What to Pack for Paris in Spring: 7 Outfit Ideas from a Simple Capsule
When it comes to packing for Paris in the spring, I always like to take a capsule approach. It keeps things simple, chic, and makes getting dressed each day a breeze. Instead of trying to plan out every single outfit, I focus on a few intentional pieces that can be styled multiple ways!
So, what’s the weather like in Paris in spring?
April in Paris can be unpredictable, you can expect mild temperatures ranging from the low 50s to mid 60s°F (around 10 to 18°C), with a mix of sunshine and sudden showers! Mornings and evenings tend to be cooler, so layering is essential for staying comfortable throughout the day!
Think of this guide as an easy base you can build on with your personal touch! Whether it’s adding a pop of color with a purse, belt, or scarf, swapping out flats for sneakers if you’ll be walking a lot, or packing one dressier look for dinner out, it’s all about making it your own! And of course, you can always pick up something beautiful while shopping in Paris: a new pair of heels, a statement belt, or that perfect piece that catches your eye in a boutique!
Outfit Ideas:
Shopping in Le Marais
Le Marais is known for its charming boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafés tucked into cobblestone streets. For a day spent weaving in and out of stores, I opted for a polished yet comfortable look: a black cardigan, white trousers, ballet flats, and a structured crossbody bag. It’s effortless but elevated. Perfect for one of Paris’ most stylish neighborhoods.
Morning at Café de Flore
Start your day like a true Parisienne at the iconic Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Whether you're meeting a friend or journaling solo with a café crème, you’ll feel right at home in wide-leg jeans, a crisp white button-down, a trench coat, and subtle gold jewelry. This outfit feels timeless and relaxed. Just like the morning vibe.
Wandering Rue Saint-Honoré
Rue Saint-Honoré is a fashion lover’s dream, lined with designer boutiques and concept stores. I styled a striped sweater with tailored black trousers and ankle boots for a look that feels chic and ready for a bit of window-shopping. This outfit is elevated but still practical enough to explore the area on foot.
Gallery & Museum Hopping
From the Louvre to smaller gems like Musée Rodin, you’ll want to be comfortable while still looking polished. I chose a layered look with a button-down shirt under a cardigan, paired with classic denim and sneakers. Ideal for a full day on your feet with plenty of walking and art-filled inspiration.
Luxembourg Garden Stroll
Luxembourg Gardens is one of my favorite places to slow down in the city. Whether you're reading on a green chair or strolling beneath the trees, a striped sweater, trench coat, and wide-leg jeans strike that perfect balance between comfort and elegance. I wore my ankle boots here often and they held up beautifully on the gravel walkways.
A Walk Through Palais Royal
With its striped columns and picturesque courtyard, Palais Royal is both peaceful and photogenic. Tuck a white shirt into pleated black trousers and add ballet flats for a classic, tailored silhouette that feels right at home among the polished Parisian architecture.
Flower Shopping on Rue Cler
Rue Cler is one of Paris’ most beloved market streets. Perfect for picking up blooms, cheese, or a quick bite. For this look, I paired white trousers with a striped sweater and added a black belt to define the waist. A crossbody and comfortable flats keep the outfit functional without losing any Parisian charm.
Packing Tips:
Leave some room for shopping: While it’s tempting to overpack, I always recommend keeping space in your suitcase. Paris is filled with incredible places to shop (I’ll be sharing some of my favorite spots in an upcoming post, so be sure to stay tuned!), and if you plan ahead, you can save room for a new pair of heels, a statement bag, or that perfect vintage find!
Layers are your best friend: Paris spring weather can shift throughout the day! I love styling a cardigan or sweater over a button-down or t-shirt and a classic trench coat is the perfect outer layer to tie it all together! It’s lightweight, timeless, and adds just the right amount of coverage when the temperature drops or a light rain rolls in!
Shoes matter: If you plan to wander around the gardens or stroll through parks, keep in mind the walkways are often made of a sand-like gravel. When dry, your shoes may get dusty, and when wet, things can get muddy. I ended up wearing my black ankle boots quite a bit on my latest trip!
Expect sunshine and showers: Spring in Paris often includes both. If you forget to pack an umbrella, you can easily pick one up while you’re there. Many hotels even provide them! But I recommend not leaving your place without one since the weather can change quickly!
Choose a crossbody bag: I prefer a structured crossbody to keep all my essentials close. It’s practical, polished, and ideal when walking through more crowded areas. I usually keep my hand on it in busy spots to avoid any pickpocketing!
Whether you're planning your first Parisian adventure, heading back for another dreamy getaway, or simply looking for inspiration to build your own timeless capsule wardrobe, I hope this guide helps you feel confident, stylish, and prepared! Bon voyage!
With Amour,
M.