Planning a trip to Paris this spring and unsure about what to wear? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. As a French native with years of experience living in Paris, I have a good idea of what you should pack for a spring visit to the City of Light. Spring is a great time to explore Paris, with fewer crowds and a mix of weather from cool and rainy to warm and sunny. In March, it can still be quite cold (between 5°C/41°F and 13°C/55°F), but by May, temperatures (around 20°C /68°F) are perfect for enjoying the city’s beautiful outdoor spaces. Expect rain during the season, but don’t let that dampen your spirits ;). Whether you need outfit ideas or just some packing inspiration, here’s what you should consider bringing to Paris in the spring.
Spring in Paris Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
Preparing for a spring visit to Paris means packing smartly to combine elegance with comfort. Your suitcase should include lightweight jackets, like a leather jacket or a trench coat, for rainy days. For the variable spring weather, bring layering options such as a cashmere sweater or a cardigan. Choose basic items in neutral shades, like beige pleated pants, light blue button-down shirts, and crisp white blouses, which can be mixed and matched to create timeless and stylish outfits. Also, comfortable footwear is essential for walking through Paris’s streets. Continue reading below for a detailed guide on what to wear in Paris during the spring, ensuring you look chic while embracing the city’s beauty.
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- A crisp white pussy-bow blouse — Rosaé Paris Le Théodore.
- A chic pair of sunglasses — Chloé Gayia sunglasses.
- An oversized light blue button-down shirt — Oversized shirts are the perfect trans-seasonal items to be paired with almost anything. Consider opting for this très chic Anine Bing Maxine shirt.
- A chic black leather jacket — Anine Bing Cara jacket.
- A menswear-inspired trench coat — This season, opt for an oversized silhouette, such as the stunning Anine Bing Randy maxi trench, for a fresher alternative to the classic trench.
- Beige pleated pants are the perfect bottoms for dressing a little more chic. This season, consider these Patou cotton-twill wide-leg pants.
- A cross-body bag — Polène Numéro Dix édition textured camel.
- Classic dark blue straight-leg jeans — Agolde Kye cropped straight-leg jeans.
- Slingback Mary Janes are the ideal shoes, offering both the height for a feminine allure and the comfort needed for walkability. I love these gorgeous Carel Paris Peche patent leather slingbacks.
- A chic timepiece — Gemmyo Prima watch.
- A pair of suede loafers is a chic yet comfortable flat-style footwear for Paris in spring. This season, I love these Roger Vivier Viv’ Rangers loafers in suede.
3 Chic Looks for Paris in Spring
What to Leave Behind
As you prepare for your Parisian adventure this spring, it’s just as essential to know what to leave behind as it is to know what to pack. Consider leaving sweatpants, lycra leggings, and any form of gym wear at home unless you have specific athletic activities planned during your stay. Parisian exploration calls for a touch more sophistication in your day-to-day attire. Also, while belt bags and backpacks may be practical, it’s better to opt for more secure alternatives such as a cross-body bag to keep your belongings safe from theft, especially in the busy Parisian métro.
Beachwear, including overly revealing dresses or shorts for women, flip-flops, and board shorts for men, don’t quite match the city’s urbane aesthetic. The combination of socks and sandals, red berets, and any attire loudly proclaiming “I love Paris” might also distance you from the local chic. Parisians have a penchant for classic colors over flashy hues and excessive prints, aiming for a more understated elegance. However, remember, the city celebrates individuality, so feel free to express yourself while considering these fashion tips.
Should you find your suitcase lacking upon arrival, fret not. Paris boasts some of the world’s premier shopping destinations, from renowned department stores to boutique gems, ensuring you’ll find the perfect additions to your wardrobe. For a deeper dive into embracing the Parisian style, I invite you to explore my guide on everyday Parisian fashion, offering insights into achieving that coveted local flair. Bon voyage!
