Très Chic ! 7 Essential Capsule Wardrobe Items to Bring for a Parisian Getaway
If there's one thing I eagerly anticipate each year, it's a holiday. Whether it’s a week-long getaway lounging on a sun lounger under the sun or a quick weekend escape in a city, either internationally or within the UK, I always make it a point to schedule something at the end of summer to hold onto it a little longer. This year, I'm headed to the French capital for a long weekend and am already considering my outfit choices. Parisian women are renowned for their effortless style and knack for making everything look incredibly chic. Although I have visited before and seen the major tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, I still plan to explore cultural sites and shop along the Champs-Elysées.
I must confess, I find packing for a short city break to be more challenging—it’s not just about bikinis, flowing dresses, and sandals; it requires more planning and needs to fit into a carry-on suitcase, which isn’t exactly my strength as someone who tends to overpack. Practicality is also crucial given the amount of walking I’ll be doing, so comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing that remain suitable for a city break are a must. To avoid the last-minute chaos of packing a mismatched array of outfits, I am determined this year to be more organized. I’ve done some research and curated a list of seven essential capsule items to take to Paris, allowing me to prepare ahead of time rather than waiting until the night before my trip.
1. The White Mini Dress
Style Notes: A mini dress is the perfect companion for a holiday, wouldn’t you agree? Choosing white will not only keep you cool during a heatwave but is versatile enough to be paired with classic ballet flats for sight-seeing and switched for suede sandals for evening outings.
Shop the Look:
- Dôen is my go-to for a new summer dress.
- DISSH: Miranda Lace-Trim Cotton-Blend Mini Dress – One of my absolute favorite Australian brands.
- Free People: Sundazed Mini Dress – Available in five different colors.
- FAITHFULL: Serafina Broderie Anglaise Mini Dress – I love the intricate broderie detailing on this.
- H&M: Lace-Trimmed Tunic Dress – A long sleeve option that’s perfect as the weather cools off towards summer’s end.
2. The Cotton Co-Ord
Style Notes: When it comes to packing smart, a cotton co-ord set can essentially provide three different outfits, right? You can wear them together or mix and match. This streamlined option saves space and offers a polished look. Just remember to include a travel iron!
Shop the Look:
- DISSH: Annabel Lace-Trim Cotton-Blend Top – A crisp white top and shorts set is a classic choice.
- LA LIGNE: Striped Cotton-Poplin Shirt – A chic shirt and shorts set.
- With Nothing Underneath: The Boxer in Seersucker, Icy Blue and Mocha Multi Stripe – A favorite of editors from Who What Wear for several summers.
- Free People: Sandshell Skirt Set – Available in nine different hues.
- KHAITE: Artin Paneled Cotton-Poplin Midi Skirt.
3. Smart Sandals
Style Notes: A pair of smart sandals, like leather flip-flops or a kitten-heeled option, can effortlessly elevate any outfit. I appreciate the polished finish they add to a simple jeans and t-shirt look, and they’re space-saving since they can transition from day to evening with just a change of top.
Shop the Look:
- Reformation: Amelia Heeled Thong in white for a crisp finish.
- Free People: La La Land Strappy Heels.
- DOLCE VITA: Brevel Suede Heeled Sandals – These are super comfortable, perfect for those long Parisian days.
- Toteme: Croco-Embossed Heeled Flip Flops in Dark Brown – These have been on my wish list for some time.
- AEYDE: Olenna 65 Leather Thong Sandals – Aeyde is a favorite of mine for timeless styles.
4. The Light Cardigan
Style Notes: I like to bring a lightweight knit when I travel, especially near summer's end. It’s ideal for layering during the day or for those cooler evenings, making a simple cardigan a valuable addition to any outfit.
Shop the Look:
- COS: Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan – COS is my top pick for knitwear on the high street.
- ARCH4: Marisol Cashmere Cardigan – A good investment due to its durability.
- Lisa Yang: Felicia Cardigan – I love the soft tones of Lisa Yang's cashmere pieces.
- M&S: Crew Neck Button Through Cardigan – Excellent quality at a great price.
- Massimo Dutti: Long Knit V-Neck Cardigan – This entire look is incredibly chic.
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Très Chic ! 7 Essential Capsule Wardrobe Items to Bring for a Parisian Getaway
If you have a trip to France planned for your summer schedule, these seven items are the essential first things to include in your packing for a effortlessly stylish city look.