Packing for Paris can be a tricky business, so tricky that Michelle who runs the delightful PrettyMommy asked me about it.
There are a few things to take into account, but only one of them is truly important (two if you count the umbrella).
How long will I be staying? How much do I want/will my method of transport allow me to carry? What will the weather be like? What will I be doing? These are important, sure, but successful packing for any destination is as much about the dream as the reality, and planning can be a satisfying mental mini-break. So, for Paris, take only the clothes you can imagine yourself wearing as you walk through the Tuilleries, cross the Pont Neuf, or sit in Café de Flore (so long as you also remember to take the umbrella...).
A confession: wherever I go, I underpack rather than overpack, imagining that I can survive with a toothbrush and a Chanel lipstick (no. 64 - Enthusiast, if you want to know). I'm not familiar with the evils of overpacking but underpacking isn't too good when all too often I end up with nothing but paint-stained overalls and a pair of stilettos. However, here are the current contents of my London-Paris overnight bag.
Pants - See by Chloe, Sweater - A.P.C. , Jacket - Vanessa Bruno, Patent lace-ups with a small heel - B Store, APC coat , Herve Chapelier Bag, Repettos
(This season's Sonia Rykiel's show included models speaking the designer's fantasies about dressing for Paris. I especially liked, "Je m'appelle Betty, je viens du fin fond du Colorado pour m'acheter une robe noire a Paris". Betty and Sonia know Paris is a city that requires some dressing up for. Please add your real - or fantasy - list below)
Baise-en-ville, ha! I just learned something!! I am lately very good at underpacking too. I am a creature of habit, and actually like re-wearing. xx
Posted by: Coquette (Elisabeth) | November 18, 2009 at 07:32 PM
Not good when it's socks, though...
Posted by: badaude | November 19, 2009 at 11:47 AM
Brilliant list! Wish I'd used it for my recent trip. I really overpacked.
Posted by: Iheartfashion | November 19, 2009 at 03:48 PM
This is wonderful!
*laughing at baise-en-ville*
They are direct, aren't they? :)
I always thought the little purse that men carry was called a baise-en-ville but live and learn
my BF will laugh :)
In the summer I'll be in comfortable tourist clothing when I go to Paris :) I just want to be sure not to embarrass myself and wear a fanny pack with white sneakers :P
Posted by: Fabulously Broke | November 19, 2009 at 06:10 PM
Checked out the Paris Paradox mentioned in the drawing,since I found it unbelievable.But its true !Paris rainfall is three times heavier than London but Paris has fewer rainy days .I did n't realise you did science stuff as well.
Posted by: DBC Reed | November 20, 2009 at 03:35 PM
I read somewhere about the rainfall being heavier in Paris but, spending lots of time in London too, couldn't believe it and had to investigate further. There's a good page on paradox and averages at http://tiny.cc/kkAnG
Posted by: badaude | November 20, 2009 at 03:44 PM
I couldn't do it without a cashmere scarf/muffler for that sudden drop in temperature or rise in wind. And a tee shirt to layer if it gets even colder. Although it's being incredibly mild lately.
Posted by: Shelli | November 21, 2009 at 08:00 PM
Any kind of scarf is the Parisian accessory par excellence, male or female. Even when it's really hot, they don't take them of, just change them for a lighter version. Echarpe, foulard, cheich: like the Eskimos with snow, maybe that's why they have so many words for it...
Posted by: badaude | November 21, 2009 at 09:13 PM
I second the scarf...could never travel without it! Must be my inner French girl...and slippers for the plane...and big sunglasses since I never have time to put on makeup beforehand. Thanks again!!
Posted by: Michelle | November 22, 2009 at 11:10 PM
Your article is really good with lot of information on packing things for travel. Some people really have confusion on what all things they should carry and keep.
Posted by: cheap flights to Paris | May 22, 2010 at 11:32 AM
When I have to pack, I usually just sit with myself and make a simple list with what that I need.
Usually I forget half of the things I need for getting through the trip, but it's a good thing, because it provides me a great reason to do some shopping:)
Posted by: truck rental | May 26, 2010 at 10:40 PM
I completely agree with all the questions raised by you while packing for any city/ country. What I think is that most important thing is the way of transport. It is important to place your things securely from place to another one.
Posted by: Moving Company | October 23, 2010 at 07:18 PM
J'aime l blog de baduade c'est magnifique.
Posted by: Jacques | May 04, 2012 at 01:58 PM