Style

Packing for Paris: How to Dress Your Kids Smartly

Packing for Paris: a group of children dressed in classic Parisian outfits, posing on a bridge in Paris.
Capturing the essence of Parisian kidswear—charming, timeless, and perfect for city adventures.

Planning a summer trip to Europe with kids and wondering about packing for Paris? Dressing them appropriately for the weather, cultural norms, and lots of walking is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Parisian children’s fashion leans toward simple, timeless, and practical outfits, avoiding overly flashy or overly casual styles.

This guide will help you pack wisely so your kids stay comfortable and stylish. If you’re looking for the best French clothing brands for kids, check out my complete guide here.

Packing for Paris: Parisian Kids’ Summer Style

A little girl wearing a jumpsuit from the French brand Bonton. Perfect to explore the city during a summer heat wave.
Jumpsuit from Bonton, perfect to explore the city during a heat wave.

French children are typically dressed in practical yet stylish outfits that prioritize comfort, breathability, and versatility. While there is no strict dress code, Parisians tend to avoid overly bright colors, heavy logos, or athletic wear outside of sports settings.

Instead, they opt for light fabrics, classic cuts, and subtle details—a style reflected in many top French children’s clothing brands.

Packing for Paris Guide: What to Bring on Your Trip

A toddler in a pink outfit with a cute ice cream print, ideal for a Parisian summer.
French kids’ summer fashion keeps it playful and practical—Bonton’s prints add a charming touch.

Here’s a breakdown of essential clothing items to pack for your kids in Paris this summer.

1. Everyday Outfits: Simple & Stylish

Child in elegant French clothing, featuring embroidery and tailored details.
A refined yet playful look—ideal for a stylish summer in Paris.
  • Breathable cotton or linen tops (solid colors, stripes, or subtle prints)
  • Bermuda or chino-style shorts (denim cut-offs are less common)
  • Casual dresses or skirts (light and airy for girls)
  • Comfortable jeans or lightweight trousers for cooler evenings

Tip: Avoid slogan T-shirts or loud prints—French parents favor understated, classic styles.

2. Packing for Paris: Don’t Forget Layers for Unpredictable Weather

Packing for Paris: two stylish children wearing layered outfits from Cyrillus, including a navy peacoat and beige jacket, perfect for unpredictable Parisian weather.
Mastering layers for a Paris trip—Cyrillus offers timeless coats and smart layering pieces for unpredictable weather.
  • Parisian weather can change unexpectedly, so layering is key. Pack:
  • A light cardigan or sweater for breezy mornings and evenings
  • A lightweight jacket (windbreaker or trench-style) for occasional rain
  • A packable raincoat—summer showers in Paris can be sudden

3. Packing For Paris – Footwear: Walking-Friendly Shoes

A child wearing light-wash denim shorts and navy sneakers—perfect for exploring Paris in the summer.
French kids favor relaxed yet structured summer shorts and simple sneakers in neutral colors —easy to wear and city-ready.

Since Paris involves a lot of walking, comfortable shoes are a must:

  • Canvas sneakers (Bensimon or Veja are popular choices)
  • Leather sandals (neutral colors are preferred)
  • Ballet flats or loafers (for slightly dressier occasions)

Tip: In Paris, flip-flops are considered for the beach only, not the city. Stick to practical yet stylish footwear.

4. Sun Protection & Accessories to Pack

A smiling child wearing navy blue Izipizi sunglasses, a stylish and protective summer essential.
Sun protection is key in Paris—these Izipizi sunglasses are both practical and stylish for little ones.
  • To keep kids protected from the sun, bring:
  • A wide-brim hat or cap for sightseeing
  • Sunglasses with UV protection, like these from French brand Izipizi.
  • A small crossbody bag or backpack for essentials and essentials

What NOT to Pack

To avoid overpacking, skip these unnecessary items in your suitcases:

  • Super bright neon colors or heavy logos (not common in local fashion)
  • Flip-flops for city wear (better suited for the beach or pool)
  • Heavy denim jackets (too warm for summer)
  • Oversized backpacks (bulky and impractical for public transport)

Packing for Paris Cultural Considerations: Do Kids Wear Shorts in Paris?

A young boy wearing a green polo and striped shorts, perfect for summer travel in Paris.
A classic summer look for boys in Paris—comfortable yet polished, ideal for strolling through the city.

Yes, kids in Paris wear shorts during the summer. However, they are typically longer, Bermuda-style shorts rather than very short or frayed styles. If you plan on visiting churches, nicer restaurants, or cultural sites, it’s best to opt for lightweight trousers or skirts instead.

Where to Shop for Kids’ Clothes in Paris

If you’d like to add a touch of Parisian style to your child’s wardrobe, check out these boutiques:

Packing Smart for a Parisian Summer

Dressing your kids for a summer trip to Paris is all about balancing comfort with a timeless Parisian aesthetic. Pack lightweight, classic pieces and comfortable shoes to ensure they feel great while exploring the city.

For more inspiration on French kids’ fashion, check out my guide on the best French clothing brands for kids before your trip!

Want to read more? Check out our other articles below!

Curated Picks Effortless Parisian Style Exhibitions in Paris French Beauty French Books & Literature French designers French Etiquette French Gift Ideas French History French Recipes French Traditions Kids Activities in Paris Lingerie Brands Links I Love Parisian Cafés Parisian Fashion Paris Landmarks Paris Local Favorites Paris Month by Month Paris Parks and Gardens Paris Restaurants Guide Paris Sweet Treats Paris Travel Tips Romantic Paris Seasonal Fashion Shopping in Paris Things to Do in Paris

Similar Posts