How to Dress for a Heatwave in Paris
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Source: Lison Sebellin
Paris can get hot, hot, hot in the summer. While many Parisians escape the city this time of year, those of us visiting are left wondering: what do you wear during a heatwave? Dressing for hot weather in Paris takes a little more finesse than just throwing on a swimsuit and flip-flops (like you might do in the South of France or the countryside). The so-called “Parisian dress code” is a bit more polished and modest than how you might dress for a beach day on the Côte d’Azur.
But looking chic and surviving under the sun is not an impossible feat. After living through more than one heatwave in France (with no air conditioning, mind you), I’ve learned a thing or two about what to wear for hot weather. Because there is really nothing worse than being sticky and sweaty on vacation, especially in a city like Paris.
From breathable fabrics to sun-protective accessories, here’s how to dress for a heatwave. Perfect for Paris when sizzles or wherever else your summer travels take you.
Know Your Fabrics
When Paris heats up, your fabric choices matter more than ever. You’ll want to ditch heavy synthetics like polyester, nylon and acrylic, which are known to trap heat and moisture. Instead, reach for breathable options like linen and lightweight cotton.
Although 100% natural fibers are technically better for hot weather, linen and cotton blends can be a good option if you’re trying to avoid the wrinkles that come with them. I personally love my all-linen pants, but I don’t wear them often when I’m traveling since they crinkle very easily. Below are some pieces that will keep you cool without as many creases.
Keep It Breezy
When packing for summer in Paris, leave out any tight, clingy clothing like super fitted tees, bodycon dresses, skinny jeans, etc. These are only going to retain heat and make you feel hotter. And thankfully, figure-hugging styles aren’t as popular as they used to be.
Instead, fill your suitcase with flowy, relaxed styles that let the air circulate. Peasant tops, empire-waist sundresses, Palazzo pants and really any oversized silhouette will be your go-tos on sweltering summer days.
I’ve already touched on wearing shorts in Paris. While they’re not as common in France as they are in the U.S., you’ll definitely see more Parisians wearing them during a heatwave. If you decide to pack shorts, I’d suggest a slightly longer, flowy style. You don’t necessarily need to wear a full-on Bermuda, but I would avoid microshorts if your goal is to blend in a bit more with the locals.
Bring Extra Basics
When I’m packing for Paris in the winter, I rewear everything—sweaters, pants, coats. But for summer, it’s a bit harder to do when you’re sweating a lot. You might need to change your shirt during the day and maybe won’t want to rewear the same thing the next day. That’s why I always pack a few extra basics like t-shirts and tanks. They’re so lightweight that they’ll take up no space, and you’ll be happy to have a couple of extra options with you.
Dresses Are Your Best Friend
Summer dresses are forever my go-to for hot weather in Paris. They're breezy, low-effort, and look instantly put-together, all while taking up very little space in your luggage.
Maxi dresses, sundresses, and shirt dresses in breathable fabrics like linen or cotton are ideal. You want more fluid styles that let you move freely, so nothing too tight or short.
Dresses also pair nicely with all kinds of shoes, so you can really dress your outfit up or down depending on your plans. Sneakers, flats, and sandals during the day, wedges, mules and heeled sandals for evenings.
Lean Into Lighter Colors
Dark colors like black, navy and charcoal gray tend to absorb heat, making you feel even hotter in the sun. Lighter shades, on the other hand, reflect sunlight and help keep you cooler, so if you’re trying to beat the heat, opt for pastels, whites, and soft neutrals.
I know white isn’t everyone’s favorite color to wear while traveling, since it can show dirt more easily. A good compromise are lighter neutrals like beige, cream or gray. Whenever I do wear white, I usually have my Tide Stain Remover Pen with me just in case.
One thing to keep in mind: while light colors help reduce heat and sweat, they can make underarms and back stains more visible. So there is a trade-off, but for me, staying cool is better than showing a little sweat. In my Paris in July packing guide, I show you exactly how to wear darker colors in the summer.
Prepare Your Outfit Ahead of Time
Save yourself some time in the morning by preparing your outfit the night before (or on the first day of your trip). In summer, wrinkled linen or cotton won’t do you any favors, so give them a quick steam (whether with a dual voltage travel steamer, your hotel’s, or just a steamy shower). Sometimes, just hanging your clothes up after unpacking is enough to help them fall back into shape.
Unlike winter, when I can grab knits and denim straight from my suitcase, I find that summer outfits need a bit more forethought.
Accessorize for Sun Protection
Sun protection is essential for your health, but it can also be incredibly stylish with the right accessories.
The most obvious must-have are sunglasses. You’ll see a variety of shapes and styles in Paris, from sleeker shades to more oversized frames. Almost anything goes, so I’d go with whatever suits your face best. But generally, the bigger the lenses, the better the coverage for your eyes and the skin around them.
Read More: 10 French-Girl Accessories You'll See Everywhere in Paris
A straw hat can also be a smart, stylish way to shield yourself from the sun. I would leave the large floppy hats at home (unless you’re heading to the South of France too). Something smaller like a bucket hat or a packable boater feels more appropriate for Paris.
Baseball caps are not as common as they are in the U.S., but I have seen more and more French people wearing them (mostly for fashion, not because they love a sports team). I wear mine in Strasbourg a lot, but I probably wouldn’t bring them with me to Paris to avoid looking too touristy.
You may know that the French love their scarves. A cotton scarf or shawl can come in clutch on ultra-hot days to cover your shoulders (perfect if you’re visiting churches and other religious sites). A lightweight twilly scarf tied around your neck, hair, or bag is another heat-friendly way to accessorize in Paris this summer.
Don’t Forget Footwear
It can be tricky, but you’ll want shoes that let your feet breathe and can handle all the steps you’ll be clocking.
Sandals are probably your best bet for extreme temps, but some are far more practical than others. Chunkier sandals will support your feet much better than super slim footbeds. I’ve seen Parisians in flip-flops and t-strap styles, but remember that they’re probably not walking as much as you are as a tourist. I wear my leather slides when I’m out in Strasbourg, but if I was out all day sightseeing, my feet would be dead by midday.
The only time I would wear a less supportive sandal is for an evening out when you’re grabbing dinner and drinks and not doing a ton of walking.
Ballet flats are my favorite, but in a heatwave, they might feel a bit stuffy (especially if you’re out and about all day long). A mesh, woven, or open-toe style can be a more breezy alternative.
No matter the temperature, you’ll definitely want a pair of sneakers on your packing list. I’ve found that thin moisture wicking socks can really help avoid that sweaty, suffocated feeling on your feet.
Read More: The 10 Best Walking Shoes for Paris
Espadrilles are another famous French shoe for summer. I see them more often in the South of France and along the coast in Brittany though.
Heat-Proof Your Beauty Routine
SPF is non-negotiable! Paris might not feel tropical, but UV rays don’t care, so be sure to pack a lightweight facial sunscreen and apply it daily. Consider it the perfect excuse to stop by the French pharmacy and discover a new favorite!
To keep my makeup from melting off, I go for a low-maintenance look: a tinted moisturizer, a little bit of concealer and powder, cream blush and waterproof everything. If you want to elevate your look without doing much else, a bold lip feels very Parisienne. Something like the Bisou Balm from Violette_FR is perfect for a sheer wash of color.
Doing your makeup is one thing, maintaining it throughout the day is another. I always add blotting papers, a mini face mist and deodorant in my bag. A bit of translucent powder and whatever lip color I’m wearing come along too. Just enough for a quick touch-up in the bathroom when I’m out all day in the city.
Read More: French Deodorant: My Honest Thoughts and Recommendations
Hair-wise, move it up and off your neck to keep cool. A slickback bun is how I’ll normally style my hair when I need it out of the way. It also lets me smooth out any frizziness and flyaways that, for me, are guaranteed in the heat and humidity. I also love a hair scarf or bandana.
Hot Weather Packing List
Breezy dresses
Billowy tops and blouses
Lightweight jacket or cardigan
Flowy skirts and pants
Open-toe shoes
Sneakers with thin moisture wicking socks
Anti-chafe shorts or stick
Cotton underwear
Moisture-wicking socks
Sunglasses
Straw hat (optional)
Folding fan
Reliable deodorant/antiperspirant
Blotting paper
Final Thoughts on Dressing for Hot Weather
Paris can get très hot, especially in July and August. If you don’t want poor outfit choices to ruin your trip, be sure to pack with comfort and style in mind. Although I’m all about how to look chic in summer, at the end of the day, I’d rather feel good and slightly imperfect than hot and miserable.
If you do end up packing the wrong clothing, luckily, you’re in the fashion capital of the world, so go shopping! I have plenty of resources on the best French fashion brands and where to shop on a budget in Paris.
How do you dress for hot weather? Have you visited Paris during a heatwave? Let me know in the comments below.
