If you’ve ever binged Emily in Paris and thought, “I’m packing that for my trip to Paris,” pause right there, mon amie. Emily may be serving bright colours, berets, and sky-high stilettos in every episode, but any seasoned fashion girl knows that real Parisian style is a different kind of je ne sais quoi.

So, before you fill your suitcase with all things tulle and neon, let’s get into what you should be wearing in the City of Lights.

This isn’t just another Paris fashion guide, it’s the luxury girl’s no-nonsense, très chic manual for dressing like you belong on the front row at Chanel. Don’t get me wrong, Emily is charming, but she’s more Instagram fantasy than reality. Here’s what you should pack for your dream vacation to Paris (take notes).

Parisians have learned the art of looking stylish effortlessly. Consider Jane Birkin, Marion Cotillard, or Léa Seydoux, never too done, but always beautiful. That’s the vibe. While Emily might be packing sequin blazers and multicoloured coats, the real icons are reaching for timeless pieces: a tailored blazer, a silk blouse, a great pair of jeans. Your luxury-girl packing list?

A classic trench from Burberry, straight-leg jeans from Acne Studios, a crisp white shirt, and loafers from Tod’s or Chanel. Don’t forget a neutral cashmere sweater from Celine or The Row have great options. A real Paris fashion guide wouldn’t be complete without these staples. And for accessories?

Choose a structured handbag (think: Hermès, Chloé, or Saint Laurent) and keep jewellery minimal. And for the love of Dior, leave the Eiffel Tower-shaped purses to the tourists. One of the biggest fashion faux pas Emily makes? Trying too hard. Paris style whispers; it never screams.

One of the biggest shocks Emily experiences is walking into a room full of Parisians dressed head-to-toe in black while she’s decked out in pink checks and florals. Sound familiar? Wearing black in Paris is not boring, it’s powerful. A black midi dress with gold hoops and leather ankle boots is a whole mood.

Want to spice it up? Add a statement belt or a red lip. When it comes to what to wear in Paris? Without a doubt, black is your best friend. It matches everything and makes you feel put-together, even after three espressos and no sleep.

Emily might trot around Montmartre in stilettos, but your feet will be crying before you make it past your first croissant. Here’s the deal: Paris is a walking city. Cobblestones, metro stairs, and impromptu wine-fuelled wanderings don’t mix well with 5-inch heels. Instead, go for luxury flats or chic ankle boots.

Brands like Chanel, Roger Vivier, and Repetto offer options that are fashionable and functional. You’ll look just as fabulous as Emily, without the foot pain. What to wear in Paris often starts at the bottom. Good shoes carry good style, and in Paris, comfort is never sacrificed for fashion-it’s woven into it.

Paris weather can be capricious; bright sunshine in the morning, drizzle at lunch. Begin with a fitted tee or turtleneck, layer with a light cardigan or blazer, and top off with a fitted trench or wool overcoat. A trench is the ultimate Paris staple. It says, “I’ve got somewhere fabulous to be,” even if you’re just grabbing an espresso. That is a luxury girl power move. This isn’t just style; it’s strategy.

When choosing what to wear in Paris, always bring pieces that are versatile and layer well and can be worn from day to evening. And, pro tip: always bring a scarf. A Hermès silk scarf or even a vintage scarf from a Paris flea market adds a touch of elegance and can tie your whole outfit together.

Let’s get real: Emily’s makeup is always perfect. But the French girl’s beauty hack? Minimal effort, maximum impact.

A dewy base, a coat of mascara, a flushed cheek, and perhaps a dramatic lip’s it. Forget heavy contouring. Embrace fresh skin and lightweight textures. Radiant skin is the best accessory; no filter needed. The goal isn’t to cover up, it is to enhance. Style in Paris is holistic. It’s how you carry yourself, not just your outfit.

At the end of the day, style in Paris is all about confidence, restraint, and a little bit of mystery. Don’t get caught up trying to dress like a TV character (no shade to Emily-okay, maybe a little). Instead, embrace fashion that feels good and looks good. This Paris fashion guide isn’t about copying someone else’s look-it’s about finding your version of effortless elegance.

Paris rewards authenticity, confidence, and timeless style. Whether you’re sipping café crème on Rue Saint-Honoré or getting lost in a bookstall along the Seine, your outfit should say, “I belong here.” Even if your GPS is saying otherwise.

So, the next time you’re wondering what to wear in Paris, ask yourself this: Would a Parisian stop and stare, in a good way? If the answer’s oui, you’re already halfway there.