Average temperatures are 5 degrees Celsius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) during the winter, and 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) during summer. Clothing that can be easily layered is ideal for any time of the year, since nights are often cool during warm months, and sunny days can heat up even during winter. Spring is the driest season. Showers during all other seasons are frequent but short, and they often occur without warning. Significant winter snowfalls are rare, but not unheard of. Many Parisians carry umbrellas at all times, and many visitors during winter months pack boots in case of snow.
Business attire is appropriate if you are traveling for work. Dark-colored suits are common for men and women, and women also wear conservative, neutral-toned dresses. Sightseers should dress comfortably, since touring Paris involves a great deal of walking. It is important to keep in mind that the French tend to dress more formally than others for everyday activities. Khakis, button-down shirts, sundresses, designer jeans, skirts and sweaters are common on the streets of Paris during the day. Forgo tennis shoes for comfortable loafers or sandals. Dresses and jackets are appropriate for evening dining.
Paris is about fabric and fit. There are no sweatpants that are about fabric and fit. Same for shoes – those tennis shoes of yours don’t really match anything. They definitely won’t blend in at the bistros and discotheques you plan on hitting up!
Neutrals are always a safe bet. Black, tan, navy, brown, white, beige, grey – it’s all good. Not to mention packing mostly neutrals means you can combine everything in your bag for maximum outfit potential. Everything matches!
Some might describe Paris as “unisex” and that wouldn’t be far off from the truth. While women and men obviously differ in their styles, there are a lot of commonalities. They both can often be found in sweaters, jackets, and plain tees with slacks, dark denims and boots or sandals. The staples are all the same basic, understated pieces.
Scarves are all the rage – Parisians know the small addition can take a dull outfit and bring it all together. If you don’t have any that you like for what you’re packing, it’s not hard to find them lining the streets!
Paris is known as the fashion capital of the world. It is not uncommon to see people in daring, attention-grabbing outfits. If you’re looking for a place to go out dancing in spiky heels or a feather boa, Paris is an appropriate location. A wardrobe full of name brands might make you feel more at home among some of the world’s most fashionable, but it certainly isn’t essential. As long as your clothes are flattering, well taken care of and stylish, you will fit in among the Parisians.
You’ll see women wearing floor-length skirts, you’ll see men wearing leather jackets, you’ll see denim despite it’s poor rep. You’ll see hipsters, you’ll see boho-chic, but somehow it all still seems so French. Tune into the differences and pinpoint what appeals to you.
Men, it’s important to be well-groomed, but you by no means have to look like you’re ready to hit the runway. Keep the facial hair to a minimum and be aware if you’re rocking bedhead or not. Yep, it’s really that easy.
