Avoid wearing overly casual attire, such as athletic wear, flip-flops, or baggy clothing, in Paris. The city is known for its sophisticated and chic fashion sense, so blending in requires more polished choices.
While visiting Paris, it’s best to skip anything too flashy, overly branded, or extremely casual, as Parisians favor a more understated and elegant style. During my trips to Paris, I noticed that those who opted for well-fitted, classic pieces tended to feel more comfortable and confident.
What Not To Wear in Paris in the Summer?
Avoid wearing overly casual items like flip-flops, sportswear, or overly revealing clothing in Paris during the summer. Parisian summer style leans toward light, breathable fabrics with a touch of elegance, so leaving behind overly casual or beachwear items is wise. To blend in seamlessly with the locals, keep these points in mind:
- Minimize Loud Prints: Neutral tones and subtle patterns are preferred over flashy logos.
- Skip Flip-Flops: Opt for stylish yet comfortable flats or walking shoes instead.
- Avoid Athletic Wear: Choose tailored shorts or casual dresses over gym attire.
- Stay Modest: Parisian fashion is more refined, so avoid overly revealing outfits.
- Leave Beachwear for the Beach: Stick to city-appropriate attire.
What Not To Wear in Paris As Men?
Avoid wearing overly casual or athletic clothing, such as gym shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops, as a man in Paris. The city’s fashion is sophisticated and polished, so it’s best to steer clear of anything too relaxed or flashy. To fit in with the local style, consider these points:
- Skip Sportswear: Avoid wearing gym shorts, sweatpants, or workout gear unless you’re exercising. Opt for tailored trousers or chinos instead.
- Avoid Tank Tops: Parisian men typically wear more structured tops, like button-down shirts or polo shirts, rather than tank tops.
- Say No to Flip-Flops: Choose leather shoes or stylish sneakers over flip-flops or casual sandals.
- Ditch Oversized Logos: Loud, branded clothing can look out of place. Stick to simple, well-fitted pieces in neutral colors.
- Leave Baggy Clothes Behind: Well-fitted clothing is key in Paris. Avoid baggy jeans or oversized t-shirts for a more refined look.
What Not To Wear in Paris As a Tourist?
Avoid wearing overly casual or touristy items like graphic tees, cargo shorts, and large backpacks when visiting Paris as a tourist. The city’s fashion sense is refined and elegant, so blending in with more polished attire will help you feel more comfortable.
- Graphic Tees and Logos: Opt for simple, understated tops instead of clothing with loud prints or logos.
- Cargo Shorts: Instead of bulky cargo shorts, choose well-tailored trousers or skirts that align with the city’s sophisticated style.
- Flip-Flops and Athletic Shoes: These are better suited for the beach or the gym. Wear comfortable flats or leather sneakers for city walking.
- Large Backpacks: A large, bulky backpack can make you stand out as a tourist. Consider using a sleek, smaller bag or crossbody purse instead.
- Fanny Packs and Travel Pouches: These can signal that you’re a tourist. A stylish, secure bag is a better choice.
What Not To Wear in Paris in January?
Avoid wearing overly light or casual clothing, such as thin jackets, sneakers, or summer accessories, in Paris during January. The winter weather in Paris can be chilly and damp, so it’s important to dress warmly and stylishly. Here’s what to avoid:
- Thin Jackets: Lightweight jackets won’t keep you warm enough. Opt for a heavy coat or insulated outerwear.
- Sneakers: While comfortable, sneakers may not provide enough warmth. Choose leather boots or waterproof shoes with good traction.
- Summer Accessories: Leave behind items like straw hats or light scarves. Instead, bring woolen hats, gloves, and thick scarves.
- Shorts or Skirts Without Layers: January is too cold for bare legs. If you want to wear skirts, pair them with warm tights.
- Open-Toed Shoes: These are impractical for the cold and wet conditions. Stick to closed, weatherproof footwear.
What Not to Wear in Paris in February?
Avoid wearing inadequate layers or non-waterproof footwear in Paris during February. The weather is often cold and wet, requiring practical and warm clothing. Here’s what to skip:
- Short Skirts or Dresses: If wearing skirts, ensure you layer with warm tights or leggings.
- Light Layers: Opt for thick sweaters and warm outerwear instead of light layers.
- Non-Waterproof Shoes: Avoid shoes that aren’t waterproof; choose boots that keep your feet dry.
- Thin Scarves and Gloves: Stick to woolen accessories rather than thin, decorative options.
What Not to Wear in Paris in March?
Avoid wearing spring clothing too early, as March in Paris can still be chilly. Consider leaving these behind:
- Unlined Pants: Consider wearing lined trousers or layering with thermals for added warmth.
- Spring Jackets: It’s still too cold for light jackets; wear a warm coat instead.
- Open Shoes: Keep sandals and open-toed shoes at home; choose boots or closed shoes.
- Light Fabrics: Opt for warmer materials rather than lightweight spring fabrics.
What Not to Wear in Paris in April
Avoid dressing too lightly as the weather in April can be unpredictable in Paris. Here’s what to avoid:
- Bare Legs: Still too chilly for bare legs; opt for tights if you wear skirts or dresses.
- Summer Dresses: It’s better to layer with cardigans or light jackets than to wear sleeveless dresses.
- Lightweight Footwear: Waterproof shoes are still advisable over canvas sneakers.
- Thin Rain Jackets: Consider a more robust raincoat rather than thin, less protective outerwear.
What Not to Wear in Paris in May?
Avoid overly casual or summery attire, as May in Paris can still have cool days.
- Bright, Flashy Colors: Parisian fashion favors neutral, subdued tones over bright, flashy colors.
- Flip-Flops: Stick to closed shoes or stylish flats rather than open-toed sandals.
- Short Shorts: Parisian style leans toward more modest, well-tailored clothing.
- Beachwear: Save swimsuits and cover-ups for beach destinations, not the city.
What Not to Wear in Paris in June?
Avoid wearing overly casual or athletic clothing in Paris during June. While the weather is warmer, Parisian fashion remains chic.
- Loud Prints: Neutral tones are preferred over bright, attention-grabbing prints.
- Athletic Shorts: Choose tailored shorts or casual trousers instead.
- Tank Tops: Opt for a stylish blouse or button-down shirt instead of a tank top.
- Casual Sandals: Stylish flats or leather sandals are more appropriate than casual flip-flops.
What Not to Wear in Paris in July?
Avoid overly casual summer wear like flip-flops and shorts, as July in Paris calls for more refined clothing. Here’s what to skip:
- Large Backpacks: Consider a chic tote or smaller bag instead of a bulky backpack.
- Casual Flip-Flops: Choose stylish sandals or comfortable flats instead.
- Athletic Wear: Replace gym shorts and tank tops with more polished, tailored outfits.
- Bright, Flashy Colors: Stick to neutral, classic colors rather than overly bright or neon shades.
What Not to Wear in Paris in August?
Avoid overly casual, touristy attire in Paris during August, as the city’s style remains polished even in the heat. Avoid these items:
- Bright, Neon Colors: Stick to neutral tones or muted colors that align with Parisian fashion.
- Beachwear: Save swimsuits and cover-ups for the beach, not the city streets.
- Oversized T-Shirts: Opt for fitted tops or blouses instead of baggy shirts.
- Casual Shorts: Tailored shorts or a summer dress are more suitable than casual shorts.
What Not to Wear in Paris in September?
Avoid transitioning into fall fashion too early, as September in Paris can still be warm.
- Boots: Stick to lighter footwear like flats or loafers, as heavy boots can be too warm.
- Heavy Coats: It’s too early for winter wear; choose a light jacket instead.
- Dark, Heavy Fabrics: Lighter materials and brighter colors are more suitable for this transitional month.
- Bulky Scarves: Opt for lighter scarves that can be easily layered or removed.
What Not to Wear in Paris in October?
Avoid dressing too lightly as October brings cooler weather to Paris. Here’s what to avoid:
- Summer Dresses: It’s better to switch to autumnal layers rather than summery outfits.
- Open-Toed Shoes: Choose closed shoes or ankle boots over sandals or flip-flops.
- Thin Jackets: A thicker coat or layered outerwear is more appropriate than a light jacket.
- Bright, Summery Colors: Opt for richer, autumnal tones instead of bright, summery shades.
You Can Also Read: What To Wear in Paris?
What Not to Wear in Paris in November?
Avoid wearing overly light or summery clothing, as November in Paris is typically cold and damp.
- Thin Layers: Opt for warm, layered clothing rather than light, summery outfits.
- Non-Waterproof Shoes: Choose waterproof boots or sturdy shoes instead of sneakers or sandals.
- Summer Accessories: Replace light scarves and hats with woolen versions.
- Bright Colors: Stick to neutral or darker tones that align with the season’s mood.
What Not to Wear in Paris in December?
Avoid wearing insufficiently warm clothing, such as light jackets, open shoes, or summer fabrics, in Paris during December. Here’s what to avoid:
- Casual Sportswear: Parisian winter fashion is more refined, so avoid overly casual or sporty attire.
- Light Jackets: Opt for a warm, insulated coat to protect against the cold.
- Open Shoes: Stick to closed, weatherproof footwear like boots.
- Summer Fabrics: Swap out lightweight materials for warmer, thicker fabrics like wool or cashmere.
FAQs On What Not Wear in Paris?
Flip-flops are generally considered too casual for Paris, even in summer. Choose chic sandals or comfortable flats that align with the city’s elegant style.
Parisians tend to favor neutral, subdued tones. Bright, flashy colors or large logos may make you stand out as a tourist, so it’s best to stick to classic, understated hues.
Tailored shorts can be acceptable in warmer months, but casual shorts, like cargo shorts, are generally frowned upon. Parisian style leans toward more refined and modest clothing.