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Packing for an autumnal trip to Paris? Your favorite Europe travel guide has rounded up the 7+ essential items you'll need for a trip to Paris in September, answered some frequently asked questions, and collected her "rules to dress by" for Fall in Paris!
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Packing for Paris in September?
September is one of the best times to visit Europe, and any time is a perfect time to visit the City of Light. Far smaller crowds than in the peak of the touristy summer months, cooler (but still gorgeous and sunny) days, lower prices, and happier, less over-worked staff at attractions and restaurants. What more could you want? Changing leaves in Pere Lachaise, actually being able to enjoy viewing the Eiffel Tower, and a cool, crisp breeze blowing through the streets of Paris. September in Paris is perfection.
And you know what else is perfection? Literally any outfit thrown together by Parisian women. The French capital proudly boasts the centuries-old and very well-earned title of the best dressed city in the world. I think I wasn't truly prepared on my first visit for how well-styled everyone was, just going about their daily tasks. Artistically draped scarves, subtle-yet-flattering make-up, simple-but-style hair, and all topped off with the cutest jackets. Many (most) American tourists are intimidated by Paris, myself included, for many reasons. The first reason is the 'language barrier' and correlated assumption that the French are rude. Well, never fear, I can help you with this - check out the full post: How to Charm the French: French Manners for American Tourists. Want to know even more? Read the book (not by me, sadly): The Bonjour Effect: The Secret Codes of French Conversation Revealed And you're here on the blog to learn how to conquer the second intimidating aspect of Paris for Americans: fitting in sartorially. There's no need to be intimidated by French fashion as you pack for your trip. Impressed by it? Absolutely! Ready to take it all in? Of course! But intimidated? Never! I've rounded up everything you need to know to help you feel fashionable and comfortable in Paris, without looking like a tourist. Before we get started, just a sincere thank you from me for being here. I am extremely passionate about helping Americans prepare for and navigate trips to Europe, particularly French & England. I was absolutely blown away by how kind and welcoming the French were - and I feel the need to spread the word. While you're here, I hope you'll take some time to explore the many free resources I've created over the years to help you plan your trip to Europe in general and France in particular:
Frequently Asked Questions about Packing for Paris in September
What's the temperature like in Paris in September?
The average high in September in Paris is 70 degrees and the average low is 55. What could be more perfect? You really can't beat Paris in September, unless, I suppose, you're comparing it with the equally splendid month of October. Ideal weather for strolling, sipping, and shopping.
In France, as in many European countries, many places you'll visit do not have air conditioning. This shouldn't be an issue in September, as temperatures cool throughout the month. Does it rain much in Paris in September?
No! You can expect only 7 rainy days in Paris in early Fall.
Should I bring rain gear to Paris in September?
I would bring some shoes that can handle rain, a small foldable umbrella, and make sure you have one jacket that is water resistant. But you don't need a parka.
What do French women wear in the Fall?
The Parisian Fall Formula: Jackets and scarves. Small, leather bags. Loafers or booties. Sleek "trousers" or jeans. And, as always, crisp white shirts.
Rules to Dress By for Paris in September
I like to include a couple "rules to dress by" to guide to your shopping and packing in advance of your trip to Europe. It's particularly important when talking about Paris, as we're here to talk about fashion AND comfort/tourist practicalities.
1. Finish the Outfit
In my humble opinion, the secret to French women always looking so perfect, with seemingly minimal effort, ("je ne said quoi") is that they always "finish the outfit." They add a scarf. A bright red lip. A belt that matches their shoes. A French woman would never leave the house without her outfit, as we call it these days, "styled." So we can easily do the same! For a tourist, that translates into: add a scarf, be sure to bring a jacket, and bring a small, nice purse (no travel backpacks please!!).
2. Neutral Color Palette
One accessible way to keep your travel outfit classy and French is to remember to stick to neutral colors. In everyday life, most French women wear fairly basic, traditional colors (blue/black dress pants, white shirts, khaki trench coats). We all love watching Emily in Paris, but unless you have the attire budget of a hit Netflix program, don't go too far out on a limb and don't wear a pink fur coat. Also avoid any and all labels, with the exception, if you must, of a luxury purse/shoe/belt (ONE AT A TIME).
What NOT to Pack for Paris in September
The Right Suitcases for Europe Travel
Finding the right suitcase for your trip to Europe is no easy task! And it's not one I'll conquer here. I will say: be sure to make a few notes here on your carry-on bag. If you're also checking a bag, be sure that you have a full change of clothes in your carry-on, in case your checked bag gets lost. You don't want to spend your first day exploring Paris in your filthy airplane clothes! And that carry-on bag itself? Make sure it's a soft-sided bag with a flap that zips off the top. The very in-vogue style of suitcase that unzips around the middle and flops open will take up your entire hotel room.
If this topic interests you, check out a few other posts I've written on packing for and flying to Europe: {2024} The 7+ Essentials You Need for Paris in September
A Parisian Light Jacket
The most important piece in your Fall-in-Paris wardrobe is your lightweight jacket. It's important not just as a practical tourism necessity, but also a stylish extra layer that no Parisian woman would be caught in September without.
I'd say your jacket should have two essential qualities: it should be light enough to wear everyday, and it should be rain-resistant. You don't necessarily need a separate rain jacket unless the forecast is looking really rough, which is unlikely. I'd go with a dark colored jacket or a classic, short trench coat. You won't need a full winter coat, as it will still be far too warm. And I'd avoid anything too utilitarian. You don't want to look like you're about to workout. If you're open to bringing two jackets, a classic blue blazer is always in style. Comfortable Walking Shoes for September in Paris
And the second most important item you'll pack for your trip to Paris is a few pairs of comfortable shoes. While you want to be practical. I will not have you missing out on the quintessential Parisian tourist experience of climbing Montmartre because of a bad shoe choice! But practicality does not mean you should wear the shoes you wear to workout. We can find ourselves a happy medium of stylish walking shoes you can take to Europe again and again. If you do buy new shoes, I beseech you: break them in before your trip!!
FAQ: Can I wear sneakers in Paris?
Yes! While the athleisure craze has not swept 'the Continent' like it has the USA, you can wear low profile, clean, neutral color sneakers in Paris. They're ideal for walking all day on bumpy, sometimes even cobblestone streets, and you'll fit right in.
I generally suggest three pairs of shoes for 10 days in Europe. For a 10-day trip to Paris in September, I'd recommend:
A Hands-Free Purse that Closes
The right purse for tourism in Paris will have four essential attributes: it's light weight, hands-free, it closes fully, and it's...très chic. We'll walk through these attributes one-by-one, and then I'll show you some perfect purses for Paris I've found that you can grab right now!
light weight
Your purse should, in no way, be an encumbrance to your tourism. Select a light weight bag and fill it with as little as possible.
hands-free
On that note, your small, lightly-packed bag should be hands-free. Don't even consider carrying a clutch or "hand bag" that you have to carry around constantly. Personally, I prefer a crossbody bag. Sometimes I forget it's there.
closes
The reality of being a tourist anywhere, not just in Europe, is that you should keep an eye on your belongings. And the same is true in Paris, especially at the heigh of tourist season. And though you'll be in "shoulder season" in September in Paris, it's still a good idea to get a purse that closes fully, preferably with a zipper. In crowded tourist locations like the Trocadero or outside of Sacre-Coeur, bad actors will always congregate to con tourists or pickpocket. Keep your purse zipped, and if weird people try to engage you in conversation, just keep walking.
très chic
Not much to say on this front, aside from that you'll now it when you see it. Stay away from bright colors and logos unless they're luxury logos.
Should I wear a travel backpack in Paris in September?
Unless you're a college kid 'backpacking through Europe' (and I find those aren't the general consumers of my blog content), I would discourage the use of a travel backpack. You definitely won't look like a local, and, frankly, it's a huge pain. You may be asked to check it or wear it on your front at museums, which is just a burden.
Can I wear a crossbody in Paris?
I would not wear a "fanny pack" crossbody bag, unless it's leather. A "crossbody" bag that isn't nylon should be just fine.
Selecting 'pants' for Paris
As far as "pants" go (reminder: Europeans and Brits tend to call them "trousers" or "jeans," as appropriate). I'd include a pair of jeans or two in your Paris suitcase. Be sure the jeans are in good shape (no distressing, no holes in the knees, please!), and a darker wash, unless you're young and cool. Opt for straight jeans, as skinny jeans are out of style in Europe as well as in the USA. A pair of black pants should be in your suitcase as well.
A note on athleisure...
Athletic wear may have swept the States a few years ago, with its dominance showing no sings of abating, but the same cannot (and likely will never) be said for Paris.
DO NOT wear athletic wear, unless you are literally jogging. You can wear black leggings as pants, if you have a long shirt or coat. Light-Weight Base Layers
For wear under that jacket, you'll need enough light layers for your trip. I'd pack things like a light sweater, long-sleeved shirt, and maybe even a short sleeve shirt or two, if you're going in early September.
FAQ: What is the quintessential French shirt?
I promise...you won't look like a mime. French women really do wear those beautiful blue/black and white horizontally striped shirts. They look amazing under that light-weight jacket.
The St James Breton is the mainstay. All of the Scarves
There is truly nothing more French than a scarf. For ladies, a silk, patterned scarf. [In case you're wondering: For men, a thick, wool scarf (generally without pattern)]. Either bring one with you or buy one when you arrive in Paris - I did both!
Chic dresses
For dinners, or warmer tourism days, I'd pack one or two dresses. Maybe a casual dress and a little black dress for evening.
FAQ: Can I wear a Hill House dress in Paris in September?
Yes! You can wear a classic Hill House Ellie dress in Paris in September. I would pair it with a leather jacket or denim jacket, as the French don't show as much skin as we do and you might feel a bit exposed...and chilly.
The Ultimate Paris Packing List for September {10 Days}
Thanks for Stopping By!
I so, so, so appreciate you being here and letting me help you plan your upcoming trip to Paris. I guarantee you will fall in love Paris like millions before you. It's the most beloved city in the world for very good reason. My goal to to help every American tourist feel comfortable and confident while exploring Europe. I hope you'll take a few minutes to explore the many resources I've created to assist Americans in their European adventures. Bon voyage!
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