December in Paris is pure magic: festive lights across famed squares, crisp winter air along the Seine, a slower pace than the summer crush and cafés beckoning with vin chaud and warm croissants. As the founder of En Route to Rêverie I have helped hundreds of people plan a trip to Paris via Rêverie in Paris. I have been to the city of Paris in all seasons. 

But, to fully savor it during a trip in December, you’ll want a packing strategy that balances warmth + style + versatility. This guide will walk you through what to pack for Paris in December with chic, neutrals-based pieces, travel friendly finds and the kind of wardrobe you’ll actually reach for again and again.

What to Pack for Paris in December

Why December in Paris is a special travel moment

December brings a quieter, more reflective Paris. Fewer tourists and crowds, early dusk lighting, and that “holiday in the city” energy that make it one of the most charming months to visit.

December in Paris can gift you space to wander the museums without jostling, the opportunity to linger over a late-lunch tartine in Saint-Germain, or sip a hot chocolate on the Île de la Cité without feeling rushed.

Related: 21 Things to Do in Paris in Winter

Because the weather is cold (and sometimes damp) your packing should be deliberate. So don’t just think about what cute outfits to wear – think about warmth, layers, versatility and comfort.

In this post, I’ll share what to pack for Paris in December, including key clothing, accessories, and travel essentials so you arrive feeling polished, prepared, and ready for your trip.

The outer layer that carries you

Wool or cashmere-blend coat in a neutral tone

A great winter coat will be your daily hero. For Paris in December I recommend:

• is quite long.

• layers well over blazers, leather jackets or sweaters (so not too tight!)

• is in a neutral color so you can wear it over everything in your suitcase.

I have a few places I always look for coats at. They include & Other Stories, Ann Taylor, Toteme, H&M, Bash Paris, Mango, Everlane, Abercrombie, Sezane, Zara and J.Crew.

You can also shop my coat collection in my Favorite Winter Coats guide. 

Accessories: hats, gloves and cashmere wrap

Never underestimate the power of an accessory: a soft beanie, leather gloves, and a cashmere travel wrap (doubled as a plane blanket) will up your comfort game exponentially. Accessories are also essential. 

Travel umbrella

I am never without an umbrella when in Paris as it is often a matter of when not if when it comes to a bit of rain. This one meets my rigorous standards when it comes to a good umbrella.

Footwear for cobblestones, cafés and art-filled afternoons

Chic sneakers with walking-friendly soles

You’ll want something stylish yet comfortable enough for hours of wandering. A minimalist leather sneaker in white or cream can be your daytime go-to.

I love a pair of loafers with sheer socks in winter.

Leather ankle boots (and if you love, knee-high boots too)

For evenings and more polished looks, ankle boots in suede or leather are perfect. If your itinerary includes staying out late or a dinner cruise on the Seine, knee-high boots can add polish and warmth. The France-winter post recommends precisely this layering.

This is a current favorite pair.

Tights or thermal liners under trousers

If you’re bringing skirts or dresses (and you should), don’t skip tights or thermal leggings for underneath. They’ll make the difference between a “brr” moment and a cozy one.

I also like the tights from Calzedonia.

Core wardrobe pieces: mix day and night

Cashmere or merino sweaters

Soft, luxe sweaters in neutral tones are your base layer for most days. Think: cream, camel, charcoal. They’ll elevate jeans or trousers and feel beautifully comfortable. 

My Favorite Cashmere Sweaters

Long-sleeve tees + base layers

Bring a few high-quality long-sleeves to wear under sweaters, jackets or blazers. These are essential for layering and help avoid bulky lumps under your coat. I like those by the brand soldout.nyc.

Straight-leg jeans and tailored trousers

A great pair of jeans (ideally high-rise, straight-leg) plus tailored trousers give you flexibility: day exploring the Left Bank with loafers or dressed up with heels for an evening at a jazz club. 

This pair and this pair of trousers are so great.

Leather trousers or faux-leather skirt for evening

For a dinner in the 1st arrondissement or a museum after hours, a leather-detail piece adds Paris-worthy edge. This pair is my personal favorite. 

Skirt or dress + tights

If you’re bringing one dress: choose a sweater dress or midi dress, then pair with tights and boots. The winter France guide recommends exactly this for versatility and style. 

Blazer or tweed jacket

A tailored jacket in tweed or wool gives structure to your look. Then layer under your coat for photos at Palais-Royal or a scenic café.

Shop my collection of in-stock blazers and little jackets HERE.

Day bag: crossbody with closure

Choose a secure crossbody bag with zip or flap closure—perfect for navigating the Métro, browsing markets or enjoying seasonal holiday displays.

SHOP THE ABOVE LOOKS HERE

If you’d like even more outfit ideas of how to put these pieces all together, don’t miss my What to Wear in Paris in Winter Guide.

Color palette & styling strategy

To travel lighter and stylishly, pick a capsule palette you can easily mix and match.

For December in Paris I lean toward: black, navy, camel, ivory and charcoal gray. Stick to 2–3 colors plus one accent (maybe burgundy or forest green if you’re a color-lover) and your pieces will play nicely together.

A few tips as you plan looks:

• Plan outfits on your Notes app ahead of the trip so you avoid too-many “just in case” items.

• Choose fabrics that hold their shape, resist wrinkles and travel well (wool, cashmere, high-quality denim).

• Add a striped knit or easy-print top under your coat for visual interest.

Travel day essentials

• A Cashmere Travel Wrap that can double as a plane blanket or extra layer is a must.

• Noise-reducing headphones, travel pillow, eye mask — all essential in my book.

Everything I Pack in My Carry On

• Power bank and plug adapter.

• Foldable tote bag or day backpack for when you’re out browsing Christmas markets, and shopping to bring home special souvenirs.

Evening and special-moment pieces

For magical December dinners in Paris, you’ll want some elevated evening wear. 

• A silk blouse or satin camisole under a blazer.

• A midi slip skirt with a sweater.

• A great little black dress with boots and a coat.

• Statement earrings or a refined necklace. My favorites are all from Dorsey Jewelry.

Don’t miss my guide to What to Wear in Paris at Night.

Tech, travel documents and must-haves

• Passport (check expiration) & printed hotel / transfer confirmations

• Travel insurance + credit cards

• Euros for cash tips

• Downloaded Paris map/offline Google Maps + Metro app

• Portable WiFi or local SIM if you’re working on the go

• Small umbrella (yes again) because Paris weather is surprising

• Camera or good-lens phone 

• Reusable water bottle (tap water is safe) and small snacks (for long museum lines)

Sample packing list for Paris in December

Clothing

• 1 wool-blend long coat (neutral)

• 2–3 cashmere/merino sweaters (cream, camel, charcoal)

• 2 long-sleeve tees or base layers (neutral)

• 1 blazer or tweed jacket

• 1 pair straight-leg jeans

• 1 pair tailored trousers

• 1 faux-leather skirt or leather trousers

• 1 sweater dress or midi dress

• 1 skirt + tights

• 1 pair leather ankle boots

• 1 pair chic sneakers

• 1 crossbody day bag (secure closure)

• 1 evening bag or clutch

• 1-2 pair of flats – loafers; ballet flats

How I Plan My Outfits for Travel

Accessories

• Cashmere wrap / travel blanket (also plane day)

• Beanie or wool hat

• Leather gloves

• Sunglasses (December sun low on the horizon)

Travel Day & Misc

• Foldable tote

• Umbrella

• Plug adapter + power bank

• Travel documents / credit cards / insurance

• Lip balm + hand cream + hydrating mist

• Reusable water bottle + snacks

Evening upgrade

• Silk blouse or satin cami

• Statement earrings or refined necklace

Final tips for a seamless December Paris wardrobe

• Roll instead of fold bulky pieces (coat aside) to save suitcase space and reduce wrinkles.

• Leave a bit of suitcase room for holiday gift shopping and souvenirs.

• Stick to your color palette so all pieces mix and match.

• Prioritize comfort over trend – remember cobblestones, long walks and cold air.

• Check the weather forecast 3–4 days ahead so you know whether you’ll be in full-coat mode or light-layer mode.

• Work with an expert to plan your trip – request to book with En Route to Rêverie if you want a bespoke stay or Paris experience tailored to your unique style and preferences.

What to pack for Paris in December doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style for warmth. With thoughtful layering, a cohesive color palette, versatile pieces, and just a few elevated items, you’ll be ready to immerse yourself in the city’s winter charm—from holiday windows and warm cafés to museums and river strolls.

Shop for Paris in December

 

I hope you’ll be able to use this guide on what to pack for Paris in December so that you’ll step off the plane ready to wander, explore, and revel in the city.

Heading to Paris? Request to book with En Route to Rêverie and get customized recommendations based on your travel preferences to make your next trip to Paris the best one yet.

Bon voyage & enjoy every glowing moment of your winter city escape!

You May Also Like:

• How to Dress Like a Parisian in Winter.
• What to Pack for Paris in the Winter.
• What to Bring on a Trip.

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