The Parisians look good, virtually always. As you transition into life studying abroad in Paris, you'll want to match their style, which helps many study-abroad students feel more integrated and in in touch with the native culture. Start your packing with the pieces that are going to make you look and feel great as you walk down the streets, but be mindful of both what is aesthetically pleasant and what is practical. To blend the best of both worlds in pursuit of your best possible looks for Paris, take a gander through the lessons I've learned below.
Secret pockets. The sad reality is that pickpockets are roaming all about the city, but when you pack your pockets carefully, you remove an immense amount of risk. Internal pockets on jackets are perfect for identification, money, and phones. If you're carrying a bag with you, find something that has some good spaces within to tuck and to hide, and be mindful of the sleekness and weight of the bag too, for your shoulders' sake!
Neutral tones. Paris is all about minimalism in fashion: black, white, gray, taupe, etc. The coat and blouse that Emily is donning in the left shot are simple but elegant and work well for so many contexts and occasions. Mila's scarf there on the right is an absolute essential for Paris. Everyone here has a scarf around their neck, and it's yet another of those pieces that will do wonders for keeping you warm on the chilly, rainy days.
Footwear. It's important! During the winter and early spring months especially, you'd be at a loss to walk around the city without a pair of waterproof shoes. My rainboots, pictured above on the right, have become a staple since the semester's start. When the rain clouds move onwards and the streets dry, a pair of white sneakers will help you blend in fashionably amongst the crowds here. They may be a bit harder to keep clean, but select a pair carefully and I imagine you'll find it a worthwhile investment. Best of all? White works with every outfit!
Secret pockets. The sad reality is that pickpockets are roaming all about the city, but when you pack your pockets carefully, you remove an immense amount of risk. Internal pockets on jackets are perfect for identification, money, and phones. If you're carrying a bag with you, find something that has some good spaces within to tuck and to hide, and be mindful of the sleekness and weight of the bag too, for your shoulders' sake!
Neutral tones. Paris is all about minimalism in fashion: black, white, gray, taupe, etc. The coat and blouse that Emily is donning in the left shot are simple but elegant and work well for so many contexts and occasions. Mila's scarf there on the right is an absolute essential for Paris. Everyone here has a scarf around their neck, and it's yet another of those pieces that will do wonders for keeping you warm on the chilly, rainy days.
Footwear. It's important! During the winter and early spring months especially, you'd be at a loss to walk around the city without a pair of waterproof shoes. My rainboots, pictured above on the right, have become a staple since the semester's start. When the rain clouds move onwards and the streets dry, a pair of white sneakers will help you blend in fashionably amongst the crowds here. They may be a bit harder to keep clean, but select a pair carefully and I imagine you'll find it a worthwhile investment. Best of all? White works with every outfit!
Layers. When you pack in preparation for your semester, fill the nooks & crannies of your suitcase with extra socks & underwear! You'll save yourself a few loads of laundry with the stash, and it's always nice to have plenty of those base layers to grab & go for each new day. Above those primary layers, bring a few good sweaters and pullovers! They may take up a bit more space in your suitcase—and your Parisian closet, too—but when carefully folded, they'll fit wonderfully and give you some good tools for maintaining your warmth and looking good!
Jared K. is the Spring 2018 CEA MOJO Photographer in Paris, France. He is currently a junior studying Management & Innovation and Global Studies at Champlain College.