What I Wore in Paris: A Love Letter to the Trench

Shop the looks here!

As I mentioned in my previous post on What to Pack for Paris in Spring, I like to keep things intentional with a capsule wardrobe approach, and thank goodness I did! Because, as it turns out, we had lots of rain while in Paris. Despite my cute outfit plans, what I actually wore most of the time was incredibly simple and surprisingly repeatable! So yes, if you’re wondering why I’m in a trench coat in nearly every photo… now you know. 😊

Here’s what I wore on heavy rotation:

Most of these pieces have been in my wardrobe for years or are now sold out, so I’ve linked similar options when possible!

  • My forever-reliable trench coat – I found the one I’m wearing on sale at Mango last year. Not the most water-resistant, but it did the trick, especially with an umbrella in hand!

  • Black ankle boots – My MVPs of the trip, kept my feet warm and dry! I’ve had these Chelsea boots from Madewell for years, and they’re still my go-to.

  • Black ballet flats – I also wore my Greta ballet flats on lighter walking days, for a few meetings, and during those rare moments between raindrops. Timeless, comfortable, and polished, perfect for when I wanted a little break from boots.

  • A white button-down shirt – My forever favorite: the Tomboy shirt from Sézane.

  • Denim jeans – Always Madewell. I personally love their Perfect Vintage or Stovepipe fits, both are my staples.

  • A black sweater – I’m wearing a classic black knit from Sézane that I’ve had for years.

  • Go-to purses – For over the shoulder, I brought the Caroline bag from Freja (a forever favorite!). For a smaller option, I reached for a structured black crossbody from Mango that I found on sale a while back - sleek, simple, and so easy to style!

Not quite the fashion fantasy I had mapped out, but honestly? This made the trip better. I was warm, comfortable, and not constantly changing outfits or stressing about what to wear. Instead, I got to soak in the city, baguette in hand, trench blowing in the wind (and rain).

It also reminded me that the best outfits are the ones you actually enjoy wearing! I’d rather feel good and live in the moment than freeze for the sake of a new look. Plus, repeating outfits in Paris? Chic. Efficient. French.

What This Trip Taught Me:

✔️ Trench coats go with everything!
✔️ You don’t need more options, just better ones…
✔️ Rain is a great excuse to romanticize your walk anyway!
✔️ A capsule wardrobe works even when your weather app lies to you…
✔️ Outfit repeating is not only allowed - it’s encouraged!

And yes, I absolutely shopped while I was there. Did I mention it rained a lot? Rain = perfect excuse to explore boutiques and discover a few new wardrobe gems. I can’t wait to show you what I found!

Whether you’re planning a trip or just browsing for capsule inspiration, I hope this reminds you that great style isn’t about having something new every day, it’s about building a wardrobe that lets you fully enjoy the day!

Shop the looks here!

With Amour,

M.

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