I’ve held off making my final choices as long as possible, but I think I’m ready to pack. The current forecast for my Paris visit is chilly, with only a couple of days where rain is a possibility.
I’ve re-thought and edited a lot of this wardrobe since I began planning a few weeks ago. I’ve cut back to nine pieces which I think will be plenty, as a) I’ll probably be in my outerwear a good percentage of the time and b) I wanted to keep my luggage light and manageable, and save space for purchases. (This will be a great opportunity to find some holiday gifts!) I’ve gone with three bottoms and six layerable tops and sweaters. The choices may seem a little dull, but I’ve stuck with pieces I know I’ll wear. I’ll rely on scarves to provide color and pattern, as they’ll be most visible with outerwear. And I can always add a new “souvenir” scarf or sweater to the mix.
So, let’s run through the items…
Paris Travel Wardrobe
Shoes
I always start with shoes to build my travel wardrobe, but living where we do I don’t have much in the way of “winter” footwear, at least not that’s made for walking all day. After some deliberating, I decided to stick with two pairs of ankle boots, one of which I’ll wear in transit. I want a backup pair of shoes in off-chance one gets soaked, and because I like to give my shoes a rest between hard wearings.
- I know I’ll be taking these black suede Chelsea boots for sure. They are weatherproof and have passed the all-day-walking test. They look dressy enough for anything I’ll be doing.
- I’m still debating about the second pair. These bordeaux boots are from a few seasons ago (same style here in black), and while I like them from a color standpoint, they are a bit heavy, and not weatherproof beyond what I can add with a spray. I’d prefer something other than black, but most of my other warmer boots are black. Still on the fence…
Layering Tees/Tops
Most of mine are a few seasons old, but here are some similar options:
- Black silk long-sleeve tee
- White cotton long-sleeve tee
- Black silk blouse.
Sweaters
Again, I’ve chosen pieces that I’ve had for a while and are in regular rotation during cooler months. I’ve linked to similar styles.
- Navy boatneck cashmere pullover
- Zipped black cashmere hoodie. (Mine’s about 12 years old and beginning to come apart at the seams; if I find a replacement or something comparable while I’m in Paris, I won’t mind leaving it behind.)
- Navy v-neck cashmere cardigan. (Mine’s the same style from an earlier season.)
Pants
To keep things simple, I decided to stick with slim-leg pants.
- Black ponte knit. These are my go-to’s for travel days, and for sleek comfort. I can hand wash these in a pinch if I have to, and they’ll line dry.
- Dark-wash denim jeans. Jeans are my Default Setting, and I’ve learned not to leave home without at least one pair. This particular pair (similar here) have no distressing, and a slim straight leg, long enough to cover the top of my ankle boots.
- Black sateen jeans. Style like a jean, but look dressy enough to go out to dinner.
Outerwear and Accessories
- Puffer jacket. I decided to go with this parka which is packable and is supposed to be water-resistant. I like that the hood is removable on this style. I’m not taking a raincoat in addition…the forecast being what it is now I really don’t think I’ll need one.
- Scarves. The exact scarves shown above are no longer available, but my preferences for travel are cashmere-silk blends, and wool blends.
- Cashmere beanie. Basic, but will keep my head warm. I may shop for something more interesting in Paris.
- Bag. My trusty sidekick. I’m not taking a second bag.
- Gloves (similar). I’m planning to purchase some warmer gloves once I’m there if needed. (These are all I have aside from my ski mittens, and a fingerless pair.)
- Not shown: a (very) few favorite pieces of jewelry and a folding umbrella.
As always, I allow myself one or two “wild card” pieces that I’ll select at the last moment based on weather and whim. Stay tuned…
