 Boucicaut worked in the family shop, then, at the age of 18, as a street vendor selling fabrics.In 1834 he moved to Paris and went to work in a novelty store on rue de Bac, the Petit Saint-Thomas, which sold women's clothing, hats, fabrics and other items.He began as a salesperson of shawls, but because of his diligence was soon promoted to head of the department.