After more than 50 visits to Paris and helping hundreds of travelers plan their own trips through En Route to Rêverie, one of the questions I’m asked most often is, “What shouldn’t I pack?” While there are no strict fashion rules in Paris, there are definitely a few items that will make you stand out immediately as a visitor.

I’ve visited Paris in every season—from January snow to August heat waves—and my own packing lists have evolved considerably over the years. These are the pieces I personally leave at home now, and the advice I share with every En Route to Rêverie client before they depart.

This guide isn’t about dressing like someone you’re not. It’s about helping you feel confident, comfortable and appropriately dressed while exploring one of the world’s most stylish cities.

What Not to Wear in Paris

Parisians are known for their impeccable taste and style and classic, neutral outfits. While Parisians certainly don’t expect visitors to dress like locals, you’ll likely feel more comfortable and confident if you lean into the city’s generally polished, understated style.

High Heels

Paris has loads of cobblestone streets so leave sky-high heels at home and opt instead for block heels, sleek flats or comfortable sandals.

If you need ideas on outfits that are perfect for being dressed up for the night on the town in Paris, don’t miss my What to Wear in Paris at Night guide. 

Flip Flops

The other shoe style to leave at home? Flip flops. They’re not worn as a summer shoe in Paris. They’re reserved for beach or pool destinations in France only.

If you need help deciding on comfortable shoes to wear in Paris, you’ll want to refer to my Best Shoes to Wear in Paris. A comfortable pair of shoes in Paris is a must to really enjoy the city. You can plan to walk miles and miles!

Brand New Sneakers

While white sneakers are a Paris staple, remember you’ll likely walk 15,000-25,000 steps per day. Don’t bring brand new shoes you haven’t broken in. Blisters are one of the biggest travel mistakes I see clients make.

Baseball Cap

Baseball caps have become much more common in Paris over the past few years, particularly among younger people. The difference is they’re usually styled as part of a fashion-forward outfit rather than paired with sports jerseys or tourist apparel.

The above outfit is a perfect example of what to wear in Paris in winter that’s casual yet elevated and practical. I always pack a pair of white sneakers to log a lot of miles in when criss-crossing Paris.

Related: What to Wear to Paris in Winter

Berets

Berets are in fact worn by people in France. Often elderly people you’ll see going on their market runs wear them which I find so darling. But if you’re wearing a bright red beret and taking loads of photos while in Paris, you can expect to be treated like the tourist that you are.

Tourist Merchandise

I understand wanting to buy a Paris sweatshirt or souvenir tee while you’re visiting, but I’d save it for wearing once you’re back home. The same goes for destination merchandise, sports jerseys and heavily branded vacation apparel—they tend to immediately identify visitors.

Athleisure

Leggings, Lululemon belt bags, joggers, workout clothes…leave them at home.

While activewear has become more common in Paris in recent years, it’s still uncommon to see people wearing leggings or gym clothes while sightseeing or going to lunch. You’ll generally feel more in step with local style in trousers, denim or an easy dress.

If you want to be comfortable on the plane, I recommend an outfit like the above. It is put together and will allow you to not arrive in athleisure and be wandering the streets while you wait for your hotel room to be ready.

There are plenty of ways to stay comfortable in Paris without sacrificing style. Reference my many Paris Packing Lists for outfit inspo you can utilize when packing for Paris no matter the season.

Related: How to Dress for Paris in the Summer.

Belt Bags

Belt bags have become more common in Europe than they once were, but you’ll rarely see them worn across the chest with athletic outfits. If security is your primary concern, I’d still recommend a classic leather crossbody with a zipper.

Short Shorts

Shorts are becoming more common during Paris heat waves, but you’ll typically see tailored shorts or longer Bermuda styles rather than athletic shorts or very short denim cutoffs.

And men in Paris rarely, rarely wear shorts unless it is remarkably hot.

Flashy Items

Avoid wearing anything overly flashy that could make you a pickpocketing target. Limit jewelry and lots of flashy designer goods. Keep your belongings close to you and make sure you have bags that zip or close securely. 

And while we’re at it…don’t leave phone on café tables, avoid expensive camera equipment hanging around your neck and don’t carry luxury shopping bags all day.

The Wrong Coats

Pack your coats depending on the weather. For Paris in summer I usually only bring a light sweater for air conditioned places.

In Spring and Fall I always pack my trench coat as my light jacket that looks put together but also works for both day and evening.

Distressed Denim

There’s not a lot of ripped jeans seen in Paris. While I like to wear some distressed denim in my life for weekends upstate, I never bring ripped jeans with me to France personally.

Heavy Makeup

Several of my French friends have told me they can often spot American tourists by heavier makeup and more styled hair. Even my usual curling rod waves are often suspect as French women are more apt to have very lightly done hair and makeup.

That said, I still love my curling iron and wear my hair however I please. It’s a good reminder that these are observations, not rules.

You may enjoy How to Pack Makeup for Travel.

. . .

Visiting Paris is the best and packing efficiently and leaving behind certain things you may wear in the States is worth it. I always recommend you plan and write out your outfits in advance.

Planning your outfits in advance helps ensure you don’t forget key pieces and also makes it much easier to pack lighter.

One of the things I get asked most often is what to wear in Paris in [insert month here]. Layers are always your friend in Paris, regardless of the season. Weather can change quickly throughout the day, particularly in spring and fall.

For example, I’ve been in Paris in September when it feels very much like Fall and I’ve been visiting Paris in September when it was in the 90s! It changes year to year. 

Ultimately, the goal isn’t to look like someone else. The best outfits are the ones that feel like you – just a bit more intentional. Prioritize comfortable shoes, quality basics and pieces you’ll actually enjoy wearing all day as you explore the city.

But this also doesn’t mean you can’t feel comfortable or dress in ways that make you feel like yourself and embrace your own personal style.

Need advice for what to wear in Paris each season? I have seasonal Paris Packing Lists. 

I hope this post is helpful to you as plan a trip to Paris! Let me know if you have questions in the comments. 

Frequently Asked Questions About What Not to Wear in Paris

Can you wear sneakers in Paris?

Absolutely. In fact, sneakers are one of the most common shoes you’ll see in Paris. I recommend a pair of comfortable white leather sneakers or another clean, minimalist style that you’ve already broken in before your trip.

You’ll likely walk 15,000–25,000 steps per day, so comfort is key.

Can you wear leggings in Paris?

You can, but I generally don’t recommend them for sightseeing or dining out. While activewear has become more common in Paris in recent years, locals typically wear leggings only when they’re exercising. Instead, opt for comfortable jeans, tailored trousers or an easy dress if you want to blend in a bit more.

Do people wear shorts in Paris?

Yes, particularly during the hotter months and increasingly during summer heat waves. Tailored shorts, linen shorts and longer Bermuda styles are much more common than athletic shorts or very short denim cutoffs.

If you’re visiting during summer, my guide to What to Wear in Paris When It’s Hot has even more outfit ideas.

Can I wear flip-flops in Paris?

I wouldn’t recommend them unless you’re headed to a pool or beach. For walking around the city, you’ll be much more comfortable in sandals with a supportive sole, ballet flats or sneakers.

I also share all of my favorite walking shoes in The Best Shoes to Wear in Paris.

Do I need to dress up for dinner in Paris?

It depends on the restaurant, but Parisians generally lean a bit dressier than many Americans. A simple dress, trousers with a nice blouse or shirt or dark denim paired with elevated accessories will work for most restaurants.

For fine dining or Michelin-starred restaurants, I’d recommend dressing up a bit more.

Read my Guide on What to Wear in Paris at Night.

Are baseball caps common in Paris?

They’re much more common than they used to be, especially among younger Parisians. The difference is they’re typically styled as part of a polished outfit rather than worn with sports jerseys or destination merchandise.

Should I wear a beret in Paris?

Just know that the stereotypical bright red beret often associated with Paris tends to be more of a tourist souvenir than something you’ll commonly see locals wearing.

How do I avoid looking like a tourist in Paris?

The easiest way is to focus on timeless, versatile pieces rather than trendy or overly casual outfits. Comfortable shoes, quality basics, neutral colors and a well-fitting jacket or trench coat will take you far.

Related: French Wardrobe Staples

More importantly, wear clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable—you’ll enjoy your trip much more than if you’re worrying about following every so-called fashion rule.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want personalized hotel recommendations, itinerary advice and insider guidance beyond what you’ll find on my blog, we’d love to help you plan a more thoughtful trip.

At En Route to Rêverie we’ve helped hundreds of travelers experience Paris more thoughtfully with bespoke planning services, trusted hotel partnerships and personalized recommendations tailored to how you like to travel.

You May Also Like:

• What to Pack for a Girls’ Trip to Paris.
• What to Wear in Paris When It’s Hot.
• What to Wear in Paris in the Spring.

 

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