If you’re looking for what to wear in Paris in the summer, look no further. I love a Parisian summer. The days are long and the temperatures are relatively mild, so plan plenty of picnics in gardens and strolls along the River Seine to view the Eiffel Tower at night. And although it can rain in Paris in summer, it’s such a beautiful city that I’m never bothered by it, and you can still get out of your hotel room and enjoy it.
However, Paris weather in the summer isn’t always super hot and sunny. The weather in June greatly differs than July and August, with gloomy mornings and more mild temperatures where you may need to wear a light layer or trench coat.
Here’s everything you need to know about what to wear in Paris in the summer.
What to Wear in Paris in Summer
The key to Parisian style is to look put together without looking overly done. There is a certain level of effortlessness and ease that comes with the French wardrobe.
Simple silhouettes and classic pieces are essential when packing for Paris. Think tailored trousers, plain tees, button down shirts, blazers, and timeless dresses that can all be mixed and matched like a capsule wardrobe during your time there. (Don’t’ forget to pack a dual voltage travel steamer to avoid wrinkles in your clothing; this will also help you look more put-together and elevated.)
Although Parisians embrace a certain classic aesthetic, they also value personal style. Don’t be afraid to try classic pieces in oversized silhouettes to feel more modern. Across the city, and especially in Le Marais, you’ll see tons of Parisians wearing outfits with unique flair and embracing individuality. Accessories can go a long way to refresh your outfits even if it’s something simple like adding a belt or blazer to your look.
Check the Weather
Paris weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer. When I visited Paris for a month in June, most of the time it was cool enough for me to wear a trench coat. If you’re traveling to Paris in early summer, plan on packing a few light layers and outerwear options like a tweed jacket or even a leather jacket. If you’re heading to Paris in later summer months like July and August, it’s likely that you won’t need any true outerwear, but a lightweight layer like a long sleeved sweater can always come in handy due to an unexpected dip in temperatures.
For the most part, summer in Paris is relatively standard with US summers. In early summer you’ll find more mild weather in the 60s and 70s with an occasional heatwave. But by July and August, be prepared for temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
Although it doesn’t necessarily rain a lot in Paris like it does in London, I was there in one of the rainiest Junes in years. A travel umbrella is always a good idea to pack; you never know when you’ll get caught in the middle of a summer storm!
Stick with Neutral Colors
Whenever I travel, one of my favorite space-saving travel hacks is packing with a concise color palette so to mix and match outfits based on activities, dinner reservations, and sudden changes in the weather. I like bringing pieces I can wear a few ways, at least twice on trips to minimize what I bring.
The Parisian dress code embraces neutral colors, so think white, navy, black, and tan.
Pack Comfortable Shoes
Paris, just like many other European cities, is full of cobblestone streets. Unless you’re attending a highly formal event, you don’t need to bring super high heels or stilettos. Prioritize packing comfortable shoes for this walking city like sneakers, flat sandals, block heels, or espadrilles.
What Not to Pack
Although Paris is one of the fashion capitals of the world, there are still a few things you may want to stay clear of in you’re looking to blend in.
In general, steer clear of anything that’s too revealing, like a skimpy top or super short shorts. People do wear shorts in Paris but they’re generally longer, tailored versions like this style.
And while the sporty fashion trend is popular in Paris, you’ll still want to avoid wearing any workout gear and athleisure looks as your daytime outfit. Save these items for the gym, a run on the Seine, or for your travel outfit.
Paris Outfits & What to Pack for Paris in Summer
1. Slip Dress
A slip dress is a great versatile and elevated option for Paris in the summer. Slip dresses take up minimal suitcase space. Wear your slip dress on its own with sandals on a hot Paris summer day. Try it with sneakers; or add a blazer for a more polished evening look if you’re heading to a nice dinner.
2. Comfortable Sneakers
Comfortable sneakers are a must in Paris, even in the summer, and a classic white sneaker will be your BFF through the streets in the City of Lights. Sneakers are always my most worn pair of shoes when I visit and work with everything from jeans and trousers to skirts and dresses.
When I was in Paris most recently, I couldn’t stop seeing these shoes on nearly every Parisian:
3. Blazer
Parisian women love their blazers. A blazer is a great staple that can elevate even the simplest outfit, and helps you achieve that perfect elevated look that Parisian style is known for. This blazer is one of my favorites; I own it in three prints/colors.
4. Wide Leg Trousers
I’m a big fan of wide leg trousers because I love the instant tailor look they provide, and they’re much more comfortable than jeans.
In the summer, look for linen trousers, or try these drapey Tencel trousers.
Trousers work great in the day with sneakers, but you can also wear them at night with ballet flats or dressy sandals.
5. Crossbody Bag
A crossbody bag is always my bag style of choice for all my international travel, and this exact one has been my go-to since 2019. It’s large enough to fit a small camera, wallet, sunglasses, and portable phone charger.
I prefer crossbody styles for two reasons: you can be completely hands free during your trip to Paris, and the crossbody strap provides added safety so that the bag is physically connected to you. A zip top closure also acts as a deterrent to potential pickpockets in any crowded or touristy areas.
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6. Straight Leg Blue Jeans
The French are known for their classic style, and there’s nothing more classic than a good pair of straight leg blue jeans.
I purchased these jeans in the dark wash just before my most recent trip to Paris; it’s a perfect blue wash that works for day and night. And bonus, they’re under $100. These jeans run TTS and have a little stretch, making them super comfy when you’re out and about all day.
7. White Button Down Shirt
Another French classic is the white button down shirt. This timeless piece works with jeans, trousers, and even slip skirts. My all-time favorite is the Max Shirt from French label Sezane. It’s perfectly oversized for an easy, effortless feel.
8. Floral Dress
When it’s a warm, sunny summer day in Paris, a floral dress is always a lovely option (I love them with espadrilles!
9. Lightweight Sweater
It’s always a good idea to pack a lightweight sweater in a neutral color for Paris in the summer. You can wear it as a light layer in case the weather changes, and even wear it on its own buttoned up as a shirt.
10. Waist Coat/Vest
Vests are having a moment, and they’re a great dressier top alternative to t-shirts or plain tanks. I like to pair them with wide leg trousers and sneakers for an elevated everyday look walking around the streets in Paris.
11. Strappy Sandals
Just like you should pack a pair of comfortable sneakers for Paris in summer, don’t forget a pair of comfortable sandals.
I prefer sandals that have ankle straps (instead of slides) so that you can walk longer distances in them and your foot feels more supported.
12. Espadrilles
If you want a heeled option that works on cobblestone streets, espadrilles are a French classic shoe option seen all over Paris in the summer.
They’re perfect for dressing up outfits and the wedge heel is super comfy.
13. White Dress
As much as I love a little black dress, nothing says summer in Paris like a feminine white dress. Wear it during the day with sneakers, then swap out your shoes for espadrilles and dinner at the local cafe.
Enjoy your time in Paris in summer! For more packing help, be sure you don’t miss this post with my international travel packing list, full of my go-to essentials and tips.
