My countdown to Paris began a long time ago, but I’m now assessing my closet and gathering items that are on a short list of being packed in my suitcases. While there are still a few things I’m not sure will make the cut, there are several pieces that come with me every time I visit Paris, and I’m adding a couple of new favorites this time.
I’m a classic overpacker…who knows what I will feel like wearing on any given day? So, I end up not wearing about one-third of my suitcase, and I’m fine with that. I like taking mix-and-match pieces with a themed color story for easy options.
And I always (always!) come back with new finds. Afterall, shopping is my preferred method for experiencing Paris, so my suitcases are rather large to accommodate my purchases.
Below are my essential items. The list is much longer and includes a small portion of my bathroom (toiletries, beauty, hair products and clips) and a regular assortment of travel items (chargers, adapters, books, small journals, stain sticks). For now, here are just a few things that travel with me on each trip.
I build my outfits around jeans in several different cuts and styles. I love Mother denim, and the Weekender jeans are more versatile than you’d think. Madewell is my favorite cropped style, and then Kut from the Kloth Catherine Boyfriend Jeans that can be rolled up or down. Gap’s High Rise Stride Wide-Leg Ankle Jeans will go with me this time, along with a pair of black pants, just in case.
Always ISO for the Perfect Tee, I’m obsessed with Quince’s Cotton Boxy V-Neck and Crewneck styles, and have them in every color (sometimes two of a particular color). And you can’t beat the price! It’s my Goldilocks find: not too short, not too long, not too tight, not too loose. True to size, 100% cotton. I don’t put mine in the dryer, so keep an eye on sizing if you do.
Pro tip: Quince releases different “trend” colors every now and then, so I keep this link bookmarked and check each week. These tees sell out quickly, so buy when they are available.
A couple of classic button downs in white and striped, along with a few pop-over tops like this linen one or this cotton one round out my shirts. And, I’m also including this cute linen dress and a white maxi dress – both can be styled up or down.
In May, Paris weather is mild Spring (mid 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit during the day), but it can be chilly sometimes, especially in the morning and evenings. And, it will rain at some point. I promise. So having a few layering pieces is essential. No Paris packing list is complete without a trench coat, and then a couple of light jackets, a blazer, and a cotton cardigan or two. Alex Mill Taylor Cardigans can be buttoned up, down, or in between, and the quality is amazing. The striped one is a fun choice.
My go-to sneakers are Keds in white leather protected with this spray. I wear these nearly every day as I walk the city, and they are comfortable, stylish, and go with a remarkable number of outfits from jeans to sundresses. They come with me on every single trip and never let me down.
Then, my Blondo waterproof boots and loafers (remember, it will rain), along with my favorite Sam Edelman ballet flats round out the selections. Each of these have a bit of cushion and rubbery soles to ease navigating the cobblestone streets.
For essential accessories, the Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote is the best, and my friend, L, calls this her Mary Poppins bag. So true, because this holds everything for the day! Plus it’s lightweight, which is important since I walk almost everywhere and need a light bag. I’ve taken this with me on every trip, along with another tote I found at a thrift store that’s a beautiful caramel-colored, light-weight leather.
Finally, I take two pairs of sunglasses like these and these, a slim umbrella, a wrap scarf, and a few pieces of classic jewelry that will go with everything (small hoop earrings, my favorite bracelet).
I’ll be in Paris for 10 days, and I know from experience that each of the above is on my “must pack” list. Everything can be mixed and matched for any occasion and help me blend into the environment so I don’t look like a tourist.
I hope this inspires your packing too!
Au revoir until next time,
~Valerie’s Granddaughter