5 Surprisingly Easy Tips for What to Wear in Paris

Paris. The city of lights. And love…

And the city where you DON’T want to look like a tourist.

More than any place in Europe that I’ve visited thus far, Paris is known for its style, and you want to fit in. Or at least not stand out for negative reasons.

(There is actually a wide range of fashion in the city, and no one will embarrass you for being out-of-place.)

But follow these easy tips and you will feel like a real Parisian while you stroll the Left Bank and wander through the d’Orsay. And you won’t feel embarrassed by your outfit.

1.      Choose Neutrals. And Black.

Parisians like to dress simply but with a classic flare. Wear neutral and black to really fit into the local scene. Season-appropriate colors are still ok, but know that bright, look-at-me shades are never in style.

Please, no neon, obnoxious colors or ugly prints!

Instead, try a casual dress in a jewel tone or a black top with interesting details.

What NOT to wear: Stay away from loud prints and colors. Save your big florals for Hawaii.

2.      Wear Comfy Shoes

Ok, now for a contradiction. You thought I was going to say you had to wear dressy (uncomfortable) shoes in Paris. Nope! Because so many people walk a lot in Paris, and the cobblestones can make for uneven, dangerous surfaces, comfortable shoes are entirely appropriate.

In fall and winter, bring low-heeled booties or tall boots. In spring, pack flats such as ballet slippers (look for a supportive version) or stylish sneakers (not running shoes). In warmer weather, you can wear sandals.

What NOT to wear: Flip flops are only reserved for the beach in France. Don’t wear them other places!

3.      Bring an Outer Layer

Paris can be drafty at any time, and downright cold in the winter months. Bring a warm cardigan for spring, a trench coat for fall and a packable down jacket for winter. A light cardigan is always in style and can be used as an underlayer in winter.

Wool sounds cozy, but it will take up too much space and weight in your suitcase.

What NOT to wear: Outerwear that clashes with your wardrobe or heavy wool that you have to lug around.

4.      Add a Scarf

Is there anything more Parisian than a beautiful scarf? Supposedly women (and men) in France can wear a scarf in a dozen different ways. Year-round, a scarf will make you look more like a local! Choose thicker fabrics, such as wool, for winter. And a gauzy cotton version will keep your shoulders warm on breezy summer evenings.

I would bring at least one scarf and buy one (or two!) in Paris as a souvenir from your trip.

What NOT to wear: Go lighter than heavier. It’s ok to wind a cotton scarf around your neck multiple times in winter. But a chunky knit scarf is out of place in sunny weather.

5.      Keep Your Makeup and Jewelry Simple

French style is about elegance and refinement. Casual beauty. Don’t pile on the makeup or jewelry when visiting the City of Lights. Now is not the time for intense lipsticks, heavy contouring or spider-like lashes. And save your glitzy, giant baubles for other occasions.

It is the perfect time for pearl earrings, diamond studs and demure necklaces. (I always bring fake jewelry when traveling.) And lighter makeup in natural shades.

What NOT to wear:  Large jewelry or too many pieces at once. Or heavy makeup.

Bonus Tips!

DO wear leggings, but do so appropriately, such as with long top or jacket.

DO bring a crossbody or messenger bag to safely hold your necessities in crowds.

DO use a secret money holder under your clothes for extra cash and an emergency credit card.

DO NOT wear head-to-toe athletic gear. Parisians do not live in their yoga pants as we do in the U.S.

DO NOT bring a backpack. Pick pocketers behind you will have easy access, and wearing it on your front just looks odd.

DO NOT wear beach clothes anywhere besides the beach. Even shorts are reserved for the very hottest of days. Wear more skirts, dresses and light capris in summer than shorts.

But always remember that your confidence is what makes you beautiful. Your surety and sense of self will be your perfect je ne sais quoi. Do a little planning before you pack, and then just go with it. If you need help with How to Pack Toiletries in a Carry-On, be sure to read this post!

You will love the beauty and style in Paris, and probably come home with a little inspiration for your own life. Happy packing!