What to Wear in Paris in October
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Paris in October is when the city fully leans into fall. You start to really feel the air turn crisp and see the leaves start to change colors. Compared to September’s more transitional dressing, it’s finally cool enough for layers, but not quite time for heavy coats.
If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, don’t stress, I’ve got you. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about what to wear in Paris in October, including Parisian fall outfits and autumnal staples that mix and match effortlessly.
Here’s exactly how to dress like a Parisian this season and simplify your packing list.
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In this Article
Weather in Paris in October
What to Wear in Paris in October
Paris in October Packing List
Paris in October Outfits
What to Pack for Paris in October
Weather in Paris in October
The weather in Paris in October is cool, crisp, and perfectly autumnal, despite the occasional chilly or rainy day.
You’ll still see late-blooming flowers in places like the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Tuileries, but the real sight to see is the fall foliage.
I highly suggest packing a compact umbrella for Paris in October. If the forecast calls for rain, also bring a pair of comfortable closed-toe shoes or waterproof ankle boots. I’d pass on rain boots though, as they can be uncomfortable for all the walking you’ll be doing in the city.
Expect average highs around 13–17°C (55–63°F) and lows near 8–10°C (46–50°F). Of course, always be sure to check the forecast for your exact travel dates!
You won’t need your heaviest coat yet, but it’s time to start bundling up just a tad, especially for cooler mornings and evenings. There might still be some hot days, so I recommend packing a short-sleeved top in your suitcase just in case.
Daylight hours are shorter now, with sunsets around 7 PM early in the month and closer to 6 PM by the end.
Overall, October in Paris feels like true fall, and it happens to be one of my favorite times of the year to visit.
What to Wear in Paris in October
Outerwear
Trench coat. Timeless and practical, especially for mild fall days and unexpected rain. Layer it over a sweater or light jacket for extra warmth. I almost never visit Paris in fall (or spring) without a trench coat in my suitcase.
Blazer. Smarten up any base outfit with a blazer. Choose one in wool or tweed for a little added insulation.
Leather jacket. For a cool and casual vibe, a leather jacket makes a great option for autumn in Paris. Bombers, perfectos or boxy and buttoned fits all work well.
Lightweight jacket. This one’s up to you. Select any lighter layers for day-to-night dressing: a cropped cotton trench, suede jacket, tweed veste or a lightweight half-coat.
A note on wool: even though October feels noticeably cooler, you likely won’t need a heavy wool coat yet. I like to focus on light to mid-weight layers you can build up or pare back as needed. Paris often surprises with moments of sunshine, so having flexible layers keeps you comfortable without overheating.
Tops
Knitwear. A tried and true fall essential, you’ll want to add a couple of sweaters to your Paris packing list. Cozy crewnecks, turtleneck styles, classic cardigans, whatever you please. You might even pack some short-sleeved knits for sunnier days.
Turtleneck. Elegant and made for layering. A slim-fit turtleneck looks effortlessly Parisian under jackets and sweaters. I’d pass on anything too bulky though.
Button-up shirt. A crisp button-up instantly sharpens your look. Try it under a sweater so the collar peeks out or wear it solo with trousers on milder days.
Blouses. Whether in silk, satin, or cotton poplin, a lightweight blouse is perfect for dinners, museums, or any moment that calls for something more polished.
Basic tees. Pack a few short- and long-sleeved tees for layering or casual days. Believe me, layers are everything when dressing for October in Paris.
Bottoms
Dark wash denim. My favorite for fall in Paris, particularly dark washes that feel more polished and seasonally appropriate. Wide-leg, bootcut, or skinny jeans all work. You’ll see all styles and silhouettes on the streets of Paris, so pick what you love.
Black denim. A sleek alternative to classic blue, black denim can pass for tailored pants in a pinch, so you dress more comfortably while looking chic.
Tailored pants. Elevate your Paris wardrobe with a pair of tailored trousers. A crepe or mid-weight fabric is your best option for October. I would simply skip the extremes like linen or heavy wool.
Mini and midi skirts. Optional, but if you love wearing skirts, I’d pack a mini or midi style and don’t forget a pair of tights. Style with loafers or knee-high boots for a classic Parisian vibe.
What about dresses? While not included in this capsule, a dress can also be on your Paris packing list. Knit or long-sleeve midi dresses are perfect for October. Layer with tights, leather boots, and a tailored jacket, and you’re set for everything on your itinerary.
Shoes
Sneakers. You’ll definitely need a comfortable pair of walking shoes for Paris. A broken-in pair that can handle 10,000+ steps a day is essential. Slim styles from Adidas and New Balance are everywhere in Paris right now, but if you need extra support, a chunkier option works too. It’s all about how you style it.
Ankle boots. A low, sturdy heel makes ankle boots great for day-to-night outfits. Flatter Chelsea boots are another stylish, practical option. I also love suede boots around this time of the year, but if rain is in the forecast, you might leave those at home.
Loafers. For the right balance of style and comfort, look to loafers. They can be dressed up with tailored trousers or a midi skirt or kept casual with denim.
Knee-high boots. Optional, but pair perfectly with skinny jeans or midi skirts. A tall boot takes up more space in your luggage (which is why I didn’t include them in this capsule), but if you love them, they might be worth it.
You will do plenty of walking in Paris (and on cobblestone streets), so practical footwear is arguably the most important part of any Paris packing list. For damp days, make sure to have at least one pair of waterproof shoes. Not necessarily rain boots, but something you don’t mind getting a little wet.
For dressier dinners or nights out, a simple, elegant heel can complete the look without overpacking. Totally optional though. I normally wear my ankle boots in the evening.
Accessories
Scarf. You likely won’t need hats and gloves, but a scarf is one French girl accessory I’d suggest packing. Lately I’ve been seeing cashmere and wool bandanas everywhere. For style more than warmth, go for a silky foulard.
Belt. Bulkier knits and jackets can make accessorizing tricky, but a belt is one piece that instantly transforms a fall look. Slim, wide, suede or studded, choose one that suits your style.
Crossbody bag. A comfortable day bag is a must for Paris. I often suggest a crossbody to keep your essentials secure and easy to reach.
Sunglasses. Even when the sun is shining less, a pair of sunglasses comes in handy on sunny afternoons.
Another word on bags: if you like a little extra room for a water bottle, souvenirs, or an umbrella, a lightweight tote is a great addition to your Paris wardrobe. Just be mindful not to overstuff it when you’re out all day. I also recommend selecting a tote or personal item that’s versatile enough to carry on your flight and throughout your trip.
Finish your looks with your favorite everyday jewelry. I also love a pair of statement earrings for dinners or evening outings. Fall layers can make it difficult to accessorize, but a bold accessory always does the trick.
Paris in October Packing List
Trench coat
2-3 jackets (leather, blazer, etc.)
2-3 sweaters
Turtleneck
Button-up shirt
1-2 blouses
2-3 basic tees
1-2 pairs of dark wash denim
1 pair of black denim
1-2 pairs of tailored pants
Midi or mini skirt (optional)
Knit or long-sleeve dress (optional)
Sneakers
Ankle boots
Loafers
Knee-high boots (optional)
Scarf
Belt
Crossbody bag
Tote bag
Sunglasses
Jewelry
Shop the Packing List
Paris in October Outfits
October in Paris calls for outfits that can take you from slow mornings at a café to chilly strolls along the Seine. You’ll need layers, cozy textures, and a few elevated basics that make dressing easy. Knitwear, jackets, denim, and boots, the pieces from the packing list above all work together seamlessly to keep you warm and chic in every arrondissement.
Blazer | Sweater | Wide-leg jeans | Loafers | Crossbody bag
What to Pack for Paris in October
Now that we’ve covered what to wear in Paris in October, let’s discuss the little extras that make your trip easier and a lot more enjoyable.
I don’t reach for my travel steamer as often in fall as I do in summer (since heavier fabrics like wool and denim don’t wrinkle as easily) but it’s still nice to have for keeping jackets and trousers crisp. Check your hotel or Airbnb listing first, though. Some offer irons so you don’t need to bring your own.
Wool jackets and pants tend to pick up everything, so a mini lint roller can be good to have at the ready.
Paris weather in October is often unpredictable, so a compact umbrella will save you from unexpected showers.
It’s easy to forget to hydrate in the colder months—remember to pack a reusable water bottle. You’ll walk a lot, and the Paris tap water is perfectly safe (and free at restaurants and cafés when you ask for une carafe d’eau).
Cold season starts creeping in, so keep a small pack of tissues in your bag. And if you do feel something coming on, just head to your nearest French pharmacy.
And don’t forget the sunscreen! I wear SPF every day, even in the winter, but it’s especially important if you’ll be outside all day in the city (even on overcast days).
As for the rest of my beauty routine, I like to keep it minimal while traveling. I typically pack along products for a no-makeup makeup look during the day, plus a few beauty essentials to elevate my look for evenings out. A hand cream, lip balm, and a fall perfume would also be in my toiletry bag.
And lastly, pack the everyday essentials like underwear, socks, and a long-sleeve pajama set. If you’re looking for more travel essentials, I have an entire post on my carry-on essentials for a long flight to Paris.
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What are you wearing in Paris this October? Let me know in the comments below.
