Packing For Paris In Summer – Part One

In a week’s time we will be in Paris which is, of course, very exciting. Given I have a massive week ahead of me at work (yes, we’ve decided to work until Thursday night) I really need to sort out my packing list this weekend.

You’ll be pleased to know that I finally made a decision on which luggage to take. I am going with my Tumi carry on suitcase. After thinking about our itinerary for this trip, I decided against the backpack. The small size of my case is also forcing me to pack light. (Having said that, I still don’t think I will achieve my ‘take less than 10kg for a month’ goal on this trip).

We’ve never been to France in the early summer before, however I’m making some assumptions that, while we are in Paris at least, the weather will still be relatively mild. But I also have to consider that we are not spending our entire trip in Paris…we are heading south the whole time before flying out of Barcelona, so the weather is likely to get quite warm by the time we leave for home.

With all of that in mind, I clearly need to be discerning. Here’s what’s I’m packing for Paris in summer:

• Lightweight leather jacket that goes with everything. Adds a little warmth, while dressing up any outfit.
• A pair of midnight blue skinny jeans and a pair of black slim tailored trousers. Should cover most occasions while we are in Paris.
• A pale grey cashmere jumper, which I will wear on the flight. It will also be handy if the weather is cooler earlier in our trip.
• A denim pencil skirt, which might be handy down south.
• Three dresses – 2 versatile jersey dresses by French brand Agnes B – one in blue and one in black – and a black cocktail frock. Normally I wouldn’t travel with so many dresses, but for the first time ever I have a need for a cocktail dress on this trip.
• Three t-shirts – two white, and a dressier one in charcoal.
• A sleeveless silk shirt in midnight blue.
• Two long sleeve shirts – a white one and another in denim.
• Grey cotton scarf.
• One swimsuit – in case it is way, way warmer by the time we get to Spain.
• Way too many pairs of shoes – at least compared to what I normally travel with. 2 pairs of ballet flats, a pair of black peep-toe sling back heels and a pair of flat silver sandals.

And that’s it.

Normally, when I do packing posts, I have already spent time in Paris in that particular season, so I can let you know what worked for me in terms of both travelling and blending in with the locals. (Check out both winter and spring if you are interested). But, I promise that I will give you all an update after we’ve spent our time in Paris…I’ll also let you know if any of the above pieces end up being unworn (read: useless and a waste of valuable space)!

Do you have any tips you can share with regard to packing for Paris for summer? If so, please, please, please share in the comments section below so I can take advantage of your great advice!

And until next time – au revoir.