What I’m Packing For Paris
Dress (also & also) || Wedges || Clutch || Earrings || Watch || Bracelet
My bags are packed and I’m ready to head across the pond for a girl’s trip to France. This will be my first trip to the country and I’m so excited to explore both Paris and Bordeaux. I’ve been reading so much about the record breaking heat wave that has hit Europe the past few weeks, but luckily it looks like it will start to cool off just before we get there. Still, I’m preparing for steamy days in the city, not really unlike summer in New York.
The biggest challenge is packing everything up in just a carry on. I’m a notorious over packer and I’m trying to really keep what I bring to a minimum. Harder still, I want to have plenty of room in my suitcase for bringing back all of the fun souvenirs. In Paris, our hotel is dangerously close to some of the best shopping in the world and I need to budget accordingly.
When I travel, I try and dress as close to a local as possible. Obviously, that’s extremely difficult when I’ve never been to a destination and a lot of research is required. I’ve found, especially in the summertime, switching your denim pieces for linen is a great alternative. Since I bought them about a month ago, I feel like I’ve been living in these navy linen pants from LOFT. You can style them just like your favorite pair of blue jeans, but they help you stay a lot cooler. There’s no shortage of linen pieces in all of our favorite stores, but I really feel it makes a huge difference in comfort. Linen does tend to wrinkle easier, but I swear by traveling with this Downy Wrinkle Release Spray. It was a complete game changer when David and I traveled to Italy last year.
When the day calls for miles of walking and sightseeing, I’m also very partial for wearing midi dresses and skirts. I have two theories as to why this is your best bet. First off, you will look effortlessly stylish and probably not get pegged as a tourist right away. Second, wearing dresses and skirts are a great option for staying cooler, but you should consider the midi length, especially if you’re want to visit religious sites. Many places in Europe have a surprisingly strict dress code and I’ve seen many people turned away at the door because of what they were wearing.
I’ve already featured this item on the blog, but this sundress from H&M checks off so many boxes. It’s midi length, linen material, and has a gorgeous blue toile print that I just love. It’s absolutely getting packed for my trip. This floral printed skirt from H&M may also make an appearance. I can already see myself strolling down the River Siene feeling as Parisian as can be.
Finally, I can’t forget comfortable footwear. I swear by my Tretorn sneakers and they have already traveled the world with me. They feel like you’re walking on a cloud and will definitely keep up with me as I walk the streets of Paris. For dinners out, I can’t wait for my Castaner espadrille wedges to make their French debut. Even though they give me a little bit of height, they are still extremely comfortable. All I have to do is double knot the straps and I will be good to go.
My flight doesn’t leave until late tonight, but I am already daydreaming of arriving in Paris tomorrow afternoon. I’ll be sharing prescheduled blog posts for the rest of the week, but can’t wait to share my adventures as soon as I’m back stateside. See you then!
Love from NYC,
Katie
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