Chicline.com has sifted through hundreds of web sites to separate the wheat from the chaff and you’ll find the fruit of our labor under “Paris Shopping > Online Guides… > Private Sales, Events Sales”.

Most of the sites require membership so you’ll have to find a benevolent sponsor who will let you into the “inner circle” of good deals. You’ll then receive regular invitations to participate in fleeting sales events lasting from one to three days. Most of them offer general merchandise but, occasionally, you’ll come across specialized sites for fashion, travel, gastronomy (mostly wine) or high-tech products.

A couple of things you should know about these sites: first of all become familiar with current prices of the items you’re looking for. Do your web homework, then make up your mind fast as stocks are often very limited and he/she who hesitates is often lost. On the flip side the system is great for impulse buyers giving them a chance to buy high quality stuff they don’t really need!