I just returned from Paris, and now everything I purchased for summer seems off.
I like to think that I've become quite immune to vacation shopping envy after years in the fashion industry, but Paris has a way of making even the fullest closet feel slightly off. The suitcase filled with my carefully chosen items quickly seems like it could have been styled better. I spent several days in the French capital during one of its hottest periods, and even with the rising temperatures, the best-dressed individuals never appeared to compromise style for comfort. Instead, they showcased effortlessly chic outfits that only seemed to improve the longer you gazed at them. My accommodation for the trip, CitizenM Paris Champs-Élysées, was an ideal spot to take it all in. Located just steps away from one of the most fashionable areas in the city with some of the best shopping around, it’s safe to say I drew a lot of outfit inspiration from the neighborhood itself. By the time my flight returned home, I was not only thinking about adding more pieces to my wardrobe—I was reconsidering nearly everything I packed. Below are six items I'm currently shopping for now that the trip has concluded, yet I'm still dreaming about it.
**Tapestry Skirt**
If there was one piece that could instantly elevate even the simplest outfit, it was a richly textured tapestry skirt. Whether worn with a fitted tank, an oversized button-down, or a lightweight knit, these eye-catching skirts added depth without feeling overly delicate. I spotted them a few times before I felt inspired to try one myself.
- **Favorite Daughter**: The Jojo Floral Tapestry Midi Skirt
- **ALICE + OLIVIA**: Maeve Tapestry Slip Skirt
- **tuckernuck**: Jacquard Ellington Skirt
- **Shushu/Tong**: Embellished Slip Skirt
- **Banana Republic**: Mesh Midi Skirt
**Bold Shorts**
Statement shorts are hardly a new concept, but in Paris, they were presented in vibrant stripes, deep reds, and unexpected hues that made every outfit feel purposeful. Paired with simple tanks or crisp shirts, they demonstrated that sometimes, all a summer outfit needs is a bold splash of color.
- **Cala de la Cruz**: Bahamas Linen Shorts
- **The Frankie Shop**: Adia Satin Shorts
- **Sara Cristina**: Playa pearl-embellished silk-shantung shorts
- **FARM RIO**: Red Fruit Stripes Embroidered Rope Ties Shorts
- **SIMON MILLER**: Como Linen Short
**Knit Maxi Dress**
As temperatures rise, the usual instinct is to wear less. However, Parisian women seemed to do the opposite, opting for lightweight knit maxis that lightly skimmed the body without being constrictive. They looked polished enough for lunch, shopping, or dinner—no outfit changes needed.
- **SOVERE**: Pandora Knit Dress
- **SER OYA**: Anora Knit Maxi Dress
- **Sma**: Joyce Stripe Maxi Knit Dress
- **ESCVDO**: Huaral Cotton Maxi Dress
- **Banana Republic**: Sculpted Stripe Maxi Dress
- **Reformation**: Ericka Knit Dress
**Poplin Sets**
Matching poplin separates were everywhere, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a crisp look without appearing overly done, photograph beautifully, and make achieving a polished look as simple as throwing on two pieces. In the sweltering heat, that kind of effortless style is hard to beat.
- **The Great**: The Smocked Sleep Top
- **hill house home**: The Jessie Short
- **MANGO**: Embroidered Shorts With Lace Accents
- **ALIGNE**: Carlos Poplin Peplum Top
**Ballet Pumps**
One of the biggest surprises was the prevalence of closed-toe shoes. Instead of defaulting to minimalist sandals and fancy flip-flops, stylish women opted for elegant ballet pumps that immediately made dresses, skirts, and tailored shorts appear more refined. It's an unexpectedly sophisticated choice that I will definitely embrace this season, regardless of the heat.
- **Tory Burch**: Cap Toe Ballet Pumps
- **Reformation**: Terry Ballet Pump
- **Massimo Dutti**: High-Heel Ballerinas
**Polo**
Perhaps the easiest trend to recreate is the revival of the polo. Whether it’s knit, ribbed, or classic cotton, it provides just enough structure to elevate even the simplest bottoms. It’s sporty yet polished and manages to exude an expensive look every time.
- **Ralph Lauren**: Slim Fit Stretch Polo Shirt
- **Guest In Residence**: Shrunken Polo Top
- **Reformation**: Bentley Cotton Polo Sweater
- **MANGO**: Polo-Neck Ribbed Sweater
- **J.Crew**: Lightweight Short-Sleeve Polo Shirt
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I just returned from Paris, and now everything I purchased for summer seems off.
A journey to Paris can truly make a difference. Our fashion editor is trading in bold trends for these six elegant items that fashionable French women are seen wearing all over.
