If you’re planning a summer trip to Paris, there’s one thing you should prepare for that wasn’t always quite as common: heat.

While Paris summers can still be mild and pleasant, recent years have brought more frequent stretches of very hot weather and even occasional heat waves. I’ve experienced Paris in temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the mid-90s and trust me when I say your packing list should account for both.

The good news? Dressing for hot weather in Paris doesn’t mean sacrificing style. In fact, some of my favorite Paris outfits are built around lightweight fabrics, effortless dresses and polished separates that are both chic and practical.

What to Wear in Paris When It’s Hot

The key is focusing on breathable fabrics, comfortable shoes and pieces that help you stay cool while still feeling appropriately dressed for museums, cafés, dinners and long days of exploring.

What Is Considered Hot in Paris?

While average summer temperatures in Paris are often quite comfortable, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to climb into the 80s and even 90s during June, July and August.

One thing many visitors don’t realize is that air conditioning is still not as widespread in Paris as it is in the United States. Many apartments, cafés, boutiques and even some hotels may have limited air conditioning or none at all. This makes choosing the right clothing even more important.

When temperatures rise in Paris, I focus on lightweight natural fabrics, loose silhouettes and simple outfits that don’t cling to the body.

Don’t miss the Men’s Paris Packing List for Spring & Summer Guide

The Best Fabrics for Hot Weather in Paris

Linen

If I know Paris is going to be hot, linen is the first thing I reach for.

A linen button down can be worn open over a tank top, tied over a dress or paired with trousers for evenings. Linen dresses are another favorite because they allow for airflow while still looking polished. A dress like this goes easily from day to night and still looks elegant while being comfortable and lightweight.

Don’t worry too much about wrinkles. Linen always feels appropriate in Paris and a bit of texture is part of its charm. (Or be prepared with my travel steamer that works wonders on linen).

I love the linen pieces from With Nothing Underneath in particular. You can use code MEGHAN10 for 10% off your order.

Cotton Poplin

Cotton poplin is perhaps my favorite fabric to wear in Paris during the summer.

A cotton poplin dress looks polished, photographs beautifully and feels much lighter than many travelers expect. I always pack at least one or two for summer trips.

This is a favorite one I’ve been wear in summer in Paris for years (recommend you size up! I have size 8).

Lightweight Cotton

Simple cotton tees, cotton tanks and lightweight cotton dresses will work harder in your suitcase than almost anything else.

Stick to neutral colors that mix and match easily throughout your trip.

What to Wear in Paris When Temperatures Reach 80 Degrees and Above

Easy Dresses

Nothing earns more space in my Paris suitcase than dresses in the summer.

A breezy midi dress or cotton poplin dress can take you from a morning museum visit to dinner with only a change of shoes and accessories.

I particularly love shirt dresses, cotton dresses and simple black dresses for summer trips.

Linen Trousers

For travelers who don’t love wearing dresses, linen trousers are one of the smartest pieces to pack.

They keep your legs covered from the sun while remaining breathable and comfortable. Pair them with a tank, a lightweight knit tank or a simple button down.

Related: How to Style Trousers

Lightweight Skirts

A flowing or tailored midi skirt paired with a simple tank top is another outfit formula I rely on during hot weather.

The silhouette feels effortless and polished while helping you stay comfortable during long walking days.

Sleeveless Tops and Tanks

Parisians tend to favor simple, elevated basics over overly trendy pieces.

A well-fitting tank top paired with linen trousers, white denim or a midi skirt feels perfectly at home in Paris.

The Best Shoes for Hot Weather in Paris

Minimal Leather Sandals

A sleek leather sandal is my preferred shoe when temperatures climb.

Look for styles with enough support to comfortably walk several miles each day. This brand makes my favorites.

Some of my Favorite Sandal Styles

Ballet Flats

A mesh ballet flat or lightweight leather ballet flat is another great option for summer.

They’re polished enough for dinners and museums while remaining comfortable for walking.

Ballet Flats Outfit Ideas

Fashion Sneakers

Even in hot weather, I usually bring a pair of white sneakers.

They’re especially useful for days with heavy sightseeing, neighborhood wandering and museum hopping.

What I Would Skip Wearing in Paris During a Heat Wave

When temperatures soar, there are a few pieces I leave at home:

• Denim
• Thick blazers
• Synthetic fabrics that trap heat
• Very high heels
• Anything overly fitted or restrictive
• Outerwear – you won’t need it! 

I also typically skip flip flops. While practical for the beach, they tend to feel out of place in Paris and aren’t ideal for long days of walking.

Related: What Not to Wear in Paris

And while I know some people don’t prefer to wear black in the heat, I personally am a fan because I will not stress about sweating in black linen. 

Accessories That Make a Difference

When Paris is particularly hot, a few accessories become essential to have on hand I’ve found.

A Straw Hat

Not only does it provide sun protection, but it instantly makes any outfit feel more polished.

Sunglasses

A classic pair of sunglasses is a non-negotiable for summer in Paris.

A Hand Fan

One of the smartest things I’ve added to my summer travel packing list in recent years is a hand fan. Whether you’re waiting for the Metro, sitting outdoors at a café or walking through a crowded museum, you’ll be thankful you packed one.

Want something more powerful? Try this 3 in 1 fan that also has misting capabilities. 

A Reusable Water Bottle

Paris has public water fountains throughout the city, making it easy to stay hydrated while exploring.

Cooling Anti-Chafe Shorts

I love wearing these under dresses and skirts when its hot. They are comfortable, don’t roll and help prevent any uncomfortable chafing that is often induced by hot, sweaty days. 

SPF

Not an accessory so to speak but necessary for hot days and any summer day in Paris. My favorite SPFs to travel with are the Tower28 Sunny Days SPF (I wear shade Fairfax) and the Caudalie Vinosun Mineral SPF.

I always am sure to bring along a powder SPF with me wherever I go for easy face re-application over makeup. I swear by this and can’t recommend it enough. It’s also great for easily applying SPF on your part line!

For body I like the Oak Essentials SPF, the Supergoop Play sunscreen and the Vacation Mineral SPF. 

And don’t forget about your lips this time of year in Paris, too! They are often overlooked. Supergoop has a SPF lip balm you can tote around for easy application and this summer I’ve been really into these tinted SPF glosses. 

If you forget SPF, you can always find a good one at a French Pharmacy.

Silk Scarves

I like packing silk scarves to be able to tie onto my bags for some variety to my looks and on hot days I will often style my hair with a silk scarf.

I find great selections of options at Nordstrom and at Longchamp.

And consider cooling bra inserts or a cooling neck collar to help stay cool when it’s really hot in Paris. 

Sample Paris Hot Weather Outfit Ideas

If you’re looking for some specific ideas of how to put together outfits for Paris when it’s hot, check out the outfit ideas below. And don’t miss the widget at the end of this post with an entire edit of pieces you can wear in Paris when it’s a heatwave.

Outfit 1

Cotton Poplin Dress or Linen Midi Dress (recommend sizing up) + woven mary janes + shoulder bag + earrings + bracelet + necklace

Outfit 2

Linen trousers + linen top + woven ballet flats + earrings + hand fan + lip gloss + raffia tote

Outfit 3

100% cotton dress or linen midi dress + ankle wrap sandals + bracelet + bracelet + hair pin + earrings + raffia tote

Outfit 4

Linen shirt + matching linen shorts + leather sandals + raffia tote + packable hat + sunglasses + earrings + necklace

While I typically avoid outfits this casual and don’t wear shorts in Paris, if it’s a heatwave, exceptions have to be made!

Outfit 5

sleeveless linen top + cotton poplin midi skirt + sandals + earrings + bracelet + sunglasses + raffia tote

Outfit 6

Linen two piece set (wearing a Large) + leather sandals + shoulder bag

If you’re planning a trip to Paris and want expert guidance beyond what to pack, my travel planning company, En Route to Rêverie, specializes in bespoke travel planning throughout France and the UK. From hotel matchmaking and itinerary design to insider recommendations and VIP perks at our preferred hotel partners, we help travelers experience Paris in a more thoughtful and seamless way.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, we’d be delighted to help you plan your own Parisian rêverie. Learn more about our services at En Route to Rêverie.

Frequently Asked Questions About What to Wear in Paris When It’s Hot

Is Paris too hot to visit in the summer?

Not at all. Summer remains one of the most popular times to visit Paris, thanks to long daylight hours, outdoor dining and beautiful gardens in full bloom. That said, temperatures can occasionally climb into the 80s and 90s, particularly in July and August.

Packing breathable fabrics like linen and cotton will help you stay comfortable while exploring the city but it is most important for you to check the weather just before you depart to ensure you are packing for the right weather. I’ve seen June in the 70s and June in the 90s!

Do Parisians wear shorts in the summer?

Yes, but generally in a more polished way than you may be used to seeing in the United States. Tailored shorts paired with a button down, lightweight knit or simple tank are common during hot weather. If you plan to visit churches, museums or nicer restaurants, dresses, skirts and linen trousers are often more versatile options.

What should I wear in Paris during a heat wave?

During a Paris heat wave, prioritize loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like linen and cotton. Lightweight dresses, linen trousers, sleeveless tops and comfortable sandals are all excellent choices. A straw hat, sunglasses and reusable water bottle can also make a significant difference when spending long days outdoors.

Have SPF on you and be sure you’re drinking lots of water.

Is air conditioning common in Paris?

Air conditioning is becoming more common in Paris hotels, but it is still far less prevalent than in the United States throughout the city. Many apartments, boutiques, cafés and older buildings may have limited air conditioning or none at all. If air conditioning is important to you, be sure to confirm amenities before booking your accommodations. My travel atelier can help you here.

Can I wear sandals in Paris?

Absolutely. Minimal leather sandals are one of the best shoes for Paris in the summer. Look for pairs that are comfortable enough for extensive walking while still feeling polished. I typically avoid rubber flip flops unless I’m headed to a pool or beach destination.

What shoes are best for walking around Paris in hot weather?

Comfortable fashion sneakers, ballet flats and supportive leather sandals are all excellent options. Paris is a city best explored on foot, so you’ll want shoes that can handle several miles of walking each day without sacrificing style.

Related: The Best Shoes to Wear in Paris

What should I pack for Paris in July and August?

For the hottest months of the year, as mentioned, I recommend packing a mix of linen dresses, cotton poplin dresses, lightweight tops, linen trousers, comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight sweater for cooler evenings and sun protection accessories such as a hat and sunglasses. Versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched will help you pack lighter while still creating multiple outfits.

For when the heat is intense, have a hand fan on you. 

Having a hand fan on me is actually my secret weapon to not feeling like I’m going to faint while standing on the Metro platform waiting for a train in the summer. For more power and some misting capabilities, I’ll bring this one out.

. . .

Shop for Paris in the Heat

 

When deciding what to wear in Paris when it’s hot, prioritize breathable fabrics, comfortable shoes and versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched throughout your trip.

The most stylish outfits in Paris are rarely the most complicated. A beautiful linen dress, a great pair of sandals and thoughtful accessories will always feel more Parisian than anything overly trendy.

Above all, dress for comfort. Paris is a city best experienced on foot and you’ll enjoy every museum, café terrace and neighborhood stroll far more when you’re not overheating.

For more Paris outfit inspiration, don’t miss my guides on What to Wear in Paris in Summer, What to Wear in Paris at Night and more complete, seasonal Paris Packing Lists.

The key is focusing on breathable fabrics, comfortable shoes and pieces that help you stay cool while still feeling appropriately dressed for museums, cafés, dinners and long days of exploring.

You May Also Like:

• What to Wear in Paris When It Rains.
• Men’s Paris Packing List for Spring & Summer.
• What to Pack for Europe in Summer.

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