cheaper chic.

the exchange rate is bad, and you're feeling blue. you want the latest louboutins, but they still cost beaucoup bucks. don't get mad, get shopping. here's a list of top designer outlet shops (up to 80 percent off) in and around the fashion capital of the world:

azzedine alaia stock.
the major markdowns are hidden in an atelier located in a closed door courtyard. translation? you really need a local to take you there. azzedine practically gives away last season's stunners. his can't-live-without-em shoes are 200 to 300 euros, (regularly 500 to 800), and short flare skirts are a steal at 250 euros. 18 rue de la verrerie. near rue de moussy, 4e. 01.42.72.19.19.


l'habilleur.
paul & joe, martine sitbon, patrick cox and antik batik have found a fashion afterlife here. men and women can tear through the racks of cashmere, cotton and chiffon goodies at 50 to 70 percent off. hit it in july and get another 50 percent off. free you say? just about. 44 rue poitou. near rue charlot, 3e. 01.48.87.77.12.


et vous stock.
this popular chain store has a outlet in the marais, offering 50 to 70 percent off of this year's and last season's stock. palm tree-motif, shoulder tie tank tops are only 15 euros (reg. 60). and low slung, cotton pants in khaki, taupe and cocoa sell for only 50 euros (reg.120). add it up and make a sultry summer ensemble for less than 100 euros. 15 rue de turbigo. near etienne marcel, 1er. 01.40.13.04.12.


zadig & voltaire.
they put the chic in casual chic with their signature slouchy sweatshirts and muted colored tees. now women, men and children can benefit from their bargains at the marais outlet shop. 22 rue de bourg tibourg. near rue st. croix, 4e. 01.44.59.39.62. www.zadig-et-voltaire.com


la piscine.
it's not a swimming pool but you can be sure you'll be diving in for their designer discounts. martin margiela, D&G, vivienne westwood, armani and chlöe for men and women are up to 70 percent off. 13 rue des francs-bourgeois. near rue mahler, 4e. 01.48.87.59.24.


salle beaubourg.
big bargains await you on a small street near the pompidou center. warning: it's a bit messy, but well worth getting your hands a little dirty for just cavalli, D&G, diesel and gianfranco ferré at up to 80 percent off. the stock changes weekly, so be there or be left without any versace. 5 rue du cloitre saint-marie. near rue beaubourg, 4e. no phone available.