What to Wear in Paris (According to a Local)

Choosing what to wear in Paris can be intimidating. The French capital has a reputation as a world fashion capital, after all. But you don’t need to take multiple suitcases to dress for your trip, no matter what your Paris itinerary looks like. 

I’ve lived in Paris, France for ten years. I’ve scoped out local fashion across the seasons. Here’s what you need to know about what to wear on your trip to Paris.

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What Should I Wear In Paris?

When dressing for a trip to Paris, the following are suggestions for what to wear: 

• A comfortable pair of walking shoes
• A pair of dress shoes
• A light jacket or a blazer
• A light cardigan 
• 2-3 pairs of jeans, including a pair of dark-wash jeans
• A pair of non-jean pants
• 2-3 neutral t-shirts
• Statement accessories such as jewelry and scarves
• A classic raincoat like a trench
• A tailored dress

Think “classics” rather than “basics” when you’re packing for Paris. Parisians keep outfits fairly simple without falling into sloppiness. T-shirts and jeans are fine for most places, but you’ll feel more comfortable if they’re tailored and high-quality. Pack a few formal pieces like a blazer and dress for upscale Paris restaurants and events.

Select a neutral color palette. This will ensure that you can mix and match separates throughout your trip. It will also help you fit in, as Parisians tend to choose classic clothing pieces. Accessories like earrings or sunglasses are the way to stand out. 

Paris’s weather is fairly mild, but it can get chilly in the evenings year-round. Plan for rain no matter what time of year you’re coming. Paris skies can rain on a moment’s notice, and the right outfit can make all the difference.

What to Wear In Paris In the Summer 

Paris can get incredibly hot in the summer. However, even during heat waves, air conditioning and chilly evenings make layers necessary. Dress for heat, but plan for changing weather. Key items to pack include: 

• 2-3 sleeveless dresses
• 2-3 short-sleeved t-shirts or tank tops
• 2-3 pairs of lightweight pants
• A light sweater
• A pair of classic sunglasses
• A cross-body bag
• A pair of comfortable flats

Paris has experienced intense heat waves in recent summers, with temperatures consistently in the 90s or higher for a week or more. Prepare for these high temps by packing light pieces that are still formal enough for fancier occasions. Sundresses are a useful basic for women, as are non-denim pants, such as linen pants. 

Paris has a reputation for not having air conditioning. However, many museums, shops, and restaurants have installed AC in recent years. Bring a light sweater or jacket for air conditioning as well as cool evenings. 

Keep your feet cool with a pair of lightweight, comfortable flats if you’re unsure about what shoes to wear in Paris in the summer. Conversely, sandals are a bad idea. Your feet will get filthy and sandals don’t typically provide enough support for walking.

📚 Related Reading: Best Time to Visit Paris

What to Wear In Paris For Rain

Paris gets everything from drizzles to torrential downpours (and weather apps don’t always see it coming). But the weather doesn’t have to stop you from sightseeing. Look chic while staying prepared with these items: 

• A classic raincoat like a trench
• A pair of waterproof shoes
• A waterproof bag
• A travel umbrella

A waterproof trench coat will keep you dry in light rain. Meanwhile, it does double duty as a classic light jacket when it’s drier. Waterproof shoes and bags will keep you from ruining leather items. A portable travel umbrella is small enough to pack easily but provides extra protection in heavier rain.

What to Wear In Paris For Men

What to wear in Paris for men? Men should focus on a classic wardrobe with neutral yet tailored pieces. In particular, consider bringing: 

• Tailored jacket or sport coat
• Tie(s)
• 2-3 pairs of jeans
• 2-3 pairs of non-jean pants
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Dress shoes
• 2-3 t-shirts or polo shirts
• 2-3 collared shirts

Jeans and casual shirts with sneakers are perfect for everyday sightseeing. However, fancier restaurants may require a jacket and tie. Don’t forget to bring collared shirts and dress shoes to complete this type of outfit.

What to Wear In Paris For Sightseeing

Wondering what to wear in Paris to see the sights? Basics! One of the biggest mistakes I see visitors making in Paris is overdressing for sightseeing. Opt for simplicity and comfort if you’re spending long hours exploring things like museums, parks, and attractions.

• A pair of comfortable sneakers
• A pair of jeans 
• A sport bra
• A light cardigan 
• A cross-body bag

“Comfortable” doesn’t have to mean “sloppy.” Keep your practical outfit stylish with sleek sneakers, a trendy bag, and classic tailored jeans. You’ll be able to move around the city for hours without feeling out of place or underdressed except at the fanciest of establishments.

What to Wear In Paris To Dinner 

Don’t know what to wear in Paris for more formal dinners? Wear a dress or pantsuit to dinner at an upscale restaurant in Paris. Personalize your look with accessories:

• A black dress
• A pair of dress shoes
• Statement jewelry
• A small purse

Pack a basic, versatile dress that you can accessorize differently for multiple outfits. A lot of Parisians still opt for basic black dresses but personalize their look with layers, accessories, and shoes. 

Instead of packing pumps or high boots for Paris, consider bringing ballet flats in warmer weather or ankle boots in colder weather. These items are formal enough for even the fanciest restaurants but will provide you with more flexibility and packing space.

What to Wear In Paris For Nightlife 

Break out your trendy clothing and accessories when you go dancing. Paris nightlife is the time for shiny fabrics, high heels, and clutches: 

• Dress
• Comfortable heels
• Bright earrings
• Small purse

Parisians go all out when dressing for clubs. However, full faces of makeup aren’t common, nor is glittery jewelry. Instead, clothing is the statement. 

Outfits vary dramatically based on what club you’re going to, though. Check out a club’s social media accounts to get a sense of what patrons wear. The outer arrondissements (districts) of Paris tend to have more avant-garde clubs. The single-digit arrondissements have more classic establishments. 

Check out my guide on Paris neighborhoods to get a feel for the energy and vibe of each district.

What NOT to Wear In Paris

Sandals are a bad idea in Paris, as your feet will get dirty quickly. Flip-flops are an even worse idea. Your feet will get dirty, and you’ll stand out as a tourist. The French generally consider flip-flops to be pool and beach shoes—not shoes to wear in the city. 

You won’t see many shorts in Paris. Instead, men are likely to stick to jeans and pants throughout the year, while women will opt for dresses or lighter trousers in warmer weather. Wearing obvious branding, like logo t-shirts, isn’t common among Parisians either. 

Berets were once very popular in France, giving rise to the stereotype of French people in hats. However, these hats have not been in fashion for decades. I have only ever seen one older Frenchman wearing a beret; all others have been visitors.

Tips for Dressing for Paris

Prepare for Weather Changes

Paris weather can change dramatically in a single day. Look ahead at the weather forecast to determine the general range of temperatures when selecting what to wear in Paris. Then, plan for a range of ten degrees in either direction by bringing layers. 

Pack for Rain

It’s better to plan for some rain in Paris even if the forecast does not predict bad weather. Pack shoes that can get wet without damage as well as a small umbrella (umbrellas can be unreasonably expensive in Paris, particularly once it’s already raining).

Pack Neutrals

Parisians tend to focus on basic clothing items, including in terms of color. Packing neutrals will help you fit in and allow you to mix and match different pieces. In essence, you’ll create a capsule wardrobe that will make deciding what to wear in Paris easy. 

Avoid (Most) Clichés

A lot of “Parisian fashion tips” date back to the 1990s or earlier and haven’t been true in years. Berets have long gone out of fashion in Paris. Silk scarves are more likely to appear in hair than on necks. Trust your style, but select basics if you’re doubtful. 

Create a Capsule Wardrobe

Don’t try to bring a different outfit for every occasion. Instead, pack pieces you can mix and match. For example, a black blazer can go over a t-shirt for a business casual look or an Oxford shirt for a more formal look. Conversely, a red-striped blazer will limit you more in terms of what to wear in Paris. 

Shoes Matter

Bringing uncomfortable shoes can ruin your trip, but bringing only sneakers will keep you out of more formal places. Aim for two pairs of shoes, both comfortable: sneakers for everyday sightseeing and dress flats for more formal occasions. If you plan on going to trendy events, pick a trendy pair of sneakers for double duty or bring a third pair of shoes. 

Bags Matter

A huge shoulder tote may seem practical for the airplane, but that’s the last time you’ll want to use it. Instead, bring a cross-body bag with a secure clasp. This can accompany you everywhere from museums to bars while keeping your items safe in Paris. 

FAQs

What should I wear in Paris in spring?

Wear layers to Paris in spring, and plan for rain. The weather can change quickly, so bring a short-sleeved base layer. Then, add sweaters and jackets as necessary.

What should men wear in Paris?

Men should wear neutral-colored, well-tailored basics in Paris. These include dark jeans and t-shirts during the day and sports jackets and non-jean pants for more formal occasions.

How do people dress at night in Paris?

People dress depending on their style and where they’re going when it comes to dressing at night in Paris. Flashier, trendy clothing is common for clubs. Business casual apparel is better for fancy restaurants.

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I hope this guide helped you feel more prepared for what to wear in Paris! At the end of the day, Paris fashion is all about tailored, yet low-key clothing. Read my guide on where to stay in Paris next, to help you keep planning your trip to the City of Light.