A day in the life of Fabien Merdinian
Photos Victoria Paternò
Words Matthieu Morge-Zucconi
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TheNextDoor Paris' manager talks moustache, cologne, and flavoured toothpicks.
In 2019, Fabien Merdinian left cult fashion boutique The Next Door Paris to become a wardrobe stylist in film, then became a barista in 2023. After years at Colette, it’s a new adventure. Here he shares his journey through Parisian retail, his daily routines and (of course) some details into his favorite grooming products. Let’s get started!
Hello Fabien, can you introduce yourself and tell us more about your background?
My name is Fabien, I’m 46. I went to a film school. Back then, I didn’t really like it that much, but I understand the point of it now. I started working sales in the suburbs, in a sports shop. In three years’ time, I’d learnt everything I needed about the job. I then went on to work at Colette, where I stayed for 13 years. Before starting to work there, I’d maybe set foot in the shop twice, and I really didn’t think that it was my type of shop, and I definitely never would have imagined working there. I started working in Colette’s bookshop, and I then moved on to the toys. It was a great place to grow and evolve. As soon as you showed interest in a topic, you were given access to it. That’s how I moved to the hi-tech department, and later, when they needed it, I became the buyer for glasses and accessories. When Colette closed, we were offered to stay on with Saint Laurent, which would be taking over the space. I declined, and I’ve just finished my sabbatical.
So, on top of being a salesperson, you learnt how to manage purchasing.
Exactly. Glasses have become a passion of mine. When I started, Colette sold 6 different brands, and at the end, there were 30 or 40! I’ve always tried to approach the watch and glasses markets with as much hindsight as possible, but always listened to the stakeholders I met, went to all the trade shows, and met the people who made the products. I learnt everything I could!
So, what do you have for breakfast?
I love coffee, and I’m lucky enough not to need it to function like a normal human being, so I really drink it for pleasure. Back when I worked at Colette, I would go to Téléscope, in the 2nd arrondissement, they do great coffee. I really enjoy going out for my breakfast, but if I’m with my son, it’s usually bacon and eggs.
What’s your grooming routine like?
Working at Colette exposed me to quite a few brands such as Baxter of California and Penhaligon’s. I use the Horace face cleanser, either under the shower or before I shave. When I shower, I’ll use a Horace shower gel or a Baxter soap bar. I currently have a mustache. It’s funny because I recently found pictures of my uncles who all had mustaches, and I think I’m returning to what I saw as a child. I’ve also been thinking a lot about my father and his shave brush, even if I haven’t got around to using one myself yet. For a long time my grooming products - shave cream, aftershave, shower gel and shampoo - were very basic. Discovering Horace opened my eyes to a world of moisturizers that leave no residue, and that’s great. I try to keep an open mind, and when I like a brand, I tend to collect their products!
What do you use on your hair?
That’s an easy one: the Horace shampoo for normal to oily hair, and nothing else. I have a head full of hair, and I’m currently letting it grow out. I have phases. I had a buzzcut for a while, first because it was trendy, and then it was simply more practical. I can decide to cut it on a whim, I’m quite radical when it comes to my hair. I’m sort of in between hairdos right now, hence the beanie! I used to go to the hairdressers every two weeks. If I could, I’d go to the barbershop every 2-3 days. I think it’s a good thing when specific trades exist to do specific tasks, and always finding some “me time” is crucial.
What about your perfume?
I like colognes. It ties in to what I was telling you earlier about looking for familiar things from my childhood. I like “Cologne Nocturne” by Le Galion. Before that I wore a lot of Le Labo, and then “Hinoki” by Comme des Garçons. I really like perfume. I’ve even tried wearing some before going to bed. It’s quite pleasant, it has a very fresh feel to it!
Do you practice any sports?
I played basketball for a very long time. I’d been playing for 11 years when I stopped after my son was born. I try to keep an eye on what’s going on, and I started playing again 2 or 3 years back, but it simply wasn’t the same anymore, I took so long to recover. When the weather allows it, I’ll ride my bike, sometimes going from my home in the suburbs to Paris. I have a good bike, so I like to use it! When I’m not on my bike, I try to walk as much as possible. When you have the time to do so, I think it’s the best way of getting around. I enjoy getting lost in the city!
