I'm Spending the Summer in Paris, and I Packed These 15 Fashion Staples to Blend in With the Locals, From $29

Travel + Leisure

17 hours ago

I'm currently spending a dreamy summer living in Paris, which has consisted of reading in Jardin du Luxembourg, eating a baguette a day, and meeting up with fellow creatives in the city. I've heard a few different topics on everyone's lips: the heatwaves, swimming in the Seine, and how the French government is cracking down on fast fashion brands like Shein and Temu.
France's anti-fast-fashion ethos is something reflected on the streets too—you won't see many French women sporting quick trends and synthetic fabrics. Instead, they often mix vintage pieces with timeless silhouettes, even in the summer. So, in order not to stand out as a tourist, I packed versatile, long-lasting pieces in the same ethos, emulating France's quality-over-quantity mentality.
As I've been exploring the city, I've taken note of the styles I see on the diverse, individualist Parisian women. I've also given more thought to the functionality of my own outfits, as I've been dressing for all-day walking and Paris' ever-changing summer weather. Whether you're headed to the City of Light this summer or want to infuse some French-inspired fashion into your wardrobe, here are the pieces I've been spotting all over Paris that are stylish and functional for long, hot summer days.
A loose and flowing maxi skirt is a comfortable all-day option for when it's hot outside, as it allows air to flow around the legs (as opposed to trousers, pants, or jeans). Look for a midi or maxi length for ultimate functionality, so you can hop on a bike and ride comfortably if you need to. Some hues of this tiered skirt are also up to 40 percent off right now. And major bonus points go to the pockets on both sides.
Paris summer days can be sunny, but they can also be rainy and muddy. If it's a wet day in Paris, you don't want to be caught wearing white. There's a lot of opportunity to pick up stains, from sitting on the Metro, bike seats, bench seats, wet cafe seats, or the park grass of Place de Voges. Also, look for pants that are slightly cropped or fall at ankle height, so your hem doesn't drag in puddles and pick up moisture. These Quince ponte pants are a great option, available in a variety of darker hues that won't attract stains. The wide-leg cropped look is stylish and will allow for plenty of versatility throughout your day.
On Paris' hottest days, shorts will be the most comfortable. Instead of wearing cut-offs or bike shorts, however, pack a pair of longer, tailored shorts. Pair them with a tucked-in tank and a belt, and you've got an outfit that feels pulled together and ready for apéro at a nice bistro or brasserie. These Open Edit pleated shorts have the added bonus of being made from a comfortable linen blend, so they'll also help keep you cool.
Paris is a city best enjoyed ambling on foot, which means footwear may be your most important choice. Make sure you test your shoes before your trip so you know they don't rub and give you blisters. Look for comfortable walking sandals, preferably a pair that's podiatrist-endorsed or even podiatrist- designed , like these stylish Frankie4 pair that I've been wearing for long days traversing the arrondissements. These Vivaia sandals are a supportive option too, and even have the stamp of approval from Travel + Leisure as the best comfortable walking sandal, after testing over 100 pairs.
Paris is large, and if you're trying to navigate between landmarks, you'll probably be consulting your phone's map to discern which way to turn. Instead of taking your phone in and out of your purse or storing it in your back pocket (both of which may mark you as a tourist and could increase the opportunity for theft), keep your phone in a dedicated crossbody bag or use a phone crossbody strap. Mageasy has an entire line of crossbody lanyards and cases, designed with extra features like built-in wallets and AirPod hooks. But this Satechi crossbody lanyard has a built-in USB-C quick charge cable, so you'll never walk out the door forgetting the correct charging cord again. $189 at Patricianashdesigns.com
When I leave my apartment in Paris for the day, it's likely I won't be back until the evening, so I need a bag that can hold everything I need for the day (my iPad, notebook, camera, water bottle, deodorant, a change of workout clothes, etc). It also needs to have extra room in case I stop at the market to pick up a few items on my way home. And, I can't have a bulky tote that's a nuisance to carry around. It's a tall order for a bag, but I've been using and loving this Patricia Nash travel tote. It has two different carrying styles and a staggering amount of pockets that keep everything in its place. It's also a water-resistant coated linen-cotton blend—perfect to protect my tech in a spontaneous Paris rain shower. You could also try a simple leather tote if you're after a more understated design, or the classic French Longchamp Le Pliage Tote that is known for its spacious interior.
The best dress to pack for Paris is one that can go from day to night with just a few accessory changes. I have a rule to never pack anything I'll only wear once on a trip. So when I'm choosing which dress to bring, it needs to be a wardrobe chameleon. I look for a midi to maxi length, pockets, capped sleeves, a fabric that is breathable, and a color that won't easily collect stains. I love this Treasure & Bond Puff Sleeve Midi Dress because of its lightweight linen material, simple yet elevated style, and pockets for convenience. Its off-white shade might still be a stain magnet, so you may want to opt for a patterned or darker dress if you're prone to picking up mess.
Yes, Paris has had heat waves and hot days this summer. But more often than high heat, I've encountered temperate days with clouds and a nice breeze. Most days, I'm comfortable wearing jeans and a tank top. In the evenings or after a rain, the air can even have a bit of a chill, so always bring a light layer, like a water-resistant jacket or a shirt-jacket, if you plan on sitting out and sidewalk dining.
Even in the summer, scarves still make an appearance. A simple square silk scarf can go a long way in mixing up a simple carry-on capsule wardrobe. Lightweight silk scarves are a hero accessory, and I'm constantly taking note of all the innovative ways I see French women styling them, including wearing them as belts, over skirts, as tops, and accessorized in hair. Plus, because silk is a natural fabric, it'll dry quickly, ideal for those intermittent Paris showers. Make sure your scarf is actually silk, however, and not a synthetic satin. This Lilysilk scarf is made from silk charmeuse, but a few more budget-friendly options are linked below if you're after the look more than the functionality.
Great walking sandals are essential for summer, but sneakers are the primary shoe of choice I see around Paris. The high-low mix of sneakers with a dress or midi skirt feels refreshingly unfussy. Just because you're wearing sneakers, it doesn't mean the rest of your outfit has to be full athleisure (and you don't often see leggings around Paris unless you're explicitly working out). Pair your favorite dress with casual sneakers, like the classic Veja Campo shoes, for a day of exploring. These sneakers have a low profile, so they'll match anything in your suitcase, yet they offer cushioning to support your feet for a long day of walking. Later, simply change into sandals or heels if you'd like to switch up your look for an evening out.
After getting caught in a downpour watching the Tour de France peloton roll through Paris, I'll never leave my apartment without a raincoat in my bag again, even if the forecast predicts just clouds. Look for a raincoat that hits at the thigh and has a hood for the most coverage, like this London Fog trench that has a water-repellent shell and hood (and it's $100 off). This hooded Levi's water-resistant jacket is another great option that will keep you dry without adding an overly bulky top layer.
This summer, the Seine opened up to swimming for the first time in 100 years. Whether you're braving a swim in the river yourself or not, you can still get good use out of packing a swimsuit to visit Paris. A versatile one-piece bathing suit can double as a sleek bodysuit paired with palazzo pants or a skirt. This quick-dry swimsuit from Lands' End will help wick away sweat and moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable on a hot summer day. Or, try a patterned option if you have solid bottoms to match it with.
Loafers are still a popular shoe in Paris, even in the summer. But instead of thick socks, I'm seeing lighter, sheer socks worn with loafers and even ballet flats as a playful way to prevent blisters and add color and seasonal style to an outfit, without adding extra insulation. This six-pack of socks is made with recycled nylon that's thin, so your feet won't sweat, yet each pair has cushioned soles for a little extra comfort. $140 $85 at Banana Republic
Instead of relying on T-shirts, which can show armpit stains and sweat, I love the look of a button-down vest worn as a top. Pair this Banana Republic vest with high-waisted trousers (there's a matching pair available if you like the look of a two-piece set) or tailored shorts, and you've got a look that feels polished and practical for summer heat. Plus, the linen material will help keep you cool, and it's an effortlessly chic look that can take you from day to night.
A layering item is great to have in Paris in the summer when the temperature can drop after rain or in the evening. A lightweight cotton button-down can be an easy top layer to have on hand, as you can wear it draped over a T-shirt or tank and paired with shorts, pants, or a skirt. These striped options provide a little added flair.
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