What to Wear in Paris for Men to Blend in with Locals

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on what to wear in Paris for men! In the city of lights, where fashion is as important as your morning croissant, style is key. Whether you're strolling along the Seine, exploring iconic landmarks, or enjoying the local cafés, we’re here to help you create the perfect outfits to embody Parisian men’s style effortlessly without overpacking. Let’s start this style journey together!

Source: Unplash, by Alexander Kagan

How To Dress In Paris For Men To Meet Parisian Fashion

Embarking on your Parisian adventure means entering a world where fashion is integral to daily life. Before diving into the packing list, here's some practical advice from our travel experience on what to wear in Paris for men to master the Parisian style and blend in effortlessly with the locals.

Embrace Minimalism: French fashion is diverse, but most men dress minimally and casually. Parisians value practicality and comfort. The Parisian style emphasizes simplicity and effective color coordination. Focus on simple, well-fitted pieces in neutral tones without excessive colors. We recommend a casual yet stylish look, such as country club casual or business casual.
Invest in Quality Basics: High-quality basics are a cornerstone of Parisian style. Opt for pieces like a well-fitted navy blazer, a crisp white shirt, and a pair of dark trousers. These staples can be mixed and matched effortlessly.
Tailoring is Key: Fit is everything in Parisian fashion. Europeans prefer well-fitted clothing over baggy or oversized clothes.
Stick to Neutral Colors: Parisian men often favor a neutral color palette with blacks, whites, grays, and navy blues. Black clothing is often recommended for blending in and looking stylish. These colors are versatile and exude a timeless appeal. Add a pop of color with accessories like a scarf or pocket square.
Layer Thoughtfully: Paris weather can be unpredictable, so layering is essential. Combine a lightweight sweater with a tailored coat and a stylish scarf. This not only keeps you warm but also adds depth to your look.
Accessorize with Purpose: Accessories should be subtle yet impactful. A classic leather watch, a refined belt, or a tasteful hat can elevate your outfit without overpowering it.
Opt for Smart Footwear: Shoes are a critical component of Parisian style. Choose polished leather shoes for formal occasions and stylish yet comfortable loafers or sneakers in white or single-color ones like Adidas Stan Smith or Veja for casual outings are our recommended ones. Sandals and flip-flops are less common and considered less practical.
Emulate Effortlessness: The key to Parisian fashion is looking effortlessly stylish. Avoid overdoing it and aim for a look that appears naturally put together.
Blend Fashion with Functionality: Paris is a city meant for walking, so ensure your outfits are as functional as they are fashionable. The emphasis is on practical, comfortable clothing.

As you can see, a Parisian men's travel wardrobe is not a mystery but is all about minimalism, complemented by quality basics, thoughtful layering, and smart accessories to achieve an effortlessly stylish and practical look. Now, let’s move forward with more detailed advice on seasonal outfits and must-have pieces for your Parisian packing list.

What To Wear In Paris For Men in Summer

The city in summer offers a delightful experience, with temperatures typically ranging from 68°F to 81°F. To ensure you stay cool, comfortable, and stylish while strolling through Parisian streets, let's explore the essential pieces for your summer wardrobe for a one-week trip:

2-3 Comfortable T-Shirts and Polo: Pack a mix of plain and subtly patterned t-shirts and polo in breathable fabrics. White, navy, and gray are great base colors that can be easily paired with shorts or trousers. Consider the X Cotton Tee which combines softness and breathability with a modern design, perfect for your Parisian men's wardrobe. The X Cotton Polo offers a more classic look with the same lightweight and breathable fabric, making it an excellent choice for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
1-2 Short-Sleeve Shirts: Opt for short-sleeve shirts made from breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and merino wool blends to stay cool during warm days. Choose light and airy colors like white, light blue, and pastel shades, which are perfect for summer and reflect heat. The Outbound Camp Collar Shirt in Pacific or Elm, with its stylish design and comfortable perforated fabric, and the Limitless Merino Short Sleeve Shirt, known for its odor resistance and breathability, are excellent choices for versatility. These shirts can be easily dressed up with casual pants for a dinner out or paired with shorts for a casual daytime look.
1-2 Lightweight Shirts: Opt for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton to keep cool. Look for classic button-downs in neutral colors and subtle patterns to mix and match effortlessly. The Western Rise X Cotton Shirt is made from lightweight, breathable cotton fabric, comes in classic designs and neutral colors, making it easy to mix and match with other pieces while being comfortable to wear.
1-2 Tailored Shorts: Choose well-fitted shorts that hit just above the knee. Stick to neutral colors like navy, khaki, and beige for versatility. Lightweight materials like cotton and linen are ideal for staying comfortable in the heat. The Evolution Short is a great choice for tailored, versatile shorts, made from lightweight fabric, perfect for warm travel days.
2-3 Casual Trousers: A pair of light, breathable trousers in fabrics like cotton or linen will keep you comfortable while providing a polished look for evenings out. Neutral colors like beige or light gray work well with any top. Consider the AT Pant, crafted from a breathable fabric with stretch and durability, perfect for both daytime and evening activities. The Evolution Chino in Dune is another excellent summer option, offering a versatile, polished look with its lightweight, quick-drying fabric for comfort and style throughout your trip.
1 Lightweight Jacket: Evenings in Paris can be cool, so bring a lightweight jacket. A stylish overshirt or blazer jacket can be perfect for adding an extra layer without feeling too heavy.
Underwear & Socks: Pack enough for each day plus a few extras, or less if you plan to do laundry. Include lightweight, breathable socks, and no-show socks for summer footwear.
2-3 Stylish Footwear: A pair of minimalist sneakers and a pair of loafers will cover all your footwear needs. Look for shoes with breathable materials and good support for long days of walking.
Accessories: Classic sunglasses with UV protection, a lightweight scarf for sophistication and a bit of warmth on cooler evenings, and a stylish hat or sun cap to protect from the sun while enhancing your overall look are essential when packing for a summer trip to Paris.
Daypack: Additionally, a sleek daypack is a must for carrying your essentials while exploring the city. Messenger bags worn diagonally across the body or traditional crossbody bags are common and practical.

These key items will help you make the most of your visit, keeping you comfortable, fresh, and stylish during hot summer travel in Paris while ensuring your packing remains light.

What to Pack for Paris for Men: Spring and Fall List

Spring and fall travel in Paris offer a magical experience year-round. However, the weather during these seasons can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and fluctuating temperatures. Spring temperatures typically range from 52°F to 65°F, while fall brings cooler temperatures averaging 50°F to 63°F, along with occasional rain. Let’s look into how to adapt your travel capsule wardrobe to changing weather while staying comfortable and stylish throughout your trip:

1-2 Casual Shirts: Opt for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton to keep cool during warmer spring days and layered under sweaters in fall. Look for classic button-downs in neutral colors and subtle patterns to mix and match effortlessly. For example, the Merino Button Down Shirt is made from a lightweight, breathable Merino wool fabric and comes in classic designs and neutral colors. The fabric is quick-drying and wrinkle-resistant, perfect for travel to Paris where you need to keep your look polished.
1-2 Long-Sleeve Shirts: As temperatures drop, opt for long-sleeve shirts in materials like cotton or light wool. These provide warmth without being too heavy, perfect for layering. A merino wool long-sleeve shirt is an excellent choice for fall, offering lightweight insulation and moisture-wicking properties.
1-2 Comfortable T-Shirts, Henley, or Polo: Pack a mix of plain and subtly patterned t-shirts in breathable fabrics that can be easily layered in fall. The X Cotton Tee or Cotton Henley combines softness and breathability with modern design, versatile colors, and high quality, perfect as the first layer of your Parisian wardrobe.
Casual Trousers: Tailored trousers in heavier fabrics like nylon blends, wool, or corduroy are ideal for cooler weather. The Evolution Pant in Navy, with its durable and stretchy fabric, suits both casual and dressier occasions. Chino pants in blue-gray offer a more polished look with their stylish, fit design and lightweight and stretchy fabric, making an ideal fit for night-outs.
1-2 Sweaters: Pack a mix of lightweight and medium-weight sweaters for fall and spring made from merino wool and polyester blends which are excellent choices for their warmth and softness. Consider Venture Crew, a lightweight sweater with an original perforated texture that provides warmth and UV-sun protection without bulk, and the Adapt Quarter Zip, which offers versatility and easy layering.
1-2 Jackets or/and Coats: For fall and spring, a versatile, water-resistant trench or raincoat along with wool overcoats or light puffer jackets are popular options to handle varying conditions.
Accessories: Pack essential accessories to stay stylish and comfortable throughout the seasons: heavier scarves in wool or cashmere for added warmth and elegance, and a lightweight scarf for cooler spring evenings if you plan a spring trip. Additionally, consider bringing a hat or beanie for added warmth and a chic touch to your look.
Underwear & Socks: Packing essentials include enough underwear and socks for each day plus a few extras, or fewer if you plan to do laundry.
1-2 pairs of Footwear: Bring, for example, minimalist sneakers for warmer days and loafers or boots for colder ones.
Umbrella: Fall in Paris can be rainy, so pack a compact, travel-friendly umbrella to stay dry.
Daypack: A sleek, water-resistant daypack is essential for carrying your items while exploring the city in fall and spring. Choose a design that is both functional and stylish, blending seamlessly with your overall outfit.

The key to creating your fall or spring wardrobe for Paris is to make it flexible for changing weather conditions and various occasions. Lastly, let’s move forward to how to dress comfortably and stylishly in Paris in winter and what you need to pack for this season.

What to Pack for Paris for Men in Winter

Paris in winter is enchanting, with crisp air and festive decorations, but it can also be chilly, with temperatures averaging 37°F to 46°F. Let’s move on and pack the essential winter wardrobe pieces to ensure you stay warm, and dressy while enjoying the winter charm of Paris:

1-2 Sets of Thermal Layer: Thermal tops and bottoms are essential for layering under your clothes on particularly cold days. Look for moisture-wicking and insulating materials like merino wool, which is perfect for travel clothes.
1-2 Comfortable T-Shirts: Pack a few T-shirts in breathable fabrics that are useful for layering under sweaters or wearing indoors. The Limitless Merino Wool Tee is a perfect example, offering breathability and temperature regulation for comfort in varying environments.
2-3 Long-Sleeve Shirts: Opt for long-sleeve shirts in materials like merino wool or cotton. These provide warmth and can be layered under sweaters or worn alone indoors.
1-2 Dressy Shirts: Include a couple of dressy shirts for more formal occasions. The merino wool button-down shirt is an excellent choice for winter as well, offering a stylish look with the added benefits of breathability and temperature regulation.
2-3 Sweaters, jackets, or hoodies: Pack a mix of lightweight sweaters made from merino wool or cotton for their warmth and softness, along with a stylish hoodie, lightweight jacket, or overshirt. These can be layered under your coat for extra insulation and to create stylish outfits. Consider the Venture Hoodie for its durability and packable design, perfect for layering under a coat or vest; the Venture Crew in Sand for its lightweight versatility, ideal with jeans or chinos.
2-3 Trousers: Choose a mix of casual and dressy trousers. Dark, wool trousers and corduroy pants are ideal for winter weather due to their heavier fabrics that provide warmth. The Diversion Pant, made from durable fabric with a comfortable 4-way stretch and a stain-resistant finish, provides warmth and comfort throughout the winter.
1-2 Waterproof Jacket and Warm Coat: A classic wool coat and a stylish waterproof jacket will keep you warm and dry. These coats should be well-insulated and long enough for added warmth. Consider the Western Rise AirLoft Hooded Jacket for excellent insulation and water resistance, perfect for layering under a wool coat.
Accessories: 1-2 heavier scarves in wool or cashmere, and 1 pair of classic but waterproof gloves made from leather or other material are a must for winter packing. Additionally, include a warm beanie or a stylish wool hat to keep your head warm while adding a chic element to your outfit. Choose classic patterns or solid colors of these accessories to complement your wardrobe.
Socks & Underwear: Pack a pair of socks and underwear for each day of your trip, or if you plan to do laundry you might need less. Opt for merino wool socks, which are moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and insulating, keeping your feet dry and comfortable while reducing the number needed for the trip.
1-2 Pairs of Footwear: A pair of waterproof boots and a pair of insulated comfortable shoes are essential for winter. Look for shoes with a good grip to handle wet and icy streets.
Daypack: A sleek, water-resistant daypack is essential for carrying your essentials while exploring the city. Look for a design that is functional yet stylish, blending well with your overall outfit.

As you have probably noticed, preparing for a winter trip to Paris means balancing warmth with style.

Demystifying Myths About Men’s Parisian Fashion Or What To Avoid Wearing In Paris

Now that you have an idea of what guys wear in Paris and a packing list for your trip, let’s demystify some common myths about Parisian style and see what is truly better to avoid wearing during your French trip to respect the locals.

Tourist Attire Myth: Parisians typically don’t care much about what tourists wear, especially during the busy tourist season in summer. Focus more on enjoying the city and less on fitting into a specific dress code.
City Similarities: Parisians may dress similarly to people in other major cities like New York. They are more concerned with manners and behavior than clothing, so polite behavior is more important than what you wear.
Dress Code Flexibility: There is no strict dress code in Paris. However, to avoid looking overly touristy, steer clear of dressing too casually or too formally. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident to blend in better.
Graphic T-shirts: Avoid wearing graphic T-shirts with large logos or writing. These can make you stand out as a tourist. More classic t-shirts, polo shirts, or dress shirts worn casually are preferred over more casual options like tank tops.
Too Casual Wear: Avoid cargo pants, workout clothes, pajamas, and baggy shorts in public. These items are considered too casual for the streets of Paris.

What To Wear In Paris For Men: Tourist FAQ

Lastly, to complete our travel wardrobe guide for Paris, we’ve gathered and answered some common questions about Parisian men’s fashion for those visiting the city for the first time:

What is Classic Parisian Men's Style?

Classic Parisian men's style is all about effortless elegance and understated sophistication. It focuses on clean lines, high-quality fabrics, and a neutral color palette, with an emphasis on perfect tailoring and subtle accessories. This timeless style embodies simplicity and attention to detail, creating a polished look that exudes confidence and refinement.

Do Men Wear Shorts In Paris?

Yes, men do wear shorts in Paris, particularly during the warm summer months. However, they prefer tailored, knee-length shorts in neutral colors for a polished look, often pairing them with a crisp shirt or a lightweight sweater.

What To Wear To Dinner In Paris?

For dinner in Paris, men should opt for smart casual attire to blend elegance with comfort. A well-fitted blazer paired with tailored trousers and a crisp shirt creates a polished look, while polished leather shoes complete the ensemble. Subtle accessories like a classic watch or a tasteful scarf can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit.

What Shoes Do Men Wear In Paris?

In Paris, men typically wear closed shoes due to their style habits. For everyday wear, classic loafers or sleek Chelsea boots are popular choices, providing both comfort and elegance. Comfortable sneakers, especially white or single-color ones like Adidas Stan Smith or Veja, are also common.

Summing up

Regardless of the season, when traveling to Paris, pack a capsule wardrobe with interchangeable pieces to save space and keep your outfits versatile. Include a mix of casual and slightly more formal clothes to suit different occasions, and be sure to check the weather forecasts and adjust your selections accordingly. For other travel gear and essentials for your trip to France, check out our international travel packing list. We hope that after reading both guides, you will feel ready to buy your tickets to Paris and start planning your trip right away. Happy Paris travel!