buying them in Europe rather than waiting to shop at home, and that's before factoring in any VAT refunds. But beyond the savings, there's something about discovering a brand in its home city, shopping at its flagship store, and carrying it back yourself that makes each piece feel a little more intentional. If you're heading to Paris or Amsterdam, I hope this gives you a solid starting point. Happy shopping and maybe pack a slightly bigger suitcase than you think you need!

Europe shopping haul: What I bought in Paris & Amsterdam (with links and prices)