What To Pack For Paris In December
What could be a more magical time to visit Paris than in December, when the city is a magical wonderland filled with twinkling lights, Christmas markets, and nonstop festivities? Paris can also be cold, rainy, and icy though, during this time.
Today, I am sharing a round-up of items to pack to make your Paris trip in December memorable, fun, and comfortable.
What To Pack For Paris In December
Weather In Paris In December
The weather in Paris during December is cold and rainy. It’s rare for it to snow in Paris, but if it does when you are there, it will make it even more magical and picturesque. The average temperature is around 39 degrees (4 degrees Celsius), with the highest being 44 degrees (7 degrees Celsius).
You will want to make sure you are packing appropriately for this weather, especially if you plan to walk around the Christmas markets.
Shoes For Paris In December
Since the weather can sometimes be rainy and icy, you want to ensure you pack the right shoes. If possible, you will want to pack at least one to two pairs of waterproof boots. Some suggestions would be one tall pair and one Chelsea or lugsole pair.
You can also pack sneakers like VEJA, New Balance, or Adidas to blend in with the locals. If you are having dinner in the evenings, pack a nice pair of pumps, heels, or sparkly flats, but save them for inside only. Paris is full of cobblestone streets, so you don’t want to walk in these shoes on the icy cobblestones.
Neutral Outfits To Wear In Paris During December
When I travel to Paris, I prefer to blend in like a local. I like my outfits to be chic, classic, and timeless, and I also like to incorporate lots of Navy, just like a Parisian.
Think of a neutral color palette, this will make it easier to mix and match your outfits, providing the maximum versatility. Navy, Grey, shades of Brown, Black, and White of course. If you want to add in some color, do it by way of accessories like scarves, handbags, and hats.
You will also want to pack cashmere or wool sweaters, a pair of blue and black denim, wool trousers, a sweater dress or skirt, and a wool coat. A hooded rain jacket is also a great idea for those rainy days when you’re out walking around.
Layers To Pack in Winter
I always say pack layers for Paris no matter the season. The weather in Paris is so unpredictable and can change instantly. With a good selection of camis, tanks, and short and long-sleeve tees, you will be covered.
You might also think about cashmere wraps and any other cold-layer pieces you would want to wear.
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Cold Weather Accessories For Paris
You also want to be prepared with all the cold-weather accessories you will need such as a cashmere scarf or gloves, hats, a travel umbrella, and warm socks.
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Travel Gear For December In Paris
Important travel gear for December will be a travel umbrella, a portable phone charger, and adapters. I also like to pack a travel steamer, luggage scale, and eye patches. You can see a full list of travel essentials here.
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What To Pack For Paris In Winter
Here are 24 pieces to help inspire your Paris in December packing list. Pieces that are meant to be layered, worn casually, or dressed up.
Paris In December Packing List
ba&sh Paris Meredith Jacket
One of my favorite jackets from the brand and a beautiful color for the season.
Sandro Paris Ruffle Collar Blouse
I also love this ruffle blouse that instantly elevates a sweater or jacket.
J.Crew Regent Blazer
A classic blazer to wear with sweaters and blouses for day or night.
Rag & Bone Stripe Cardigan
This striped cardigan is so chic with the gold button detailing.
Madewell Straight Leg Denim
A classic pair of denim in a dark, rigid color that always looks timeless and chic.
Sézane Mini Milo Bag
I love the mini version of my favorite bag from Sézane for your phone and wallet. It’s so easy to carry and a crossbody is perfect for Paris.
Aritzia BodySuit
A sleek bodysuit to wear under sweaters and jackets.
Madewell Belt
Belts are big this season, and they can also instantly and easily elevate an outfit.
Quince Cashmere Lined Gloves
Make sure your hands stay warm with these cashmere-lined gloves.
J.Crew Long Coat
A classic coat to keep you warm while looking stylish at the same time.
ASTR Plaid Blazer
Wear a fun plaid blazer. Underneath, wear denim, a tie-neck blouse, or a cream sweater.
Veronica Beard Suede Handbag
A beautiful handbag for the season that has a crossbody strap as well.
J.Crew Wool Black Trousers
A classic and well-priced pair of wool trousers to keep you warm. Wear them with boots or even sneakers.
Veronica Beard Sneakers
Animal print is big in Paris now and these stylish sneakers will help add a pop to your outfits.
Everlane Navy Cashmere Sweater
Stay warm in cashmere with this classic sweater.
MOTHER Denim
Wide-leg denim with boots or sneakers is a flattering and on-trend style to pack for Paris during any season.
Quince Tie Neck Blouse
Timeless tie-neck blouse that looks elevated and elegant.
Alex Mill Sweater Jacket
JCrew Faux Leather Pants
I like to pack my favorite faux leather pants for Paris during winter. I also wear them with sweaters or blazers and feel a bit sexy.
Quince Midi Silk Skirt
I also love this beautiful midi skirt for dinner or museum days. Pair it with slingbacks or tall boots.
Blondo Waterproof Boots
A pair of waterproof boots is always a good idea for Paris in winter, as they protect your feet from the cold rain.
J.Crew Black Cashmere Sweater–
Make sure to pack one or two classic sweaters.
J.Crew Slingbacks
A chic slingback to wear for dinners and evening events.
Nordstrom Cashmere Scarf
Make sure your neck stays warm with this cashmere scarf.
Shop Tops and Jackets For Paris In December
More Pieces To Pack For Paris In Winter
Outfit Inspiration For December
If you need help putting together some outfit ideas, here are some inspirational looks for you to pack for Paris in December.
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Thank you, Noelani! It’s nice to have confirmation that lug sole loafers will be a good sneaker/flats alternative. And I am ordering some merino wool knee-high socks as well. 🙂
–Michelle
Hi there,
I will be in Paris for the holidays and find your blog very helpful, thank you! I have already ordered the wool pants and bodysuits you posted.
In your post about December outfits, it seems you have a lot of outfits that have a jacket but no coat. Can I expect to be able to walk around Paris in December with for example a warm cashmere sweater and blazer & no coat as your outfits seem to suggest? Or would I plan to wear an overcoat for outside and check it upon arrival at my destination? Being a SoCal gal, cold weather is tough for me to plan for! So my question is should I plan to wear an over coat everyday and bring one that fits over my blazer, oversized knitwear and Chanel type jacket? Thanks!
Hi Carol,
Yes, all of those outfits are made with the knowledge that you will absolutely need to wear a coat in December. You won’t want to walk around without one. I would also make sure you pack layers, gloves, and a warm scarf! So plan to wear a coat everyday and one that would go over your blazer and knits.
We will be in Paris in late January (after trotting about England over the holidays and then Tunisia), so your December packing list is extremely helpful (I have already ordered the wool insoles 🙂 ). I have a pair of lug-sole waterproof Blondo boots, but also want to pack a pair of comfortable shoes for walking about when it’s not raining. I do not wear sneakers (unless I am going to the gym) so I am thinking that a pair of lug sole loafers would work since they would be warmer than my usual flats and keep my feet drier if it’s a bit wet. Would loafers be a good choice? If so, are there any loafers with a thicker sole that you might recommend? Thank you! –Michelle
I am with you on the sneakers! I keep wondering if I should bring my adidas sambas but I think they look too casual with the clothes I have planned, do not really get the sneakers with trousers look! I have limited space and think 2 pairs of boots are a better way to go…
Hi Carol,
Yes, I think you will be good with 2 pairs of boots.
Have a great time,
Noelani
Hi Michelle,
Yes, lug sole loafers would be great! You can also wear socks with them or even knee highs to keep your feet warm. All the ladies over there do this.
Have a great trip,
Noelani