What to pack for Paris in Summer

There’s a reason why Paris is the fashion capital. Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton. Do those names ring a bell? They are all French designers that revolutionized fashion History and our way of dressing.

The art of Haute Couture is worshipped in Paris and fashion designers are constantly innovating the Fashion world. All fashion trends are born in Paris. You don’t exist in the Fashion industry until you get to exhibit collections during the Paris Fashion Week.

In Paris, we have the most famous and classy avenues and streets, such as the Avenue Champs-Élysées, the Rue de la Paix, the Place Vendôme, and charming neighborhoods like the Marais cannot be missed – smaller Parisian labels and vintage shops can be found where you can shop unique fashion gems. Those streets, avenues, and neighborhoods are the symbol of Paris elegance. “Dress to impress” should be Paris motto.

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Parisians have a one-of-a-kind sense of fashion. They are chic and elegant, no matter what season they’re in. In Summer, days can get really hot and stuffy! But mornings and nights can still get kind of cool. But you don’t need to worry, I am giving you some tips for you to be trendy and prepared for all eventualities! You can look cool, elegant, and still feel comfortable!

During your stay in Paris, you will be walking a lot because you want to discover the most of our beautiful city. Us, Parisians, do actually walk a lot ourselves on a daily basis. Going to work, meeting friends at a café in Saint Germain or in the Latin Quarter, shopping in the Marais neighborhood, attending an exhibition in the Centre Pompidou… We walk everywhere! Therefore, you might be wondering what to pack for Paris in Summer, to be both elegant and comfortable for walking in Paris and blend into the locals.

Choose flat over high…

If you do not want everyone to know you are a tourist, I advise you to avoid hiking shoes or flip-flops. Any leather flats will do just fine. Bring the ones you are comfortable with. Do not bring new ones, which may give you blisters. They can be any type, such as brogues, loafers, moccasins, low boots.

Keep in mind that bringing sneakers is a must. Street sneakers are my favorite, like Chuck Taylor’s Converse, Superga sneakers or even some slip-ons. It goes well with any kind of outfit, from denim shorts to printed dresses! You will look extremely cool and trendy, and it will still be very practical to walk the whole day! I would highly recommend to leave the sports socks at home and opt instead for low cut ones to reveal your ankle “à la parisienne” (Parisian style).

You may also bring some sports sneakers. Note that Parisians have learned to spot tourists a mile away! So if you want to fit into Parisian crowd and to avoid fulfilling the stereotypical tourist look, forget the funny packs and knee-high socks!

Some sandals for the warmer days – if possible, with a nice pedicure for the ladies – can be very wise to pack for Paris in summer. They can have a little wedge, which is actually healthier for your feet than none. My favorites to walk Paris are the Birkenstocks. They are definitely back in trend! They are the coolest and most comfortable sandals ever. If you wear them with a chic and simple outfit – NO socks allowed -, your style game will be on point!

Discover Walks turns your vacation into a celebration

Join our Parisian guides to discover Paris secret spots

Keep it simple!

Tees, tops, shirts, sweaters, and blouses are some of the items you have to pack for Paris in summer. If I were you, I would also bring some dresses, because you get a whole outfit in just one item which is great for space saving in your luggage. You can wear long ones on hot days you know you will walk a lot.

Wear short ones in days you know you will be relaxing, like doing a picnic at Jardin du Luxembourg because you might get a tan. Anything is adapted to the season as long as it is made from a nice and lightweight fabric, such as cotton, silk, or linen.

Just avoid clothes that are related to sports, for example, the fluorescent colored and huge brand printings ones. Remember that you are going for a walk, not for a run or for hiking.

Always as comfortable as possible!

Jeans are a must! Us, Parisians, do love them. With a good cut, an elegant top, and some nice shoes, jeans are effortlessly stylish. Chinos are also great. They are the perfect summer pants for both men and women. Chinos are light, solid and not too tight. Comfort is guaranteed. Ladies might want to bring skirts. I would suggest you pick mid-length or long ones. It is also preferable to wear loose ones, easier to handle a whole day.

Opt for darker colors. Avoid white and light colors, because you are likely to get dirty, on the subway or sitting on Paris benches.

Don’t get cold…

Be prepared for all eventualities, because the weather is unpredictable and can be chilly. Don’t forget to pack a lightweight jacket or a cotton cardigan for cooler days and nights. There is always a risk of unexpected rain in Paris so you should also bring an umbrella. If it rains, it will be a good opportunity for you to visit museums, so you can enjoy the most out of your stay. Hot days are perfect for outdoor walks and activities.

A classy yet practical bag

It should be large enough to fit all your stuff for the day. Comfortable enough to be carried around. Resistant enough not to be damaged. Classy enough to be stylish. Try to take only one to save space in your luggage. Choose a classic that will match all your outfits and can be worn both day and night.

A comfortable bag has to be light and practical. Choose cross bodybags or trendy and simple backpacks over shopper bags because you would get tired much quicker. Avoid rucksacks.

Less is more

You might want to pack some accessories for Paris. Bring your outfit to life with some not too expensive jewels. Some minimalists, subtle and simple ones will do just fine. But don’t bring too many jewels because I am sure you will leave Paris with much more items than when you arrive. Save space! You can pack a lightweight scarf, some sunglasses and a cool hat and you are all good!

Now that you know what to pack for Paris in Summer, you are all set to come! Are you ready to walk Paris with the locals? Join our tours and spend the greatest moments in Paris!