If you’re planning a trip to Paris in the spring and you’re not sure what to wear or pack, here’s a list of versatile pieces to keep you comfortable while also looking effortlessly chic.
Spring is a great time to visit Paris. Although tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre start to get busier, they still aren’t nearly as crowded as Paris in summer. Tulips and cherry blossoms are in bloom, there are longer daylight hours, and the city starts to shake off the winter as temperatures, albeit slowly, start to increase.
The city’s parks, like Jardin des Tuileries, Place des Vosges, and Jardin du Luxembourg, come alive with locals and visitors enjoying the fresh air. It’s the perfect season for strolling along the Seine, exploring charming neighborhoods, and soaking in Parisian café culture.
What to Wear in Paris in Spring
What Is Spring Like in Paris?
Temperatures can vary, but Paris experiences a traditional northern hemisphere spring with cool mornings and evenings (around 45°F/7°C) to mild, sunny afternoons (up to 65°F/18°C). In late spring like May and into early June, you can also experience slightly warmer weather near 70°, but it’s as hot as summer in Paris.
Rain showers are common, not just in the spring but year-round, so a travel umbrella is always a good idea.
What to Pack for Paris in Spring
Knowing the right items to wear in Paris in spring will help you pack smartly and dress appropriately for your trip.
Overall, Parisian style is effortless, with timeless staples in a neutral color palette. Think tailored coats, perfectly fitted jeans, and classic knitwear paired with understated accessories. It’s a balance of looking polished yet relaxed—prioritizing quality over quantity—to create a wardrobe that’s both sophisticated and versatile.
Spring weather in Paris can be all over the place, so layering is essential. A combination of lightweight sweaters, tops, and the right outerwear will keep you comfortable through the shifting temperatures of the days.
Paris is a walking city, so above all else, be sure to pack at least one pair of comfortable, stylish shoes.
This list is meant to serve as inspiration for your Paris trip, so feel free to adjust it based on your personal preferences, trip duration, and planned activities.
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Trench Coat
A trench coat is the perfect outerwear option for Paris in the spring. Trench coats are classic French style and closet staples because of their versatility.
I prefer a long, slightly oversized trench coat in tan, as it’s a great neutral that works with just about everything you will have in your suitcase. Look for a high-quality trench coat that’s water repellent for wet weather days. The light to medium-weight material works for this time of year, and trench coats can be worn several ways, day or night.
I have this trench coat that I picked up in London in the spring, and it’s easily one of my most worn jackets. I also always see tons of Parisian women wearing this trench coat whenever I visit!
Trench Coat | Neutral Sweater | Red Lipstick | Black Blazer | Sunglasses | Slip Dress | Ballet Flats | White Sneakers | Jeans | T-Shirt | Lady Jacket | Ankle Boots | Crossbody Bag
Jeans
Due to the mild weather during this time of year in Paris, you’ll want to be sure to pack jeans as it’s not hot enough for skirts and summer dresses. I usually like to pack two pairs of jeans: blue jeans and black jeans. You can’t go wrong with straight leg styles that hit right at the ankle.
Trousers
I love wearing wide leg trousers, and they’re a must for a spring trip to Paris. Swap them in where you’d normally wear jeans for a fresh, polished look. My favorite way to elevate a sneakers-and-tee outfit is by pairing it with trousers—a stylish twist that’s still super comfy.
Black pants always work, but I love tan wide leg trousers for spring!
Sneakers
Comfortable walking shoes are a must in walking cities, especially in ones like Paris with uneven and cobblestone streets.
I always pack a few pairs of shoes with me on any trip, and after spending a month in Paris last year, I can say with 100% certainty my sneakers were my most worn shoes. And when I say sneakers, I don’t mean the ones you wear to the gym. French women (and French men!) embrace stylish, lifestyle sneakers including Adidas, New Balance, and Veja. Although most neutral colors will work, you can never go wrong with white sneakers. They’re a versatile, good option and work with jeans, trousers, and dresses.
Other Comfortable Shoes
For days when you may want something a little more elevated than a sneaker, try other comfortable shoe options like loafers, ballet flats, or depending on the weather, a pair of ankle boots. All three can elevate a casual outfit during the day, but they also work for dinner, too.
I’m personally a loafers gal; the soles tend to be sturdier than ballet flats, especially when walking around Paris. I own a few pairs of loafers from the French brand Sezane; this pair is a great option to pack for your trip to Paris since the metal chain detail provides a touch of elegance.
Sweaters
The unpredictable weather in the City of Light means that you may encounter warmer days mixed with cooler, even rainy days. It is spring, after all! Keep in mind that weather in Paris during this time of year dips into the low 40s, so it’s very brisk in the morning and evening.
Therefore, it’s a good idea to pack a light sweater or two. I recommend neutral colors so you can mix and match with different outfits and wear multiple times during your trip. In spring I often wrap a sweater over my shoulders—it looks stylish and it’s also practical to have an extra layer on hand in case it gets cold.
This lightweight cashmere sweater is a personal favorite, as is this v-neck one. Cashmere is fairly wrinkle resistant, so the fabric doesn’t require tons of steaming or ironing.
Basic Tees
Basic t-shirts are travel essentials, so don’t forget to pack them for your Paris trip. I prefer tees that aren’t too baggy or fitted, and I wear them casually with jeans and trench coats as well as with trousers and blazers. A few of my favorites are these tees from Madewell; these tees from Everlane; and these super soft, elevated tees from M.M.LaFleur.
Basic tees are also an easy layer to throw on under a sweater. I love a little pop of white near the collar or hem as a thoughtful, third piece to pull together an outfit.
If you’re prone to being cold, it can’t hurt to throw in a long sleeve tee or two.
Elevated Tops
French women are experts at looking effortlessly put together, even if they’re wearing jeans. Pack a couple elevated tops in addition to your casual tees and sweaters. These work for dinners, museum days, and local sightseeing.
As with other pieces, stick to a neutral color palette and opt for timeless pieces like a classic blue, striped, or white button-down shirt, or a simple silk blouse. Both can be worn tucked into jeans or trousers.
A Little Black Dress
If you have something nice planned like the ballet, opera, or afternoon tea, you may want to pack a dress for the occasion(s). I recommend packing a black slip dress—it’s highly versatile, you can wear it more than once during your trip, and when rolled up it takes virtually no space in your suitcase.
Spring Dresses
Depending on when you visit (and the weather forecast), spring dresses can be the perfect addition to your Paris packing list, offering an easy, stylish option for both daytime exploring and evening outings.
A classic shirt dress in a midi length pairs effortlessly with sneakers and ballet flats. Layer with a trench coat or lightweight cardigan to stay comfortable in changing temperatures.
Blazer
I always like to bring a blazer when packing for Paris because the dress code there is always on the more elevated side, even if you’re wearing jeans. Blazers provide a dressed-up feel and work beautifully over basic tees just as nicely as they do over black dresses.
Another Light Jacket
If your trip to Paris spans over a week and/or you’re looking for more jackets to add to the mix, try a leather jacket, denim jacket, or a lady jacket.
A lady jacket is a typical French fashion piece. It’s a collarless jacket, usually cropped in length, and can be worn buttoned as a shirt or as a light jacket.
Crossbody Bag
A crossbody bag is my bag of choice for most international travel. I like the flexibility of being able to go hands-free while I’m out and about on the streets of Paris, and there’s also some added piece of mind knowing that the bag is physically connected to you and can’t be easily pulled off your shoulder. Look for bags that have a secure closure like a clasp or zipper, as pickpocketing can be common in Paris (although I have never had any personal recent issues.)
PRO TIP: You may also want to pack a canvas tote! Many Parisian women use one. It’s super convenient to put any small items you may purchase throughout your day in your tote, and this way you don’t have to carry multiple bulky shopping bags at once.
Travel Umbrella
Even if you check the weather forecast before your trip and it says no rain, you should still pack a travel umbrella. The weather in Paris can change in an instant, so it’s always a good idea to have one on hand.
Silk Scarf
Spring in Paris can still be quite chilly, so a silk scarf is a great addition to your Paris packing list. Not only is it a chic accessory, but it also provides just enough warmth without the bulk of a heavy wool scarf you’d wear in winter.
What Not to Wear in Paris
French fashion at its core, is slightly elevated, and outfits are always intentional, even if it’s a casual look.
While high heels work for a special night out, I do not recommend them as your shoe of choice due to uneven pavement in this walking city. Instead, I’d opt for a lower block heel or low slingback shoe that you can wear multiple times during your trip in case you still want a fancier option.
Do not plan on wearing workout leggings, gym wear, or athletic sneakers unless you’re at the gym or going for a run.
I’d also skip the big backpacks while you’re out and about. You really just need a good sized crossbody bag, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop for drinks, snacks, and apero at the countless cafes across the French capital. (I do, however, use this travel backpack as a carry-on for my flight.)
As a rule of thumb, skip anything that’s too revealing, including super tight clothing, and short skirts or short shorts.
Other Paris Travel Essentials & Packing Tips
H4) Don’t Forget a Travel Adapter
Paris uses a different voltage and plug type than the U.S., so be sure to pack a compatible adapter to keep your devices charged. A universal travel adapter like this one is a great investment, especially if you’re also visiting the UK or other European destinations on your trip.
Bring a Portable Charger
You’ll likely spend long days exploring Paris. Constant photo-taking and navigating can drain your phone battery faster than expected. A portable charger is a must-have to keep your phone powered up while on the go.
Use Packing Cubes
Spring weather in Paris can be unpredictable, meaning you’ll likely need a mix of light and warm layers. Packing cubes help to keep clothing organized while also maximizing space in your suitcase.
Pack a Capsule Wardrobe
To make outfit planning easier, stick to a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces in a cohesive color palette. This way, you can mix and match effortlessly, wear items multiple times, and adapt to any weather shifts without overpacking.
A well-curated selection of timeless pieces and basics ensures you’ll look polished with minimal effort—this is also the epitome Parisian style.
Leave Room for Purchases
Trust me—leave extra space in your suitcase for your trip! Paris is home to incredible shopping, where you can pick up great finds at designer boutiques, charming local stores, and the French pharmacy.
If you’re planning to splurge on a luxury purchase, be sure to take advantage of the VAT refund available to non-EU travelers. VAT refunds allow non-EU travelers to get a portion of the sales tax back on purchases. The refund process is easy, and you can do it at the airport before you leave.
If you anticipate bringing home lots of souvenirs or larger items, it can’t hurt to bring a foldable bag that unzips to a carry-on duffel.
For my favorite shopping locations and other helpful Paris travel tips, be sure to check out my curated Paris Guide.
