### What to Wear in Paris in the Fall: A Complete Guide

I recently returned from a truly magical trip to Paris, and I must say—there’s really nothing like the City of Light in autumn. The summer tourists have faded away, the weather is ideal for layering, and the whole city has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Although I intend to put together a detailed Paris travel guide shortly, I couldn’t resist sharing some advice on what to wear in Paris this fall. Spoiler alert: it revolves around sweaters, layers, and stylish outerwear!

In this article, I will guide you through the must-haves for packing for Paris in autumn, highlight my essential wardrobe items, and provide outfit inspiration for various activities around the city.

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### Considerations for Packing

Paris in the fall is enchanting, but it also demands some careful packing. Here are four important aspects to remember when choosing your outfits:

#### 1. **Begin with Your Luggage**
The first step in curating your Paris wardrobe is determining whether to check a suitcase or opt for a carry-on. I typically check a bag, but if you wish to travel light, think about sticking to a unified color scheme. This will make mixing and matching pieces a breeze.

To further lighten your load, limit yourself to three pairs of shoes: one comfortable pair for walking, one versatile pair for casual or dressy occasions, and one dressy pair for nights out. For instance, comfortable sneakers, stylish loafers, and elegant boots would meet all your needs.

#### 2. **Be Ready for Rain**
Fall in Paris, particularly in November, can be quite wet. Although we were fortunate to dodge the rain during our visit, it’s typical for the city to see some precipitation. Make sure to pack rain-resistant outerwear like a trench coat, waterproof shoes, and a compact travel umbrella. These essentials will keep you dry while maintaining your style.

#### 3. **Layer for Cooler Days**
Temperatures can drop in Paris during the fall, especially in the morning and evening, reaching as low as 40°F (4°C). However, afternoons can bring warmth, making it tricky to dress appropriately. The secret is to layer! Bring a selection of sweaters of varying thickness, a warm but not too bulky coat, and basic layering items like long-sleeve shirts and tees.

#### 4. **Shorter Days**
Fall brings shorter daylight hours, with the sun setting around 4:30 PM. While this doesn’t directly affect your clothing choices, it can influence your daily plans. If you aim to visit outdoor attractions such as parks or gardens, try to do so during midday to take full advantage of the sunlight.

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### Essential Paris Outfit Items

Having addressed the packing fundamentals, let’s take a look at the essential pieces you’ll want to include for a fashionable and practical Paris wardrobe. These items will let you craft numerous outfits for both daytime and nighttime.

#### **1. A Stylish Third Piece**
An adaptable jacket is indispensable for fall in Paris. I wore my oversized dark brown jacket nearly every day. It was cozy, comfortable, and easy to layer over sweaters. Whether you’re teaming it with jeans or dressing it up for an evening out, a fashionable jacket is crucial.

#### **2. A Cozier Coat**
For those brisk mornings and evenings, a long, warm coat is necessary. I chose a slim gray-and-black coat that complemented my evening ensembles beautifully. If you seek something more flexible, a timeless trench coat is always a fashionable choice.

#### **3. Sweaters**
Sweaters are your best ally in Paris during fall. I took along a range of styles, from delicate knits to snug cardigans. A striped sweater, like the iconic Marin style, is an excellent way to incorporate a bit of Parisian chic into your outfits.

#### **4. Denim**
A good pair of jeans is essential for a fall wardrobe. I brought two pairs: one cropped straight-leg style and an oversized wide-leg option, both in darker shades that matched my black tops and sweaters nicely. Opt for denim that can transition from casual to dressy for ultimate versatility.

#### **5. Comfortable Footwear**
Paris is a city designed for walking, so comfy shoes are crucial. I included three pairs: casual flats, sneakers, and a more elegant flat for evenings out. My top advice? Avoid packing shoes you’ve never worn before—comfort is vital when exploring the city on foot.

#### **6. A Versatile Dress**
A dress that shifts seamlessly from day to night is an excellent addition to your Paris attire. I adore the Chloe dress for its adaptability. It looks just as stylish with sneakers for daytime adventures as it does with boots for an evening out.

#### **7. A Chic Bag**
A fashionable yet practical bag is essential for any journey to Paris. I included a few options