One of my girlfriends is planning a trip to Europe and a prime destination for her will be Paris. She was asking me what I think she should bring. As we were exchanging ideas of some must-take items for her trip, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to start making my own list of fashion must-haves that I would pack when our Paris vacation time comes. Here’s how I came up with my fashion selections based on what I know about the city of lights:
ONE: Stylish fitted jeans that are comfortable enough to allow room for the occasional stops at cafes along the way to enjoy chocolate croissants and cups of cafe-au-lait.
TWO: Since Paris weather is unpredictable, a classictrench coat or a chic timeless jacket are must-haves to fend off the city’s erratic elements like a Parisian.
THREE: You wouldn’t dare be caught in the most stylish city on earth with a bad hair day, so a great sturdy elegant umbrella is an accessory must for any unexpected rainfall.
FOUR: The quintessential French accessory is the scarf. Parisian women are known for wearing scarves and for good reason – it adds that pop of color to their neutral palette while keeping the cold breezy air at bay and the neckline warm. (But of course, wearing a scarf is an art for a Parisienne, so arm yourself with these few tips on how to tie a scarf like a Parisienne.)
FIVE: To enjoy the beautiful sights, a good pair of cool-looking, comfortable walking boots are imperative for strolling along the streets of Paris.
SIX: Dainty jewelry accessories (some more amazing choices here) give that effortlessly chic vibe.
SEVEN: You can never go wrong with an understated black sheath dress that can easily go from day to night; adorn with a simple necklace, a swipe of red lipstick, and voila!
EIGHT: It’s always good to have more than one piece of outerwear when traveling. I couldn’t think of anything edgier and cooler to traverse the streets of Paris in style more than this Helmut Lang leather sleeves jacket (which is at a whopping 60% off right now). Whoop!
NINE: I added these exotic Derek Lam ankle booties as another possibility in lieu of option No. 5. They screamed for my attention. Aren’t they divine?
TEN: In addition to selection No.1, these dressier Current/Elliott slim-fit stretch black jeans (also on SALE) make for a perfect second outfit option. Two pair of pants is all you need to keep your traveling bag light.
ELEVEN: It’s a walking city, stylish flats are indispensable. And what better place to sport a signature pair like these Chanel ballerina flats.
TWELVE: This Rebecca Minkoff crossbody bag, a less expensive option to the Chanel Stitch boy flap bag allows for carrying your lady essentials in a hands-free manner, giving you the freedom to hold your maps, and is just as sexy looking.
THIRTEEN: Again, in case option No. 11 isn’t your taste, this quilted Chanel ballerina with floral embellishment and stacked block heel looks quite snazzy – perfect to pair with every piece in this suitcase.
…other great options: