Paris is known as one of the fashion capitals of the world. When getting dressed for dinner in Paris, it’s important to look stylish yet comfortable. The dress code for most nicer restaurants in Paris is smart casual. This means you’ll want to avoid shorts, flip flops, and other overly casual items. However, Parisians do know how to dress down elegantly, so you don’t need to wear a suit or fancy cocktail dress to dinner. Here are some tips on what to wear to dinner in Paris.
For Women
For women, you’ll want to bring some chic and versatile items that can be dressed up or down. Here are some recommendations on what to pack:
- 1-2 daytime dresses – Consider a fit and flare dress or a wrap dress that hits around the knee. Neutral colors like black, navy, gray, or tan are perfect for day or night.
- 1 cocktail dress – Have one dressier option like a little black dress or sequined skirt for going out at night.
- 1 pair of jeans – Dark wash skinny jeans can be paired with heels and a blazer for a night out.
- Blouses – Bring a few nice tops in silky or flowy fabrics that can be tucked into pants or skirts.
- Blazer or jacket – A blazer instantly elevates any outfit.
- Scarf – Scarves are essential for any Parisian outfit. They can dress up basics.
- Flats and heels – Pack one pair of comfortable yet stylish flats for walking around the city during the day. Bring a pair of heels or wedges for evening dinners.
- Accessories – Don’t forget statement jewelry, sunglasses, and a nice handbag.
During the daytime, you might wear dark skinny jeans, ballet flats, a silk blouse, blazer, and scarf. For evening, pair a little black dress with heels and dazzling jewelry. The key is mixing basics with statement pieces and having options that are multifunctional.
For Men
Men visiting Paris will want to bring clothing that is casual yet refined. Here are some tips on assembling the perfect Parisian-inspired capsule wardrobe:
- 1 pair of dark wash jeans – Look for a slim cut pair that can be dressed up.
- 2-3 button down shirts – Solid colors or subtle patterns work well. Make sure they are wrinkle resistant.
- 1 blazer or sport coat – A navy or gray blazer adds polish.
- 1-2 sweaters or cardigans – Great for layering over collared shirts.
- 1 pair of dress pants – Black or gray trousers that can be paired with shirts and blazers for evening.
- 1 tie – Pack one versatile tie like navy, black, or gray.
- Walking shoes – Bring a pair of comfortable yet stylish shoes for daytime wear.
- Dress shoes – Pack one pair of leather dress shoes for dinners out.
- Belt – Don’t forget a belt that coordinates with your pants and shoes.
With these basic items, men can create multiple outfits. Jeans, a button down shirt, and blazer make the perfect daytime outfit. For evening, pair dress pants, a collared shirt, and blazer. And of course, don’t forget the scarf for an instant dose of French flair!
Clothing Tips for Paris
Beyond your wardrobe selections, keep these tips in mind for dressing for dinners in Paris:
- Check the weather forecast and pack layers accordingly. Spring and fall can be cool while summer is often quite warm.
- Leave the sneakers at home and opt for more elegant footwear.
- Dress in neutral colors like black, navy, gray, tan, cream, and white which never go out of style.
- Bring a few statement pieces like bold jewelry, a unique jacket, or designer handbag.
- Pack multifunctional items than can transition from day to night like a wrap dress or blazer.
- Be prepared to walk a lot! Wear comfortable shoes during the day.
- It can be hard to find a public restroom, so dress for layers and minimal fuss.
- Pack a large scarf or pashmina to use as a wrap on cooler days or nights.
What to Wear in Paris by Season
Spring
April and May in Paris bring mild temperatures, but you may encounter some rain showers. Plan for layers and dresses with tights or leggings. Bring a trench coat and scarf in case of chilly weather. Ballet flats or oxfords work well this time of year as you navigate cobblestone streets.
For women: sundresses, ankle pants, cardigans, jackets, ballet flats
For men: pants, light sweaters, jackets, casual blazers, loafers
Summer
Summer in Paris brings warm sunny days perfect for strolling the city. You’ll want breathable, lightweight fabrics in bright colors and prints. Pack open-toed shoes and don’t forget a hat and sunglasses. Maxi dresses and skirts are perfect for staying cool.
For women: maxi dresses, skirts, shorts, tank tops, sandals, sun hats
For men: polos, shorts, loafers, fedoras
Fall
September and October bring cooler weather and more rain. Pack waterproof outer layers like trench coats and boots. Opt for long sleeves and pants in earth tones and dark hues. Scarves and leather jackets add warmth and style.
For women: pants, dresses, boots, leather jackets, scarves
For men: pants, button downs, sweaters, blazers, boots
Winter
Paris winters call for warm layers and coats. Look for wool, cashmere, and knits to keep warm in the colder months. Stay dry with waterproof boots and an umbrella. Don’t forget leather gloves and a fabulous winter hat.
For women: sweaters, wool coats, booties, tights, knit hats
For men: wool sweaters, peacoats, scarves, boots
What to Wear to Different Types of Parisian Restaurants
The dress code can vary depending on the type of restaurant you are dining at. Here are some common Paris restaurant styles and what to wear:
| Restaurant Type | Example Atmosphere | Recommended Attire |
|---|---|---|
| Bistro | Casual, lively | Nice jeans or pants with a blouse, jacket, or sweater |
| Brasserie | Upbeat, casual | Same as bistro |
| Cafe | Relaxed, casual | Very casual, jeans are fine |
| Michelin-starred | Fine dining, elegant | Dress pants or skirt with blouse, jacket, cocktail dress |
If you are unsure of the dress code, it’s always safer to err on the formal side with upscale fabrics and no t-shirts, shorts, hats, or flip flops.
What Parisians Wear
When visiting Paris, it can be helpful to take notes from real Parisians on how they dress. Here are some tips:
- Parisian style is effortlessly chic. Pieces skim the body for a relaxed yet put-together look.
- Darker neutrals like black, navy and gray make up the foundation of most Parisian wardrobes.
- Scarves are worn year-round and add instant French flair.
- Heels are lower with chunkier block heels around 2 inches for practicality walking on cobblestone streets.
- Parisians love their jeans, pairing them with blazers and heels for evening.
- Little black dresses are essential and can be casual or dressy.
- Leather jackets and trench coats are wardrobe staples.
- Parisians layer with cardigans, light scarves and jackets to transition with the weather.
The Parisian aesthetic is slightly dressier than many cities, but the overall vibe remains effortlessly cool. Focus on versatile pieces in dark, neutral colors paired with pops of color or print in scarves and jewelry. Stay away from athletic shoes, sweatpants, baseball caps or overly revealing clothing. Bring out your chic side and have fun getting dressed like a real Parisian!
Top Parisian Brands
When shopping for your Paris trip, consider picking up items from these iconic French brands:
- Chanel – luxe handbags, perfumes, suits
- Louis Vuitton – bags, leather goods, accessories
- Hermès – scarves, ties, Birkin bags
- Chloé – feminine dresses, bags, sunglasses
- Isabel Marant – coolParisian styles, ankle boots
- Sandro – reasonably priced trendy clothing
- Comptoir des Cotonniers – sophisticated separates
- Sézane – romantic Parisian dresses, tops, accessories
- Rouje – flirty dresses
- Yves Saint Laurent – designer handbags, heels
Look for these labels while shopping in Paris for quality pieces with true French style. You may pay more than elsewhere, but the Parisian branding and experience is worth the splurge.
Where to Shop in Paris
Paris is a shopper’s paradise with countless boutiques and department stores to explore. Here are some of the best areas for shopping:
- Champs Élysées – This famous avenue features high end stores like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Sephora plus casual brands like Zara, H&M, Gap.
- Rue Saint Honoré – A luxury shopping destination with designer names like Hermès, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Valentino.
- Marais – Hip boutiques, shoe stores, and French brands like Isabel Marant and Sézane scatter the charming streets.
- Galeries Lafayette – This multi-level department store offers an amazing selection of clothing, beauty, and gourmet food.
- Le Bon Marché – Paris’ first department store and a fashionista favorite located on the Left Bank.
- Printemps – Near the opera house, shop for a mix of French and international luxury brands.
Be sure to wander off the main avenues to find little Parisian boutiques selling the latest trends. Or pick up a chic souvenir at the city’s famous department stores.
Key Pieces to Buy in Paris
If shopping is on your Paris itinerary, look out for these quintessential French items:
- Striped boatneck tops or dresses
- A Breton stripe tee
- A little black dress
- A quilted Chanel bag
- Elegant lingerie from a Parisian department store
- A silk scarf or pocket square
- A beret or cloche hat
- A perfume like Chanel No. 5
- Macarons from Ladurée
- A Charlotte Gainsbourg CD
You’ll find these classic souvenirs scattered throughout Paris’ many shops. Bring home timeless French keepsakes that you’ll treasure for years to come.
Conclusion
Paris is a city that loves fashion, but balances it with an effortless attitude. Focus your Paris wardrobe on quality basics in dark neutrals that you can mix and match. Bring versatile pieces that transition from walking around in the daytime to sitting at a cafe or going out at night. Aim for stylish yet practical shoes you can wear for hours of walking. And of course, don’t forget the accessories like scarves, jewelry, sunglasses, and handbags that give any outfit that je ne sais quoi. Overpacking is better than underpacking for Paris! With a well-edited suitcase, you’ll feel comfortable and confident strolling the streets of this iconic city.