Packing for Paris – with only what fits in a backpack

I always try to be fashionable when I travel (and of course day-to-day) but there are a couple cities where fashion REALLY matters and packing for Paris is certainly one of them. If not at the top of the list then it is a tie with New York… after all, they do both host some pretty impressive Fashion Weeks…

When it came to packing for our three-day weekend in Paris – and being limited to only a backpack to hold things – I tried to be very strategic about my options.

What I Packed

Outfits

I couldn’t pack lots of “pieces” and create outfits in Paris – there was not enough room in my backpack for that – so I figured out the exact outfit for day and night before we left.

Using what I have heard about Parisians and their style, I tried to pack items that were simple, not too flashy, not too much color or pattern work, and fit well, all while staying true to my own sense of style.

In the end, I packed a black romper, lace shorts with a breezy blouse, dressy “joggers” with a structured crop top, a blue dress, and a black midi-dress (that I didn’t end up wearing).

Shoes

I knew we would be doing a lot of walking and I assumed the roads would be cobblestone and rough like most of Europe (I was right) so I packed flat shoes in the form of oxfords and slip-ons that could handle walking but also transition from night to day as well as fit casual and dressy vibes. That sounds like a lot to ask of a shoe but by sticking with metallic I was able to meet the mark. A sleek shoe with a little shine is a perfect accessory and silver and gold are neutrals so one or the other can go with everything.

Hair and Makeup

Again, I have heard that “Parisian style” should be effortless and chic, so I kept my makeup natural, with only powder foundation, blush, eyeliner, and mascara. I used chapstick or a matte stain for my lips. Honestly most of the time I had sunglasses on anyways so who could even tell??

It was SO hot all weekend that I needed to keep my hair up so I mixed it up with simple styles like a high ponytail – with hair wrapped around the hair-tie to elevate the look just slightly, a top-knot, and french-braids pulled into a bun (can’t go wrong with French braids in France, right?)

We had such an amazing time and everyone was SO nice to us. When I was telling some people about that they responded “Well, you were probably polite…and dressed like you weren’t a tourist.” I can only hope so! The Nikon is probably a sure give away but I certainly tried my hardest.

I can’t wait to share more about our trip with you so keep checking back for new posts!

Xx

Kali