THE BLOG

The Ultimate Guide: What to Pack and Wear in Paris for Fall

Sézane Suede Jacket | Vintage Scarf (similar) | Quince Cashmere Sweater | Sézane Wool Skirt (similar) | Sézane Polka Dot Tights | Sézane Vintage Milo Handbag | Waterproof Boots

Pack for Paris in the fall and experience the magic of golden leaves along cobblestone streets, cozy café terraces, and the Eiffel Tower shining against crisp autumn skies; it’s truly one of the best times of year to visit the City of Light.

Deciding what to wear, however, can be a challenge as the weather shifts from sunny early autumn afternoons to chilly days with inevitable rain showers.

This guide simplifies your Paris packing list with practical outfit ideas, timeless style inspiration from Parisian women, and smart tips for September, October, and November, ensuring you stay chic, comfortable, and fully prepared for every moment of your trip.

Understanding Paris Fall Weather in Detail

Fall in Paris is layered and unpredictable, which means your travel wardrobe has to be versatile. 

Fall weather can shift drastically even within the same week.

Before you start filling your suitcase, it’s important to understand the average temperatures and weather patterns in the fall. 

• Late September (early autumn): Often mild, with sunny days reaching the upper 60s°F (around 20°C). A light sweater, trench coat, or denim jacket is a good choice for strolling in outdoor markets.
• Early October: Temperatures range from 50–64°F (10–18 °C), with warmer days and chilly mornings. Pack light layers—think long sleeve tees and cardigans, you’ll want these extra layers, especially at night. 
• Late October / End of October: Cooler and wetter. This is when you’ll want ankle boots, stylish walking shoes, and an extra layer like tweed jackets.
• Late Fall (November): Crisp, brisk, and romantic, (41–52°F / 5–11°C)  Expect cold weather, occasional wet weather, and the need for a wool coat or leather jacket.Be sure to check the weather forecast right before you leave—it’s the best way to adjust your wardrobe. Paris is known for sudden showers, so a travel umbrella or raincoat is always a good idea.

The Parisian Dress Code

The dress code in Paris leans toward understated elegance. French women and French men rarely wear loud prints or excessive logos.

Instead, they stick to neutral colors, timeless silhouettes, and high-quality fabrics.

What Parisian Women Wear in Fall

• Trench coat or wool coat
• Tailored black pants or dark denim
• Ballet flats, ankle boots, or tall boots
• Accessories in a pop of color, often a scarf or handbag
• Minimalist jewelry for a polished look

What Parisian Men Wear in Fall

• Slim dark denim or tailored trousers
• Wool overcoats or pea coats
• Chelsea boots or leather sneakers
• Scarves in neutral colors

Most important thing: Comfort without sacrificing style. You’ll be walking a lot, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.

Avoid packing:

• Athletic wear (like yoga pants) for daily outfits; save them for workouts.
• High heels; not practical on cobblestone streets.
• Overly bright or bulky clothes that stand out.

Instead, focus on Parisian style: simple silhouettes, elevated basics, and pieces that can be mixed and matched into different outfits.

What Not to Pack for Paris in Fall

While you may be tempted to bring certain items, a few are better left behind:

• Overly bright colors: Parisians lean toward neutrals, though a pop of color (like a scarf or bag) is a great way to add personality.
• Huge purses or backpacks: Opt for a cross-body bag or a Longchamp tote, which blends in seamlessly with French women and men commuting around the city.

Month-by-Month Paris Packing Guide

Late September

• Light jacket + light layers
• Ballet flats for warmer days
• Travel umbrella for showers

Early October

• Light sweater + leather jacket
• Dark denim + ankle boots

Late October

• Wool coat + black pants
• Leather gloves and scarf

November

• Tall boots or waterproof boots
• Multiple extra layers for warmth

Essential Fall Packing List Additions

Beyond the basics already covered, here are some first things you should consider adding to your travel capsule wardrobe:

• Light Layers: Long sleeve tees, shirt dresses, and a light sweater for fluctuating fall weather.
• Outerwear Variety: A denim jacket for sunny days, a blazer for a polished look, and favorite blazers or tweed jackets for cooler evenings.
• Shoes: Best walking shoes and stylish walking shoes are a must. Parisians walk everywhere, and ankle boots are a good choice for late October.
• Accessories: A crossbody bag, leather gloves, and a fanny pack for convenience.
• Travel-Friendly Items: A travel steamer (many a hotel room lacks an iron), a refillable water bottle for daily adventures, and travel insurance for peace of mind.

Packing essentials for Paris in the fall

Here’s a breakdown of what should be at the top of your Paris outfit list and ideas on what to pack for Paris in the fall.

Of course, everyone is different, and you want to pack what is best for your lifestyle.

However, this will give you a good idea of the essentials to think about bringing to Paris.

Outerwear essentials to pack for Paris in the fall

The Trench Coat

A trench coat tops the list of most important things to pack for Paris in the fall. It’s lightweight yet warm enough for early autumn, perfect for layering, and ideal for those unpredictable rainy days.

Wool Coat

By the colder months of late October and November, a wool coat becomes a good choice for staying warm without compromising style. Choose a camel, navy, or black for maximum versatility.

Leather Jacket

For cooler weather and sunny days, a leather jacket gives any look an edge while keeping you warm. Layer over light sweaters or long-sleeve tees.

Light Jacket & Denim Jacket

In warmer months like late September or early October, a light jacket or denim jacket paired with light layers work.

SHOP OUTERWEAR

Tops to pack for Paris in the fall

• White Button-Down Shirt – A timeless staple.
• Marinière Striped Top – Iconic French style.
• Knit Sweaters – A mix of thin merino wool and chunky knits for layering.
• Neutral Turtleneck – Perfect under a wool coat or blazer.

SHOP TOPS

Bottoms to pack for Paris in the fall

• Black Pants – A chic foundation piece.
• High-Waisted Denim – Works with comfortable walking shoes or ballet flats.
• Skirt – Midi length in wool or leather for an elegant option.

SHOP BOTTOMS

Dresses to pack for Paris in the autumn

• Little Black Dress – A timeless Parisian women staple. Add tights and boots in cooler weather.
• Skirts– During the cooler months, pack a wool skirt to wear with tall boots and a sweater.

SHOP DRESSES

Shoes to pack for Paris

• Ballet flats: Classic, feminine, and perfect for Parisian style.
• Ankle boots: Great for cooler months and go with dresses, skirts, or pants.
• Knee-high boots or tall boots: A good option for colder months and wet weather.
• Waterproof boots: Essential if you’re visiting during heavy rainy days.
• Stylish walking shoes: The best walking shoes combine cushioning with a chic silhouette.

Leave high heels for evenings only—they’re not practical for cobblestone streets.

SHOP SHOES

Accessories to pack for Paris in fall

• Travel Umbrella – Small, sturdy, and easy to pack.
• Day Bag – Medium-sized crossbody that fits daily essentials.
• Scarf – A true French accessory that adds warmth and style.
• Extra Layer – Cardigans, pashminas, or shawls for unexpected chill.

SHOP ACCESSORIES

Women’s Outfit Inspiration: How to Dress Like a Parisian in Fall

Late September Picnic by the Seine

SHOP THE LOOK

Casual Day Exploring

SHOP THE LOOK

Museum Visit or Café Stroll

SHOP THE LOOK

Late October Stroll Through Jardin du Luxembourg

SHOP THE LOOK

Rainy Day Outfit

SHOP THE LOOK

Men’s Outfit Inspiration: What to Wear in Paris in Fall

Parisian men lean toward classic tailoring and subtle details.

• September (early autumn): Polo shirt + chinos + loafers + light jacket.
• October: Button-down + wool sweater + blazer + dark denim + boots.
• November (colder months): Wool coat + scarf + layered knits + comfortable walking shoes.

SHOP PIECES FOR MEN TO PACK

Smart Packing Tips for Fall Travel

• Build a Capsule Wardrobe: Choose versatile pieces in neutral colors so everything mixes and matches.
• Layering is Key: Paris weather can swing from sunny to chilly quickly. An extra layer is always a good option.
• Footwear First: Prioritize comfortable walking shoes over fashion heels.
• Leave Room for Shopping: Paris is one of the best things for fashion lovers—chances are you’ll want to bring back new finds.
• Check the Weather Forecast: Pack according to the time of year you’re traveling.

Building a Paris Travel Capsule Wardrobe

The smartest approach is to build a travel capsule wardrobe of 10–15 versatile pieces. Stick to neutral colors, add a few scarves for a pop of color, and always include:

• A blazer (or two of your favorite blazers)
• Wide-leg denim or trousers
• Knitwear
• A button-down
• Long skirt for layering with tights in late fall
• Tweed jackets for chic structure
• Stylish walking shoes + ankle boots
• Accessories like a crossbody bag or Longchamp tote

This ensures a polished look every day without overpacking.

SHOP PARIS IN THE FALL: PACKING ESSENTIALS

Sample Paris Packing List for Fall

Outerwear

• Trench coat
• Wool coat
• Leather jacket
• Light jacket or denim jacket

Tops

• 3–4 long sleeve tees
• 2–3 light sweaters
• 1 shirt dress

Bottoms

• 1 pair black pants
• 1 pair dark denim
• 1 mini skirt + tights

Shoes

• Ballet flats
• Ankle boots
• Knee-high boots or tall boots
• Stylish walking shoes
• Waterproof boots (if wet weather is in the weather forecast)

Accessories

• Crossbody bag
• Day bag
• Longchamp tote
• Leather gloves
• Scarf (pop of color)
• Travel umbrella

Travel Essentials: Beyond Clothes

Your travel capsule wardrobe is only part of the equation. To make your Paris trip seamless, don’t forget:

• Credit card: Widely accepted, though always carry a little cash.
• Travel insurance: One of the most important things you can bring—especially in case of delays or emergencies.
• Water bottle: A great way to stay hydrated while walking between attractions.
• Travel steamer: Lightweight and perfect for keeping your favorite blazers and dresses wrinkle-free.
• Great carry-on bag: Helps avoid lost luggage and keeps your travel style streamlined.

Mistakes to Avoid on Your Paris Packing List

• Overpacking bulky sweaters (you’ll wear the same few versatile pieces).
• Bringing only summer months clothes—you’ll need warmth even in early autumn evenings.
• Forgetting wet weather gear like a travel umbrella.
• Packing impractical shoes—cobblestone streets will make you regret stilettos.

Visiting Paris in the fall is one of my favorite times; cool mornings, golden afternoons, and stylish evenings. With the right Paris packing list, you’ll feel both comfortable and chic.

Whether you’re strolling the Eiffel Tower, enjoying a café crème, or window-shopping on Avenue Montaigne, the key is to blend practicality with timeless Parisian style.

Pack neutral colors, stick to versatile pieces, and don’t forget your comfortable walking shoes. A well-thought-out suitcase ensures that your trip will be effortless, stylish, and truly Parisian.

• What To Pack For Paris In Fall
• Paris Fall Outfits
• What To Pack For Paris In Spring

This blog post contains affiliate links and if you should make a purchase, I will make a small commission. MERCI.