Style and fashion are important in France. My cousin, Jean-Marc, recently told me that he had no luck with the ladies until he “bought his first pair of Italian shoes.” However, even with a good percentage of French blood pumping through my own veins, every time I find myself in France I look longingly at the always impeccably dressed and stylish French ladies and wonder why they’ve got it going on so much more than I do. Suffice it to say, I will never be as sleek, stylish or thin as most of these French women, but that doesn’t mean I want to walk around Paris sporting a fanny pack and socks with sandals. And, while I may never look quite so effortlessly perfect as the French women always seem to, I have spent enough time living and traveling in France that I think I can do a pretty good job of looking like a local in France.
While simply wrapping a scarf around your neck, buying a pair of great boots and sporting a peacoat are perfect when wondering what to wear in France in the winter, this is not so much the case for warmer weather apparel. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned French traveler, you still may need some pointers on what to pack for your French vacation this summer.
>>Wondering what else to do in France in the summer? Check out my France in July and my France in August posts
My Tips to looking French-abulous
Ditch the shorts—Yes this rule applies to both women AND men. The French just don’t rock the shorts. Although in recent years I have been seeing some women’s hot pant style shorts surfacing in stores in Paris, shorts in general are just not worn by men or women in France. For that lucky 1% of ladies who look great in the booty short variety and feel like wearing a pair with a sassy top and a pair of heels, go for it (though don’t think you’re going to be able to waltz through any churches in that outfit). For the rest of us, opting for a skirt instead is probably the best route. If you have a stylish pair of fitted Bermuda shorts (knee length, fitted shorts) these are also acceptable (please note the words stylish and fitted). 
For guys, I know you LOVE those khaki cargo shorts and practically live in them all summer, but I’ve got news for you—these won’t fly in Frog country. Not only will you stand out from kilometers away as an American, you may have a hard time getting into churches, nice restaurants and nightclubs while wearing them. If you don’t care about looking like an American tourist, than by all means wear your cargo shorts—but don’t count on a) being able to pick up any hot French babes while wearing them b) getting into any nightclubs or c) be mistaken for a local.
Don’t wear flip-flops—I love flip-flops, you love flip-flops, we all love flip-flops. But, this does not mean you should sport them around Paris on a day of sightseeing. Not only are they not great walking shoes, but especially in Paris you’ll find your feet completely filthy almost immediately. While these sandals are great for short walks to the beach, they are not stylish footwear to sport in France. We’re not in California guys and gals, so swap that pair of flip-flops for a more stylish pair of sandals (and, please, whatever you do, please don’t wear any of these options with socks. Ever.)
Spring for a skirt or dress—This obviously applies to the ladies, but since shorts are pretty much a big no-no in France, you are going to have to find an equally cool alternative for those hot summer months of July and August in France. Skirts and light dresses are perfect summer wear for ladies in France. Not only does wearing a skirt or dress keep you cool and allow for plenty of ventilation, but you’ll also look totally fabulous. Personally I’m a fan of the light and casual sun dress—they take up less room in your suitcase than separate pants and bottoms, require less thinking when getting dressed, keep you cool and look great.
Be brave, break out the manpris—Now you may have to wait until you are actually in France to find a pair of manpris (man Capri pants), but once you have crossed the Atlantic you should have no problem picking up a pair of these things. Since shorts are out for guys and they can’t wear skirts, manpris are a good choice. Now, I’m not suggesting you wear manpris with fringed bottoms and decorative glitter clogs like I once saw on a guy in Italy, but a stylish pair of manpris and sandals or stylish tennies and you’ll be fitting right in.
Leave Leisure wear at home—So, I know you think your juicy velor sweat suit is just TOO cute, but that doesn’t mean you should wear it out in public. The French tend to have a more elevated version of what’s casual–and hoodies, sweat pants and athletic wear just doesn’t cut it in France. Keep it in the hotel or keep it at home all together.
Tube socks and white tennis shoes are a no-no—Yes, I understand that it is important to have comfortable walking shoes on when you are exploring France, but that doesn’t mean you have to wear your sneakers with white tube socks and shorts. You will see the trendy, “puma” like tennis shoes on young Parisians, but if you want to blend in, leave at home your white tennis/running shoes. We know that these shoes are comfortable and built for mileage, but white tennis shows are the tell-tale sign of “American Tourist”. Truthfully, when I see white shoes in a sea of black, I know that it is a fellow American in Paris. Don’t make yourself an easy mark for pickpockets and just leave ‘em at home.
Invest in shoes designed for walking (Recommended brands are Ecco, Mephisto, or Dansko). One day of climbing steps up monuments and navigating cobblestoned corridors and you’ll understand why these sturdy European brands are so popular among Parisians . Or, wear a pair of flats, loafers or short-heeled boots that have been battle-tested at home for walking.
Leave your baseball cap at home—You love the Yankees and you may want everyone in France to know this, but the truth is that wearing a baseball cap in France is sure-fire way to stand out as an American tourist. The French just don’t sport these types of hats, and you’ll definitely stick out like a sore thumb if you do. The French also find it rude to wear hats inside and during meals. You also definitely won’t be able to go clubbing in Paris wearing one either. You’re best off just leaving it home.
There’s nothing wrong with basic black (or other neutrals)–Since you can’t bring your entire closet with you when you are traveling to France, you’ll want to stick with basic, neutral items that go with almost everything. Not only will this save you room in your bag, but you’ll also look classy. If you want to punch up your outfit, add scarves (of the silk variety in the summer) and other accessories.
Ditch the Fanny Pack—This is actually not a bad idea for right here in the United States, but you’ll especially want to heed this advice when traveling in France. If you want to embody the cliché of an American tourist in France, all you have to do is strap on one of these bad boys and put your camera around your neck and you’re good to go. However, if you are trying to avoid looking like a bad cliché, leave the fanny pack at home and opt for a backpack, a purse, a tote—anything that isn’t a fanny pack. ALSO, while backpacks are fine for that hike in the south of France or your day-trip to Mont Saint-Michel, pick something more stylish and sleek for the streets of Paris.
Keep in mind that no matter how hard you try you probably won’t look quite as stylish as your French counterparts, but that doesn’t mean you can’t blend in. When I was living in France, I always cherished the moments when I was asked for directions in French or when people were surprised to learn I had an accent. When in doubt, dress nicer than you think is necessary, remember there is definitely such thing as too casual in France, and dress your age. If you look the part, you may even get better treatment when you are out and about.
Photo © Alain Bachellier flickr
{ 21 comments… read them below or add one }
Very helpful! When I went to France two summers ago I rocked both shorts and flip-flops. I definitely got my fair share of disapproving stares. I would encourage people to avoid both of these American fashion staples to avoid having “Tourist” stamped all over you…
I learned the wrong way (not in France but in another western European country) that wearing top tanks is a sure way NOT to get into ANY church!
I still wear my trusty capri pants though and stylish walking shoes (think branded kinda expensive).
You obviously know nothing about fashion, and how can you try to assume that nobody will look as good as the French? That automatically insults everyone who reads this that is not French!
I just returned from France, and lots of people on the street were asking me questions in French, & I assume its because i did not look like a badly dressed tourist. I got compliments on my clothing from people working at shops i bought from, all the men were flirting with me and a few women even asked me where i got my boots from.
And I didn’t read any articles on the internet about what to wear in France before i left.
It is now May 20th and I got back from Paris a little over 2 weeks ago. I can assure you the women ARE wearing shorts. Just not the same way that some people in other countries would wear them. It was very common to see women wearing a nice pair of shorts with black stockings or leggings underneath them.
People say that you are not suppose to wear a sock of any sort with sandals Right? Well i saw a lot of fashionable looking people doing that. A lot of women were wearing Gladiator sandals, with black stockings & some with SHORTS, skirt or a dress. Even some were wearing actual socks with pumps and all sorts of dress shoes. That was the look this spring. That and skinny jeans, boots of every kind, Chuck Taylor shoes, the old ked style shoes, and leather jackets. And of course the scarf. Then Harem pants, high waist skirts & high waist jean SHORTS…Earrings or some piece of jewelry always seemed to tie their outfits together no matter how subtle the piece.
The point is, you can make anything look fashionable, it really just depends what you put it with. And don’t let articles you find online or otherwise tell you whats “in” or whats not in. The people who write these things probably don’t even do any research before hand & to anyone who has recently been to Paris it is definitely clear that this author did not.
Hi New Shooz,
Thanks for your additions on the great looks you saw in Paris on your recent trip. I agree that the French always seem to have a great piece of jewelry or a scarf that pulls the whole look together.
Now, first off, I would like to point out that I NEVER said “nobody will look as good as the French,” but rather that I, myself, me, Julie Blakley, would never feel like I looked as good as the French ladies. To quote myself: “every time I find myself in France, I look longingly at the always impeccably dressed and stylish French ladies and wonder why they’ve got it going on so much more than I do. Suffice it to say, I will never be as sleek, stylish or thin as most of these French women…” This statement was about ME personally and nowhere did I say or imply this applies to anyone else.
Second, if you re-read my section on shorts, you will see that I write you DO see French women in shorts–just as you said, they don’t wear them like they do in other countries. I was pointing out more that Americans especially should not think the French wear shorts the same way we do at home. I do emphasize that shorts are ok when done right.
Also, you said that you saw stockings with gladiator sandals and socks with pumps. Great. Last time I checked, stockings were not socks and pumps were not sandals. If you see a Parisian in tevas or Birkenstocks with socks, let me know. I’ve certainly never seen it. I stick by my advice of avoiding the socks with sandals look. It’s a good general rule–in France or not.
I agree with you that you can make almost anything look fashionable if you pair it with the right things. I’m all about creativity when it comes to fashion. I in no way wrote this article intending to reveal the latest trends or discuss what’s in or what’s not. This was more of a guide with practical, general tips to help people pack for France who may have never been and don’t know what to expect.
Lastly, while I appreciate your input and I’m glad “all the men were flirting with” you, you probably shouldn’t assume I have not been to Paris recently or did not do any research before I wrote this article. Neither of those statements are correct. You can disagree with my opinions on what to wear in France without insulting me or questioning my integrity.
I also make no claims to be a fashion expert. This post simply shared my observations from my time living in and visiting France. I only give my advice on a good set of basic rules to keep in mind when packing for France. That’s all.
Thanks Julie….this is very helpful…I’ve been a little obsessed with what to wear for my upcoming July trip to Paris. The footwear issue is especially a concern. Lokoing at ECCO sandals since I’ll be wearing skirts and capris to keep cool…..hmmm…wonder if I can get my husband to consider manpris! lol….What about the kids? I have girls (8 and 12) Would capris and/or long shorts/skirts with tees be ok?
Hi Macanelli,
I wouldn’t stress TOO much about what to wear for your upcoming trip to Paris. As a general rule of thumb (and my best piece of advice) is to remember that the Parisians define casual very differently from us americans. when in doubt, dress up nicer. Any nicer looking sandal (no flip flops) work great–just make sure they are comfortable since you’ll prob do lots of walking.
In terms of the kids, same general rule applies. Elevate casual and you’ll be fine. Kids are kids, though, so they can get away with pretty much anything.
Have fun on your trip
I agree with newshooz - this article is rubbish. I am stylish and i look as good as the next person French or not. When reading newshooz’s post i find that she said “people say you are not suppose to wear a sock of any kind with with sandlas’. The fact that she said she saw some women wearing gladiator shoes with tights doesnt mean that was all she was referring to. To me - a person that can comprehend what i read - that was just and example. And last time i checked the definition of sock is: silk hose, pantyhose, garter stockings, sheer stockings, rayon hose, seamless hose, support hose, cotton hose, mercerized hose, nylon stockings, full-fashioned stockings, golf hose, mesh stockings, fishnet stockings, tights; bed socks, baby socks, ankle socks, tube socks, sweat socks, crew socks, athletic socks, knee socks, bobby socks. Its something that covers your foot and you - the person who thinks you know how to dress to the point where you come on here and tell others they cant - said not to wear socks with sandals. And what does the fact that pumps are not sandals have to do with anything? Again to me - a person who can comprehend what i read was just an example to say that following fashion rules are for narrow minded people such as yourself.
Oh and ps “Keep in mind that no matter how hard you try you probably won’t look quite as stylish as your French counterparts”. I am hearing the words you and not the word i so this hear “Now, first off, I would like to point out that I NEVER said “nobody will look as good as the French,” but rather that I, myself, me, Julie Blakley, would never feel like I looked as good as the French ladies” is just a lie to cover up the fact that are insulting people. What you think we all cant read?
I agree with the other posters,this article is a load of crap. Fanny packs, sweatshirts and white tennis shoes all worn together will always make you stand out as a tourist and the reason to avoid these is to avoid being targeted by pickpocketers. Otherwise, the French dress much like everyone else in the world and telling American tourists they aren’t ’stylish’ enough to go on a vacation is insulting. This thread in Fodors, with hundreds of shots of real Parisians going about their day in a non-touristy neighborhood in the summer shows them wearing shorts, flip flops, baseball caps, backpacks, and, horror-of-horrors, white tennis shoes.
http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/paris-summer-fashion-reality-check.cfm
Many of these people look like they could be walking down the street in any American city. Stop perpetuating this myth that you need to dress up any differently to enjoy Paris.
Yikes!!! Sounds like some real hating going on here! Personally, I appreciate the advise. Incidentally,
the thing about advise is this…..you can take it or you can leave it! Julie, thanks for sharing your observations and experiences with us. I know I really do no want to look like a bit ol’ dork when I visit Paris, so I for one will take to heart your “advise”! Merci…
Thanks for the positive feedback, Mary. People are certainly entitled to their opinions and have a right to disagree with me and think this article is “total rubbish.” I never claimed that my opinion was the rule, these are just some of my tips and advice. Take it or leave it, but I stand by what I wrote.
Just back from the Loire Valley and Paris (August 2009). Before leaving, we looked up a number of sites on what kind of clothing we should bring with us (especially for men) - notably this site. Every site consulted stated that flip flops were a definite NO, that men never wear flip flops or shorts, that women mostly wear dresses and men mostly pants or capris. This information was all wrong. In the Loire, there were no tourists, just locals. It was hot and men and women alike wore shorts, tank tops, flip flops, at times jeans. It was basically the same in Paris - in fact, we were shocked at the level of fashion in Paris. The only thing that holds true is that high waisted jeans, baseball caps and white sneakers mark you as an American tourist. Beyond that, all the new clothes you may be convinced to buy from blogs like this one will be a waste of money and remain un-worn.
This was a great “what not to wear” article, but what about the “what to wear” tips? I don’t even own sweatpants or shorts, but still would like to know what would be stylish from the rest of my wardrobe. Is my denim mini ok? Or should I wear my floral knee length rayon skirt instead? It’s easy to say what not to where, but I want something more insightful!
I like your ideas but can you offer help for autumn and spring. I am going to take 3 pairs of black slacks/jeans that are well fitted and several 3/4 or long sleeve simple cotton tops. I don’t wear scarves here in the US but I am certainly in the correct age range (60) and I think that is a great idea.
I am wearing dark brown walking shoes. I have bum feet and I really need to protect them if I am going to be walking a lot. I appreciate your comments. I’m not sure if I should bring a heavy winter jacket (late October) or just hope that layering works. ? I would appreciate your comments.
Thanks,
Bonnie
First off, if so many of you are in disagreement about the content of the article and think you can dress yourself fine, then why are you looking up HOW TO DRESS IN PARIS IN THE FIRST PLACE??? I had to click several times in other articles to actually find an article like this, so that means new shooz and whimsey, you were looking for fashion advice for a vacation to Paris. people like you think they can insult the writer just becuase they can anonymously. People like you reinforce the stereotypes of intolerant and unopen Americans. I personally went to Italy this summer, and was personally disgraced by my older cousin (She’s 18) because all she wore were her ugg boots, long grossly ripped true religion jeans and her senioritis tshirts. LAME. Let me just say it was about 90 degrees everyday. She would have benifitted from reading articles like these. The point is, if you think you have better advice, write your own article. And based on the way you (New shooz and whimsey) treat other people by insulting them, you probably won’t get very many readers because you are waay too opinionated about something as ridiculous as French fashion. Don’t be so literal about the sock thing, you are just being immature. It’s just disgusting when people where socks and sandals/pumps/heels/who cares?.
As for myself, I am going to Paris and London this coming summer on a tour with my mother for my 17th birthday. It seems like we are going to see a play and ride the chunnel and visit some palaces. I need a versatile wardrobe that will allow me to do all of these things. What do you suggest? Dresses were wonderful in Italy and I did wear black longer (but not bermuda) shorts. Actually what would be your top 7 things to bring to Paris for a vacation clothing/shoe/accessory-wise?
Thanks for this article. I’m taking my 1st trip to Paris this summer and appreciate tips of what not to wear. Flip-flops are a summer staple for me so it’s good to know that I should leave those at home. Thanks again and keep up the helpful tips!
I’m going to France this summer on a trip with my french teacher and this article helped reinforce everything she told me to bring and not to bring. She’s knows France better then she knows America so I think this article is accurate. Thanks for the tips! And I also thought it was quite comical reading this silly cat fight about who’s more fashionable in France. I think if you’re offended by this article you should do some self-esteem boosting exercises or read some self-help books instead of personally attacking the author because there’s obviously nothing offensive written in this article. But anyway, good tips!
ok….for all of those people who said things about this article being rubbish….WHY DID YOU READ IF YOU KNOW BETTER?! better yet, where’s YOUR article?
julie, i am planning my first trip to paris. i also have a very dear friend who is from france. i am always shaking my head at how she can “dress up” a pair of nice capris and how even her jeans and sweaters are stylish. i took a trip to the caribbean with her and on a snorkel cruise, she wore a tasteful one piece, even thought she has the body for a two piece. i asked her, “lae, i know you have bikinis. what’s the deal?” she said, “i do, but that is not for here.”
the bottom line is that americans, no matter WHERE they go, seem have the “tourist outfits.” to me that’s lazy - sorry. paris is a city of fashion. you’re not suggesting everyone go buy a new wardrobe - just up their fashion sense a bit.
Funny article, I have to agree with some posters here you are insulting in the way you chose to word the article but can we expect no less from a American in Paris I think not; thank God I have no problem dressing myself in an apropriate manner.
In most cities it is more appropriate to dress up not just Paris so I think people should take your article for what it is worth free advice. We spot touriss t a mile away here in Washington D.C. too the tacky dress you described gives them away.
Remember free advice means you will recieve many free opinions on your advice as well it is not someone hating on you they are freely expressing their very own views too so you have a very blessed day and relax it is all free after all no worries Ces’t la vie
Best Regards,
Lise Monroe
I appreciate your observation Julie. I have travel thru France a few times and agree with you. I fit in fine and got along well everywhere I went. The only time people were rude was if I was in a hurry dining (because I was late for an appointment), I also did get looks when I wore flip flops but I did’t care one bit because I love flip flops and I have enough common sense not to wear them in certain places. I learned enough French before I traveled out of common courtesy as well and found that I was received everywhere very warmly and had an excellent time. It seemed clear to me that the writers New Shooz and Whimsey (IF they are two separate writers) might have been a little on the narcissistic side and although they might have better fashion sense than most Americans when it comes to French style. They suffer from “EVERYthing is about meness” this tends to be age related tho and most likely will pass with time…Anyway, Thanks for the tips I found them accurate and nicely put so that it most likely is easily digestable to anyone with a sincere desire to blend a little more while in France..
Regards,
L
I appreciate your observation Julie. I have travel thru France a few times and agree with you. I fit in fine and got along well everywhere I went. The only time people were rude was if I was in a hurry dining (because I was late for an appointment), I also did get looks when I wore flip flops but I did’t care one bit because I love flip flops and I have enough common sense not to wear them in certain places. I learned enough French before I traveled out of common courtesy as well and found that I was received everywhere very warmly and had an excellent time. It seemed clear to me that the writers New Shooz and Whimsey (IF they are two separate writers) might have been a little on the narcissistic side and although they might have better fashion sense than most Americans when it comes to French style. They suffer from “EVERYthing is about meness” this tends to be age related tho and most likely will pass with time…Anyway, Thanks for the tips I found them accurate and nicely put so that it most likely is easily digestible to anyone with a sincere desire to blend a little more while in France..
Regards,
L