I’ve got a girls’ weekend away to Paris booked for the end of this month and I’ve never been so excited to plan a mini holiday capsule wardrobe of Paris outfits.
Whether I’m munching all the pastries, mooching around Le Marais, strolling through galleries and (of course) eating lots of amazing food, I want to pick outfits that I’ll feel confident in all day long, with some added Parisian twists.
There’s something about Parisian style that’s unmistakably chic. It’s regarded as the fashion capital of the world, after all. But this fashion “je ne sais quoi” is exactly that – difficult to define. It’s an effortlessness and a care-free nonchalance, all underpinned by a knowing sense of luxury that Parisians just get so right.
Putting together a wardrobe fit for a Parisian getaway, however, doesn’t need a luxury price tag.
With a bit of considered curation beforehand you can create looks that’ll work for day, evening, and your very own Midnight in Paris moment.
My packing tips
For the minimalist dressers it’s all about sticking to a monochrome palette. The LBD is timeless for a reason, and so from day to night black dresses or stylish co-ords are always a chic option.
But don’t be afraid to add in some print, either. Whether you’re off on a spring mini break or a winter weekend away, ruffled blouses and broderie tops tucked into jeans with an oversized blazer layered on top always work well.
Or mix and match stylish midi dresses with chunky sandals in summer, or cropped jackets and boots on colder days.
Whatever you chose, think about your fabrics. Stick to soft natural textures by day and reserving anything shimmery for evening.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed it may help to streamline your colour palette, centering around a few main colours. It might be that you choose classic neutrals, navys and khakis. Or, to make a bold statement à la Emily in Paris, mix in brighter shades like a pop of pink or red.
Try out the easy formula below and packing for Paris will be a piece of cake!
Start with a great pair of jeans
A staple piece for short trips is a flattering pair of jeans, from trusty mom jeans, to straight leg styles or flares (for some extra flair!)
In the height of summer, switch in a pair of denim shorts. Don’t pick hot pants – make sure they’ve got enough length for strolling around a city like the ones below.
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Tuck in a pretty top
Tuck – or French tuck (just the front section) – a tee or blouse into a pair of good quality jeans for ultimate low-key chicness.
Personally, I love a broderie blouse, but if soft girl summer isn’t your vibe then keep it simple with a timeless Breton top, a striped shirt, or even the best white t-shirt of all time.
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Style up a day dress
If you’d feel comfier in something looser than jeans for meandering round Parisian streets, then you can’t go wrong with stylish dresses, especially flattering midis.
From ditsy floral dresses to simple black linen styles, keep your agenda and the weather forecast in mind, making sure you pick something that’s both comfy and practical as well as stylish.
Whether it’s a long sleeve belted dress in winter with a pair of knee high boots, or a loose fitting slip dress in summer with strappy sandals.
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Take the perfect layer
A jacket is crucial for a city break, as you can never quite predict when a chill might spring up, from grabbing a croissant in the morning to sitting outside for dinner in the evenings.
For transitional seasons, (and for making an extra statement) I love a bold checked blazer or an embroidered jacket.
A trench coat will never fail to bring a look together on cooler days and for extra cold weather it’s got to be a super cosy wrap around wool coat.
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Match shoes to your Paris outfits
Every time I’ve been to Paris it feels as though I’ve walked for miles. There’s just so much to see!
So with thousands of steps a day, you want to make sure your shoes are super comfy. For extra polish wear in a pair of loafers, or for a more laidback look stick to trainers and stompy boots.
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Include a day to night look
Some days you don’t know where you’ll end up – maybe you’re exploring one side of town and instead of diverting back to your hotel you decide to stick it out there and go straight for dinner.
For times like like these, a day to night look is very useful. One option is to elevate your jeans and top with a smarter jacket (such as a velvet blazer) which will work for both day and night. Otherwise, a smart dress or satin co-ord will transition perfectly.
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A statement evening dress
It’s always worth having an evening outfit up your sleeve that’s extra special. Whether you’re out dancing the night away or sipping a glass of red somewhere cosy. You’re on holiday after all!
For a sleek Parisian evening look, stick to black – there are a whole host of great LBDs on the high street right now.
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Add some glam with shoes for the evening
When it comes to dressing up for evening, elevate your look with some heeled boots, understated mules, (or for extra sparkle) some embellished party shoes.
If heels are a definite NO after all your exploring, stick to your loafers. Pair them with an LBD and black tights.
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