What I Wore, What I Packed & The Lessons I Learned
There’s something about Paris that makes you want to show up as your most effortless self. Every corner is charming, every meal feels like a moment, and the women—oh, the women—remind you that confidence will always be the best accessory.
For my direct flight, I wanted to look pulled together but feel very comfortable and cozy, since sleep was at the top of my list. I always wear a combination of the outfits below. It is my tried-and-true travel uniform that has not failed me yet! I dress comfortably, wear a hat to hide bed head, and use my coat and scarf as sleeping accessories on the plane, along with my sleeping mask and noise-cancelling headphones.
COAT | TOP | BOTTOM | HAT | SCARF | PURSE | SHOES | SUITCASE
On my recent trip to Paris, I packed light but intentionally: timeless outfits I could mix and match, and a streamlined skincare and makeup routine that kept me glowing through long days of walking, wine, and late-night dinners. Below, I’m sharing everything I wore and packed, plus what I’d absolutely bring again.
What I Wore in Paris
I focused on classic, comfortable pieces that felt chic without trying too hard. Think: elevated basics, button-ups, cashmere sweaters, and neutral tones that work for any occasion.
Sightseeing Days
Comfort was key, but I still wanted to feel pulled together. My go-to uniform was jeans, a tee and a sweater, and my favorite brown coat or white puffer. I added ballet flats for shorter walks and sneakers for the longer ones.
COAT | SWEATER | BUTTON UP | JEANS | CROSSBODY | SNEAKERS | BRACELET | LIPPIE
PUFFER | WHITE TEE | SWEATER | SCARF | DENIM | PURSE | SNEAKERS | HOOPS
Evenings Out
Paris evenings call for casual elegance. I packed my faux leather pants ( faux leather is huge there right now), which worked with absolutely everything else I packed. I wore dressy boots or ballet flats, plus a few statement accessories to instantly elevate a look.
COAT | CARDIGAN | BUTTON UP | PURSE | DENIM | BOOTS | BRACELET | HOOPS | LIPPIE |
COAT | TEE | SWEATER | NECKLACE | SCARF | PANTS | SHOES | PURSE | BRACELET
The MVPs
• A wool coat – timeless and practical.
• Sneakers – because Paris is best explored on foot.
• A crossbody bag – keeps your hands free for croissants and photos.
• A scarf – adds polish and warmth (plus, you’ll fit right in with the locals).
✨ Style Lesson: The best outfits are the ones you feel comfortable in. Paris reminded me that less truly is more.
💄My Skincare, Hair & Makeup Edit
MAKEUP BAG | MERIT SKINCARE TRAVEL SET | EXFOLIATING PADS | FRAGRANCE | MASK DUO | TRAVEL DEODORANT | BODY LOTION | DRY SHAMPOO | LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER | HEAT PROTECTANT | GLASS SKIN SPRAY |
I simplified my routine for travel—focusing on hydration, glow, and longevity. Long flights, late nights, and city air can do a number on your skin, so I made sure everything I brought pulled its weight. For hair products, I brought the absolute essentials to make my hair look decent.
Skincare Favorites
Hydrating cleanser – gentle and non-stripping.
Vitamin C serum – for bright, healthy skin in photos.
Moisturizer – something rich enough for dry airplane air but light enough under makeup.
SPF – always, even on cloudy Paris days.
Hair Essentials
Leave-in Conditioner – My one product to make my hair smooth and soft
Dry Shampoo – to go longer between washes
Heat Protectant – For drying and styling
Makeup Must-Haves
BAG | TINTED SPF | FOUNDATION STICK | RED LIPPIE | NEUTRAL LIPPIE | GLOSS | LIP LINER | CREAM SHADOW | BRONZER | EYE LINER | MASCARA | SHADOW POT | POWDER |
My Paris makeup mantra: fresh skin, flushed cheeks, and a great lip.
• Tinted moisturizer and foundation stick – easy and quick to apply.
• Cream blush – adds life back to travel-weary skin.
• Brow gel + mascara – simple but makes all the difference.
• Neutral cream eyeshadow – Easy Peasy look in one swipe.
• Lipstick in a Neutral & Parisian red – because some clichés are worth keeping.
💋 Beauty Lesson: When you feel good in your skin, you need less makeup—and somehow, everything looks better.
⸻
🧳 Packing Lessons Learned
After years of overpacking, this trip was a turning point.
Here’s what I learned:
• Capsule packing really works when you stick to one color palette.
• Travel-size skincare is your best friend (and your carry-on’s).
• Choose pieces you can layer, not outfits that only work one way.
💬 Final Thoughts
This trip reminded me of something I think we all forget sometimes: life doesn’t end when your kids are grown—it’s the beginning of a beautiful new chapter. Read my complete trip recap HERE! Traveling to Paris with that mindset made me appreciate every little thing, from morning cappuccinos to late-night walks along the Seine.
Here’s to packing light, living beautifully, and embracing your own version of je ne sais quoi.
XO
