In the words of Audrey Hepburn, Paris is always a good idea — but what do you wear to visit the fashion capital of the world? If you’re headed to Paris this year (jealous!), we’re sharing our expert advice for channeling the iconic Parisian style, including attire guidance on how to dress + outfit ideas to wear for every season and occasion.
So whether you’re snacking on croissants at a sidewalk café or posing in front of the Eiffel Tower at night, this guide will help you look trés chic for your Paris getaway. Now all that’s left to do is brush up on your French….how do you say, Parisian It Girl??
Green Wedding Shoe’s product selections are curated and/or tested by the editorial team and GWS community. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. Please consider shopping through our links if you would like to support GWS!
The Must-Know Details + FAQs: How to Dress And What to Wear in Paris to Not Look Like a Tourist
There’s something about Parisian style that always looks so effortless — a certain je ne sais quoi, if you will! Their outfits are polished without trying too hard, with elevated basics and neutral pieces that you can wear from day to night anywhere in Paris.
To help you nail the French style on your next trip to Paris (without looking like a tourist), we’re breaking down the best styling tips, tricks, and Parisian outfit ideas that you can wear as you stroll along the Seine, go gallery hopping, and eat your weight in croissants. So grab your passport and your carry-on, and keep scrolling for our top tips!
What do average everyday Parisians wear?
We’ve all heard of the covetable “French girl style” — but what do Parisians actually wear on the streets of Paris? Unlike the movie and TV versions of Parisian style (read: berets, striped tops, and anything from Emily in Paris), everyday Parisians typically wear more simple and classic outfit ideas that will never go out of style. Think: neutral trench coats, crisp button-down shirts, unfussy slip dresses, and straight-leg jeans.
This “less is more” mindset also applies to their accessories and beauty. Most Parisians wear minimalist jewelry, comfortable shoes (a must for wandering the cobblestone streets of Paris!), and natural tousled hair, as if they just rolled out of bed looking effortlessly chic.
GWS Pro Tip! Since Paris fashion is all about a classic and elegant look, most Parisians will invest in timeless pieces rather than wearing the latest microtrends. If you truly want to dress like a Parisian, it’s better to have a few high-quality items than a closet full of fast fashion!
Quick Style Staples Packing List – What To Wear In Paris In Any Season
Arguably the hardest part about jetting off to Europe is deciding what to pack. You want to be comfy enough for a week of sightseeing, but cute enough for all your ~European getaway~ Insta posts. To help you find the perfect balance for your next trip, we’ve created a quick packing checklist for Paris, including Parisian style essentials and outfit ideas to wear for every season. Let’s get packing!
Spring and Summer Parisian Style Packing List – Attire Essentials
Is there anything as dreamy as Paris in the spring and summer? The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and everyone is sitting outside, sipping wine and wearing their best Paris inspired outfit ideas.
So to help you fit in with the Parisian It Girls, we’re breaking down all the essentials to pack and wear for your spring or summertime trip to Paris — including photo-worthy attire for your mandatory Eiffel Tower post!
- A lightweight dress: A simple and flowy dress is the perfect outfit to wear as you stroll the streets of Paris in the warmer months. For a Parisian inspired look, choose a timeless style that’ll take you from day to night, like a floral midi dress or a classic LBD.
- Chic blouses: Save the graphic tee for your staycation — if you want to dress like a true Parisian in Paris, wearing a chic blouse is a must. We especially love tops with romantic details (like this lacy beauty) and neutral color palettes, like white or black.
- Tailored shorts: While there’s nothing wrong with wearing denim shorts in Paris, tailored shorts — or tailored trousers, for chillier days — will give you a more iconic Parisian style. Plus, they’re comfortable enough for a day of Paris sightseeing and chic enough to wear at night!
- White sneakers: As all Parisians know, you WILL be getting your steps in as you explore Paris — so wear shoes that can keep up! Classic white sneakers such as Sambas or Vejas are the perfect balance of comfort and style.
- Cute and comfy flats: If you don’t want to wear sneakers with all of your Paris outfit ideas, a chic pair of ballet flats or sandals will also give you that effortless style that Parisians are known for. Stick to comfy designs and neutral colors that go with everything.
- A lightweight cardigan or blazer: Paris weather in the spring and summer can be notoriously unpredictable, so we suggest wearing a lightweight layer with your outfit ideas. Drape a striped cardigan over your shoulders, or throw on a chic oversized blazer. It’s practical and stylish!
- A crossbody bag: As you’re sightseeing around Paris, it’s best to wear a bag that keeps your hands free and your essentials safe. That’s where a chic crossbody comes in — choose a classic design that instantly elevates your outfit, like this black leather one.
- Sunglasses: Not only are sunglasses essential for protecting your eyes from the Paris sun, but they’re also a totally chic accessory to wear as you sip wine at outdoor cafés and stroll along the Seine. We love these oversized ones for an extra dose of glamour!
If you’re looking for chic and on-trend attire to wear to Paris, don’t miss our round-up of cute summer outfit ideas for every style and occasion!
Fall and Winter Parisian Style Packing List – Attire Essentials
As much as we love sunny days and warm afternoons in Paris, there’s something undeniably romantic about wandering around the City of Lights in the rain and snow. However, chilly days and colder nights make dressing for Paris a little trickier — which is why we’ve rounded up the must-have Parisian style essentials to pack and wear on your trip!
- A classic trench coat: A trench coat is the ultimate Parisian staple — it’s effortlessly chic, and you can wear it with just about any outfit in Paris. Plus, it’s the perfect outer layer to wear on cool mornings and rainy autumn afternoons (which Paris is known for!).
- Neutral sweaters: Paris in fall and winter is officially sweater weather, and this is when all the Parisians wear their best knit styles. Dress like the locals by wearing sweaters in neutral colors and classic prints, like this cute cardigan or this cashmere sweater — the striped pattern screams Paris!
- Chic pants: Colder weather means swapping your favorite midi dress or skirt for a pair of pants. Our favorites? Wide leg trousers. They’re versatile enough to wear anywhere in Paris, and you can easily dress them up or down for day and night.
- Stylish boots: It’s boot season, baby, and a pair of chic ankle boots or knee highs are a no brainer for your Parisian style. Pack a classic leather pair you can wear with all your Paris outfit ideas…bonus points if they have a comfortable heel!
- Comfortable loafers: While the sneakers we mentioned in the last section are still game for fall and winter in Paris, we also love these chunky loafers for when you want to wear something a little chicer with your outfit ideas — but still just as comfortable!
- A cozy scarf: Wearing a soft scarf is essential for staying warm on those cold Paris days, and as a bonus, it’s also super chic! Choose a statement style to take your Parisian outfits to the next level — this oversized scarf comes in tons of chic pastel hues!
- A stylish tote bag: When it comes to fall and winter in Paris, we like to wear larger tote bags rather than small crossbodies. They’re great for storing your hat, gloves, and scarf while you wander around the museums, lounge in the cafés, and shop around the Champs-Elysées.
- BONUS – A chic wool coat: If you’re headed to Paris in the middle of winter, you may need to wear something a little heavier than a simple trench. To channel that timeless Parisian style, we love a classic wool coat in neutral colors like camel, black, or navy. It’s fashionable AND functional!
GWS Pro Tip! Can you wear jeans in Paris? One word: yes! For the days you want something more casual, a sleek pair of straight-leg jeans is a must-have. Opt for a classic wash and classy style (aka, no rips or holes) for a Parisian inspired look. You can even dress them up with a chic button-down shirt, a classic blazer, or some cute heeled boots!
How To Wear It – Our Best Tips and Ideas for Styling Your Paris Outfits
So how do you recreate that impossibly chic Parisian style that’s all over your Pinterest board? If you want to wear outfits that look and feel quintessentially ~Paris~, we’ve rounded up our best styling tips and attire ideas below. Perfect for your next trip to Paris, and beyond!
- Mix casual and dressy pieces: Paris locals have mastered the art of high-low styling — aka, wearing a blend of casual basics with more dressy attire. Think: a blazer layered over a simple tee, or a silk midi skirt paired with a chunky sweater. Chic and versatile, these outfit ideas can easily transition from a day of café hopping to a night at a romantic Paris restaurant!
- Stick to the basics: To make the most out of your attire for a trip to Paris (especially if you’re only packing a carry-on), skip the microtrends and instead wear classic and neutral pieces that can be mixed and matched for endless outfit ideas. Kind of like creating your own Parisian capsule wardrobe!
- Take inspo from Paris fashion icons: Paris is one of the top fashion capitals of the world, and that means there is endless Parisian style inspo for your outfit ideas. From Audrey Hepburn’s Paris on-screen attire to Brigitte Bardot’s 1960s glam, use the city’s fashion history to choose what to wear. This way, you’ll always be photo-ready as you explore the city!
- Accessorize strategically: If you want to take your Paris outfit ideas to the next level, wear chic and stylish accessories that tie your entire look together. Remember, less is more, so be strategic with your accessories — simple gold hoops, statement sunglasses, or silky hair scarf can go a long way!
What Not To Wear in Paris – Tourist Faux Pas to Avoid
We get it: when you’re traveling to Paris, the last thing you want to do is wear something that screams “tourist.” Because don’t we all just want to be chic Parisians demolishing croissants next to the Eiffel Tower?! So to help you live out your best Parisian fantasy, here are a few style faux pas to avoid wearing on your next trip to Paris.
- Paris clichés: If you want to look like a true Parisian, ditch the French clichés (berets, we’re looking at you!) and instead wear simple and timeless pieces that exude elegance. While you want to channel Parisian style, you don’t want to look like you’re wearing a Paris costume!
- Bold logos and graphic tees: That “I ❤️ Paris” shirt may be a fun souvenir, but it’s not something to wear in Paris unless you want to look like a tourist. Similarly, bold logos and flashy attire will instantly look out of place in Paris — most Parisians prefer wearing quiet luxury over loud patterns!
- Overly casual attire: Paris is a city of elegant fashion, chic style, and amazing photo ops, so save the athleisure and sweatpants for the airplane. You’ll typically never see Paris locals wearing overly casual attire (such as gym clothes or hiking gear), so take this opportunity to dress up!
- Accessories that look out of place: If you don’t want to look like a tourist in Paris, there are few accessories most Parisians never wear with their everyday outfit ideas — such as large backpacks, flip flops, bright running shoes, and fanny packs. Instead, opt for stylish crossbodies, cute tote bags, chic white sneakers, or classic ballet flats!
Paris Outfit Ideas For Each Season (Including Attire Options For Day and Night)
Say “bonjour!” to these cute outfit ideas to wear in Paris! We’ve put together both day and night options for every season, so you can soak up every minute of your Paris getaway in style. Parisian style, to be specific!
Whether you’re touring Versailles in spring or celebrating Christmas in the city, these are the best outfits and attire ideas to wear for every adventure in the romantic city of Paris.
Parisian Style Outfit Ideas to Wear During Spring in Paris
The flowers are blossoming. The sun is shining. The wine is flowing. There’s nothing dreamier than spring in Paris — and we’ve found the best outfit ideas to wear to match the season!
Pro tip: When choosing what to wear in Paris in the springtime, it’s best to stay prepared for any weather, from hot days to rainy nights. Below, we’re breaking down two chic (and weather-ready) outfit ideas to wear to Paris this spring, so you can embrace your inner Parisian style!
1. Daytime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Spring
spring day outfit ideas to wear in Paris: striped button-down shirt | wide-leg jeans | casual white tee | Adidas Sambas | squiggle hair claw clip | gold hoop earrings | Longchamp tote bag
Spring is when Parisians shed their dark winter outfits and wear brighter styles as they soak up the Paris sunshine. Follow suit with this chic monochrome ‘fit, complete with a casual white tee, matching wide leg jeans, and a classic pair of white sneakers.
For a subtle pop of color, you also can’t go wrong with wearing an oversized striped button-down (a Paris style classic!) and some simple gold accessories. Trés chic!
And speaking of accessories, allll the Parisians wear a cute tote with their spring attire — this one is great for storing your umbrella as you pop in and out of the Paris museums!
2. Nighttime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Spring
spring night outfit ideas to wear in Paris: silk midi skirt | crewneck sweater | slingback block heels | woven shoulder bag | Rare Beauty lip oil
For Paris outfit ideas that’ll shine as bright as the Eiffel Tower at night, we LOVE wearing chic and silky attire. A silk midi skirt (or dress) will give you your main character moment as you dine at famous restaurants, while a classic sweater will keep you warm for your midnight stroll back to your hotel.
Elevate the look with a pair of short block heels (cute AND comfy enough for walking the cobblestone streets) and a neutral shoulder bag, which you can wear with ALL your outfits in Paris. Because you have to make your carry-on count, amiright?!
GWS Pro Tip! Looking for more packing tips for your trip to Paris? Not only is silk attire (like a cute midi dress or skirt) a chic outfit to wear in Paris, but it also won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. Win-win!
If you want to wear heels in Paris (but also don’t want to trip over the cobblestone streets), don’t miss our list of the best comfortable heels for every style!
Parisian Style Outfit Ideas to Wear During Summer in Paris
Whether you’re headed to Paris for the Summer Olympics or are spending the month of June strolling along the Seine, we’ve put together some cute Parisian outfits and attire ideas to help you beat the heat in style.
These are the outfits we would wear to picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens, or take a dinner cruise down the river, or live out our best Emily in Paris lives (iconic Instagram posts included). If you’re lucky enough to spend the summer in Paris, keep scrolling for the best outfit ideas to wear to stay cool — and look even cooler.
3. Daytime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Summer
summer day outfit ideas to wear in Paris: casual black dress | platform slides | leather tote bag | round sunglasses | gold linked necklace
Pay homage to Audrey Hepburn (a Parisian style aficionado) with this chic summer ‘fit! A breezy midi or maxi dress is one of the most fool-proof outfit ideas to wear in Paris in the summer, and we love how this one replicates the look of Audrey’s famous attire in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Swap the pearls for a classic gold necklace and the heels for a walkable pair of sandals, and you’re pretty much golden! Best paired with a butter croissant and a stroll to the Tiffany’s store in Paris.
GWS Pro Tip! Just like a tote bag was a Parisian style essential for the spring, it’s also a must for all your summer outfits in Paris. It’s perfect for holding water, suncreen, cameras, hats, and your cute summer sunglasses — while also adding a chic touch to your ensemble!
4. Nighttime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Summer
summer night outfit ideas to wear in Paris: linen mini dress | black block heels | leather shoulder bag | gold chain bracelet
This black mini is the perfect nighttime version of the previous midi dress, with a classy (and breathable) silhouette that you can wear all summer long in Paris.
And since an LBD is basically the French girl uniform, it’ll look good no matter where the night takes you, from sunset drinks at a sidewalk café to champagne toasts on top of the Eiffel Tower.
Wear it with equally chic and classic accessories (these block heels are to die for!) for an outfit that will have everyone mistaking you for a Paris local.
Parisian Style Outfit Ideas to Wear During Fall in Paris
As much as we love Paris in the spring and summer, there’s something undeniably cozy about the City of Lights in the fall — and as a bonus, this is also when you can wear all the best Parisian style fall outfit ideas!
With cooler weather, less tourists, and endless café au laits, fall is a great time to visit Paris. Plus, who doesn’t love fall fashion? The sweaters, the boots, the new trends….now all that’s missing is a warm coffee and a window seat at your favorite brasserie!
6. Daytime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Fall
fall day outfit ideas to wear in Paris: oversized knit cardigan | squareneck long sleeve shirt | black studded belt | wide leg jeans | Adidas Sambas | carabiner hoop earrings
With a blend of elevated basics, this fall outfit is perfect if you’re building a capsule wardrobe to wear for your entire Paris trip. All you need are a few versatile pieces (like a neutral white top and cute black jeans) plus some statement accessories for unlimited outfit potential.
For example, you can wear this Paris outfit with a cozy cardigan and trendy sneakers one day, then rewear it with ballet flats and a moto jacket the next. The options are truly endless!
7. Nighttime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Fall
fall night outfit ideas to wear in Paris: velvet trousers + matching jacket | casual knit top | woven crossbody bag | Gazelle sneakers | gold hoop earrings
When it comes to fall outfit ideas for Paris, it’s best to wear attire that blends fashion with function. You want to be chic, cozy, AND prepared for all weather scenarios — and this outfit checks all the boxes!
While most nighttime attire features a stylish dress, this fall outfit is perfect if you want to wear something warm but still fashion-forward for your nights out in Paris. It’s giving us major Parisian It Girl vibes, with a statement two-piece suit styled with cool and comfy sneakers. Obsessed!
Parisian Style Outfit Ideas to Wear During Winter in Paris
Spending hours wandering the Louvre. Seeing a show at the Moulin Rouge. Sipping hot chocolate at the holiday markets. Winter in Paris is, in one word, magical, and we’ve rounded up some equally magical outfit ideas to wear while you’re there!
Like other European cities, Paris can get pretty chilly in the winter months, so you’ll want to wear attire that keeps you warm, without sacrificing style. Keep scrolling for our favorite Parisian style outfit ideas to wear during your winter vacay to Paris!
8. Daytime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Winter
winter day outfit ideas to wear in Paris: chic wool coat | casual wide leg jeans | cotton crewneck sweater | paperclip gold chain necklace | leather crossbody bag | Veja sneakers
Winter in Paris is when cozy attire shines, so what better time to wear your favorite sweater?! Stay warm with this classic crewneck sweater + blue jeans outfit, complete with a practical crossbody bag and a Parisian style wool jacket. It’s comfy meets cute, and we are HERE for it!
Finish the look with trendy sneakers — great for getting your steps in at all the Paris museums — or wear these cute ankle boots instead for an outfit that easily transitions from day to night. Which brings us to our next winter outfit to wear in Paris…
9. Nighttime Parisian Style Outfit Ideas for Winter
winter night outfit ideas to wear in Paris: belted wool coat | black knit mini dress | sheer dot tights | knee-high boots | Dior lipstick | cute checker fanny pack
Cold weather doesn’t mean you can’t wear your favorite dress for a night on the town, and this Paris outfit is proof! Give a classic LBD a winter makeover with cute tights (you can even get these fleece-lined ones for extra warmth!), knee-high boots, and a stylish wool coat.
Add a swipe of red lipstick for a Parisian style touch, and don’t forget to wear your best Paris attitude to complete the look!
Look Stunning For Every Occasion With Our Favorite Outfit Idea Guides
Looking for more outfits and attire ideas to wear on your trip to Paris — and beyond? We’ve got you covered! To help you dress to impress for every occasion, we’ve put together cute outfit guides to use as inspiration, from our favorite brunch outfits to the best summer trends.
We’ve also created outfit and attire guides for all the viral fashion aesthetics on your mood board, including balletcore, coquettecore, and clean girl style — aka, the perfect ideas to wear in Paris!
Which of these outfit ideas are you planning to wear for your next trip to Paris? Is there any attire that you always wear when you visit Paris? Let us know in the comments below!
