I've Lived in Paris for 6 Weeks Now —Here's Everything I've Worn

Call it the Emily in Paris effect, or our increasing fascination with French culture, but Paris has become a hotspot for Brits, particularly of late. It's no wonder why; there’s something to appease sartorialists, historians, and foodies alike. As a person contemplating a permanent move there, I certainly fell for its charm. At a mere two-hour Eurostar ride away, a cultural, fashion-fuelled and gastronomic experience awaits. Whether you’re visiting to take in the city’s enviable style scene, or simply for an aimless wander to see the sights, packing efficiently will save you so much space and time for more pressing matters (like frequenting bakeries).

Parisian style is the one I ascribe to the most, give or take a few elements. It’s simple yet effective and can transcend seasons and trends, which is great for a conscious shopper like me. And after many trips to the style-clad capital, I’ve become well-versed in all constitutes authentic French style

Between rouge lip lacquer, embroidered blouses and oversized blazers, Parisians have become synonymous with their knack for easy dressing and that je ne sais quoi we’re so desperate to replicate. So, how do we? 

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(Image credit: @writtenbyavalon)

When summer rolls around I revert to my uniform of dresses and slingbacks. Keep scrolling to see my selection of summer dresses.

Part of the appeal when visiting Paris (aside from witnessing the many jaw-dropping cultural landmarks, of course) is adopting its classic uniform in a bid to blend in with French natives, and there are ways to do so, whilst travelling light. The French uniform is attainable as it consists of a few items with maximum styling options, many of which are pieces you’re likely to already have in your arsenal. 

The simplicity of Parisian style makes it attainable, and easy to replicate in a matter of steps. Of course, there are the more fanciful items, but with a handful of considered pieces, you can chop and change in accordance with the forecast and occasion. Having lived here for six weeks so far, I like to think of myself as something of an honourary Parisian. If you too are thinking of coming to the city for a trip, be it long or short, I know from experience that these items will ensure you look chic throughout your stay.

So, whether you’re planning to spend the small hours in one of the many eclectic nightspots the city has to offer or are setting out on daytime café jaunts, these pieces can be interchanged to create a slew of elevated looks for your trip to Paris, that you'll get just as much wear out of afterwards. Keep scrolling to see my Paris packing list and the outfits I assembled from it. Bon voyage!

1. Jeans + Trench + Slingbacks

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK )

Style Notes: Trench coats are the ideal outerwear for day and night in Paris, all year round.

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2. Slip Dress + White Shirt + Earrings

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK )

Style Notes: Give a slip dress a fashionable twist with the addition of a shirt and jaunty neck scarf. 

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3. Tailored Trousers + Stripes + Ballet Flats

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK )

Style Notes: Breton stripes might feel cliché, but French women genuinely wear them daily. Tweak this outfit for the really hot weather by swapping the knit for a striped tank and removing the jacket. 

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4. Midi Skirt + Tee + Slingbacks

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK )

Style Notes: When Parisians tackle the trends, they do so with nuance. This cargo skirt strikes the perfect balance between being current and timeless. 

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5. Trench + Stripes + Tailored Trousers + Basket Bag

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK )

Style Notes: Make your wardrobe work harder for you by wearing the same trousers and stripes as before with your trend and a gorgeous basket bag. 

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Shop My Other Parisian Wardrobe Essentials:

Next Up: 40 New-In Pieces I Would Never Kick Out of My Wardrobe

Freelance Fashion Editor

Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities.

She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist.

Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne.

She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.