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Planning for Paris

by habituallychic

08 . 22 . 09

I’m a notorious overpacker but that’s mostly because I always like extra options. One of the best ways to avoid overpacking is to plan out all your outfits in advance. This is especially helpful if you are attending an event like a wedding where don’t want to forget your special shoes and accessories. In an attempt to prevent myself from overpacking for my upcoming trip to Paris, I’ve started laying out what I might want to wear each day. Of course, I can’t finalize anything until I check the weather report a few days before I leave but this is a good start.

On the plane, I will probably wear my white JCrew jeans with a black silk tank from Rag & Bone and a cashmere cardigan (above). It’s best to wear slip on shoes to get through security quickly so I’ll wear my gold Louboutin flats. Accessories will include my new Phillip Lim necklace, bangle bracelets, Asha by ADM ring, and Prada bag. Inside the bag, will be a cashmere scarf, reading material, headphones, eye mask, moisturizer and Melatonin. I’d like to arrive looking chic and feeling refreshed! And if not, I will hide behind my Tom Ford sunglasses!

I’m not exactly sure about this orange dress since I’ve been advised to wear black everyday but it could be fun for when we attend Maison & Objet. I usually don’t wear a necklace with it but it looked better with one for styling purposes. The bangles and ring will be the same as before but I might wear my Roger Vivier sandals if it’s warm enough. Just in case it’s chilly or wet, I am packing a pair of nude Loeffler Randall wedge flats that can work with neutral outfits or my black dresses for day.

For sightseeing and shopping, I am going to wear my old black Phillip Lim dress with my new Phillip Lim necklace. This dress looks better belted so I have to remember to pack one. On my feet will be my black Roger Vivier sandals. Yes I have them in two colors! When you find something you like and it’s on sale, get it in every color!

I’ve been caught wearing inappropriate shoes, like opened toes Louboutin flats, to tour historic outdoor sites before which is the reason I bought the Hogan sneakers. We plan to spend many hours touring the chateau at Versailles as well as the gardens and Petit Trianon so I want to be prepared! My outfit will consist of white or blue jeans, little blush colored silk top with a JCrew striped cardigan. Jewelry will be bangles from before, blue stone ring, and pearl necklace on twine from Florence. And of course I can’t forget my camera! I’m taking a small Canon for quick pics and my Nikon for when I want more professional looking photos!

I’m really excited to wear my new Ports 1961 dress while in Paris. It has a thin layer of tulle under the skirt so it will be the perfect day to night dress. During the day, I’ll wear it with sandals or flats and I’ll pack a pair of heels and different jewelry for the evening.

Depending on the weather, I might have to pack a thin raincoat. Before my flight back, I will have time to walk around so I was thinking about bringing a blazer to wear with a blouse and trouser jeans. It’s better not to sleep when returning so you can go to bed at your regular time when you get home. Other helpful hints include packing bubble wrap which will fill up the empty spaces in your suitcase at the beginning and can be used to wrap your purchases for the trip back. If anyone else has some good travel tips or clothing suggestions, let me know! Bon voyage!

*Update: I just want to clarify that I don’t leave until September 2nd! I decided to plan out my outfits early so I would be prepared in case I needed anything. When I wait until the last minute, I usually get too busy to plan and that’s when I just throw everything in a suitcase and get to my destination missing a belt or without the right shoes!

57 Comments
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  1. ruth August 22, 2009 | 9:54 pm

    that prada bag is to die for. love all your outfit choices. have the best time.

  2. ms. less is always more August 22, 2009 | 9:57 pm

    amazing outfits! Have a blast!

  3. M.Lane August 22, 2009 | 10:03 pm

    I am SO jealous of your trip! I always pack way too much and just lug it around.

    Your outfits are fantastic…as one would expect from an Habitually Chic lady! I can’t wait for a report of Paris.

    ML

  4. Alie August 22, 2009 | 10:48 pm

    Fun post! – I am going to be in Paris around the same time so helping me think of what I need to pack too. And fun to think I have a similar trip to look forward to 🙂

  5. Ivy Lane August 23, 2009 | 12:04 am

    Love all your outfits!! can’t wait to see your posts from Paris..or when you get back!!!!!!

  6. Olivia August 23, 2009 | 12:27 am

    You are going to look tres chic! I think your loyal readers will need a Sartorialist, Habitually chic edition!

    Also, I hope you don’t mind my asking, but do you have any fear of wearing white pants on the plane? (Spilling something, or getting luggage marks,etc. on them?)

    Alas, all of your ensembles are just lovely, but I am especially enamored of your new Ports dress… it is tres mignon indeed! (What is the necklace with which you have styled it?… Je l’adore!)

    All of this is beautiful a backdrop to the wonderful time you will have!

  7. Habitually Chic August 23, 2009 | 12:46 am

    Ruth – the Prada bag was found for 60% off at Bergdorf Goodman! The recession sales this summer were amazing!

    Ms. Less – thanks! I can’t wait to leave!

    M.Lane – I do too which is why I’m trying to be good. I’m also wondering if my big Hartman suitcase will even fit in a French cab! But I’d rather have more options than get there and not be prepared for the weather or a last minute event!

    Alie – so fun! What are you packing???

    Ivy Lane – I am not sure I will have the time or energy to post while I am in Paris. Maybe I will Twitter but I don’t want to come back with a huge cell phone bill! But you’ll definitely see posts when I get back!

    Olivia – I already told Stefan that we will have to have some outfit photo shoots! I was thinking the white jeans might not be a good idea for the plane. I’ve done it before and they’ve looked ok but better to be safe than sorry. JCrew has some cute cropped stretch trousers that I might try. See why laying your clothes out helps! You can figure out what works and what doesn’t! Oh, and I bought the necklace at Anthropologie last summer. You could probably make one!

  8. Ms. Smart August 23, 2009 | 12:48 am

    I am so excited for you. Have a wonderful time. Tre’ chic darling.

  9. Rose C'est La Vie August 23, 2009 | 1:02 am

    You Naughty Shoe Person You! *Love* the Roger Vivier sandals and the Louboutins. Enjoy wearing the Ports dress. What will Stefan be wearing??!

  10. Kitty August 23, 2009 | 1:41 am

    bon voyage!

  11. style chronicle August 23, 2009 | 3:12 am

    Stunning ensembles! Do tell where you found that lovely Ports 1961 dress!

  12. Chic Provence August 23, 2009 | 3:29 am

    Great great choices!

    You could also opt to arrive two days earlier, with nothing packed, and SHOP SHOP SHOP!! LOL!!

    have fab trip, I want news from Maison & Objets aussie!

    Fait de beau voyage!

  13. SJ August 23, 2009 | 3:44 am

    Have a great time in Paris – your outfit choices and accessories are perfect! I’m going to Paris in September and am looking forward to planning my wardrobe as well. Can’t wait to see your photos!!! Bon Voyage!

  14. The Countess of Nassau County August 23, 2009 | 4:10 am

    It all looks fantastic. The only thing you might want to think twice about is the white jeans for the plane. Why risk getting them dirty before the vacation has even begun?

    Pack some Oxi-clean Spray-A-Way, a total lifesaver.

    The Viver sandals are fantastic, just be honest with yourself about comfort, you will be walking all day long.

  15. simply seleta August 23, 2009 | 4:39 am

    Oh my goodness, what an chic packing job for one amazing trip!!! Can’t wait to see how it was. You must post pics!

    Bon Voyage!

  16. Ron ( the Netherlands) August 23, 2009 | 9:23 am

    You know how to create goodlooking ensembles! The Parisians will think you are a local! For the best macarons make sure to stop at Piere Hermé, Rue Bonaparte and of course any Laduree pastry shop. Have lunch on second floor restaurant of the Laduree location on Champs Elysees, the rooms are amazing. Cocktails on chic courtyard at Lancaster boutique Hotel, Rue de Berry ( 2 minutes from Laduree) Flea markets at Clicancourt will of course already be on your list….
    Have a great time.
    Ron

  17. MEADE DESIGN GROUP August 23, 2009 | 10:03 am

    You can be an image consultant any day – Very cool outfits !

  18. le style et la matière August 23, 2009 | 1:18 pm

    How fun! You are a girl with flair. With these outfit layouts, you’ll truely be recognizable as Habitually Chic!

  19. mary August 23, 2009 | 1:20 pm

    Just remember, French women do not have a lot of clothes, but what they have is always great and classic and is added to with accessories, You’ll look amazing with anything you wearing!! I’m a little jealous about the Paris “thing”–it’s my most favorite city. September in Paris is going to be amazing.

  20. Anonymous August 23, 2009 | 1:23 pm

    Love this!!!!! You have great taste. Glamour Do all the way Suze

  21. Anonymous August 23, 2009 | 2:09 pm

    Just some tips from a regular traveller to France: definitely no white jeans on the plane! Save them for the countryside, not the city. Open toed shoes on the plane will leave your feet freezing-bring cashmere socks for the plane ride. Love the RV sandals but wouldn’t wear them in the city as your feet will end up too cold/wet/dirty- better to wear the flats although black ones won’t show the dirt the way nude ones will. For the city, the advice you received to wear black (plus anything Hermes) is the only way to go. Just shop once you get there and you’ll be fine!

  22. Habitually Chic August 23, 2009 | 2:39 pm

    Ms. Smart – Thanks! Can’t wait to leave!

    Rose C’est La Vie – Ha! I’m not sure what Stefan is wearing yet but I’m sure he’ll be fine. Men have it sooo much easier!

    Kitty – Thanks!

    Style Chronicle – I bought the Ports 1961 dress at their boutique in the meatpacking district. I don’t know if they have it still but you can call them.

    Chic Provence – I thoguht about that but the exchange rate is not so good right now! I heard we can’t take photos of Objet but you know I will try! At the least, I will have lots of new companies to introduce you to!

    SJ – How fun! I hope you have a good time too!

    The Countess of Nassau County – I know! I did wear white jeans before but I see your point. I will either wear darker jeans or buy a cute little pair of pants from J.Crew. I don’t like to wear dresses on long flights although they are comfy. I was already thinking I should bring stain wipes too! I walk all over NYC and wear sandals so I should be ok in Paris. And if I get tired, we’ll just have to stop for a drink!

    Simply Seleta – I don’t leave until September 2nd but will definitely post lots of pics when I get back!

    Ron – Stefan and I are most excited about the flea markets although they aren’t cheap! I might have to plan a trip to Belgium next!

    Meade Design Group – Thanks! I actually used to help my friends with their work wardrobes! Maybe I should charging them!

    Le Style – You know my readers in NYC recognize me by my shoes and bag so I wonder if any of my French readers will notice. That would be really funny!

    Mary – That why I figured I could probably just wear the same black dress everyday but I don’t want to be wearing the same outfit in every photo! Lol! I hope the weather is good!

    Suze – Thanks! Coming from you, that means a lot!

    Anonymous – Everyone has warned me on the white jeans so they are out now. I will be packing my cashmere slippers for the plane so my toes will be warm and comfy! I live in NYC which is one of the diriest cities and always wear sandals and light shoes. They sometimes get a little dirty but I just wipe them off at the end of the day. The nude Loeffler Randall flats are patent leather too so they are great in the rain. So I guess the orange dres might be out now so maybe I’ll wear the Phillip Lim dress twice. I’m not really a scarf person but maybe I will buy one from Hermes when I get there so I can fit in with the locals. Thanks! Too bad I can’t afford a Birkin!

  23. Greet August 23, 2009 | 3:15 pm

    I hope we all will be suprised with a lot of images of Paris!

    Greet

  24. Elle August 23, 2009 | 3:47 pm

    So glad you’ve opted out of the white jeans on the plane, and also glad you’re remembering cashmere slippers… What a grand adventure, and you’re leav ing on my birthday weekend… Pairs in September will be stunning!

  25. Anonymous August 23, 2009 | 3:51 pm

    All very nice but I favor the outfit in the last photo, which is really well coordinated IMO.

  26. City Living Girl August 23, 2009 | 4:31 pm

    Sooo jealous! I have not been since 1998. Way overdue for another trip. Are you staying in Paris? I highly recommend a trip to Provence! Forget the exchange rate, it is inevitable….Happy Shopping, Happy Eating and oh I think you will just love the museums! Bon Voyage!

  27. SK August 23, 2009 | 5:40 pm

    You are so thoughtful in all your planning! I like to plan my outfits in advance as well because otherwise, I spend too much vacation time on deciding what to wear!

    That bubble wrap idea is great – I hate it when my things move around after a flight.

  28. Lauren Jade August 23, 2009 | 9:25 pm

    LOVE!!! Very fun and gorgeous outfits!! 😀 have fun!!!

  29. drew-o-rama.com August 23, 2009 | 10:42 pm

    hehe, we both have the same travel guides for paris! the one in the second image with the orange dress is very good. i found it really good with finding the shopping areas off the beaten track.

    i’m sure you will look tres chic while there. have fun!

  30. Anonymous August 24, 2009 | 1:02 am

    I realize you only post compliments, but I’ll give this a shot, anyway–

    how on earth do you afford all this?

    Does blogging and freelancing really pay all the bills, or are mom and dad very generous?

  31. mb August 24, 2009 | 1:26 am

    Just got back from staying at the George V in Paris with my husband and family. I wore white jeans on the plane and for several day during our trip… thank goodness for laundry service. Heather, I packed in a carry on… I know, I know, not a glam gals choice, but useful at CDG airport. My husband insisted.
    Your clothing choices are beautiful, my guess, is that you will need more warm clothes. My best friends were my umbrella and short trench> with the great necklaces and purses. Bring your best/prettiest walking shoes, you will be happy.
    Have a wonderful time.

  32. Habitually Chic August 24, 2009 | 1:26 am

    Greet – You can count on it!

    Elle – I see now that the white jeans were a silly idea. I will figure out other pants so I don’t arrive looking like a dirty mess! Hope you have a great birthday!

    Anonymous – thanks! Can’t wait to get there and wear it!

    City Living Girl – We are staying in Saint Germain. I don’t think we will make it to Provence this time. We have a lot planned! Thanks!

    SK – I like to get to my hotel and hang everything up and know what I am wearing everyday so I don’t have to think about it when I am jet lagged and tired! I hope I find some good stuff at the flea market to wrap in bubble wrap!

    Lauren Jade – Thanks!

    Drew – I like that one because it’s small. I also love the Eyewitness guides but they are kind of heavy. Also, Taschen has a good one too that focusing on everything but the tourist sites since you probably already know about them anyway!

    Anonymous – actually there were no rude comments to this post except yours. As anyone who knows me in NYC can tell you, I work really hard and essentially 24/7. I bought a lot of those things very on sale. The bag and Vivier shoes were 60% off. The CL shoes were on sale at Barneys in January. The Phillip Lim necklace was $200. Not that it’s any of your business but my parents do not pay my bills.

  33. Habitually Chic August 24, 2009 | 1:30 am

    MB – I dream of staying at the George V! Lucky you! I don’t think I can pack a carry on beause of all my liquids. Plus I want room to buy things. I would do it if I could but not for 6 days. I was also thinking I might need the little trench and cashmere cardigans for over all my dresses. It’s hot now but the weather says 73 for those days but it could change. I really hope it doesn’t rain! Oh, and most importantly, what did you buy???

  34. Mujerluminosa August 24, 2009 | 2:18 am

    Hi HC,
    I love your clothing choices for dancing around Paris! I wish I were going too. love, love, love the sandals. I would also suggest some space bags which are life savers for stuffing in worn/soiled clothing and then compressing them flat. More room for goodies. I have sometimes even taken a pre-done FED EX slip and mailed stuff back to myself. Have a lovely time and thanks for sharing some of your fab wardrobe choices. Also, don’t forget a pretty notebook to jot down your thoughts!
    cheers,
    Stephanie

  35. Suzy August 24, 2009 | 5:27 am

    Going by this, you will look tres chic! Love those Roger Vivier sandals…super cute…might have to go on the hunt for a pair of these myself!

  36. Peony August 24, 2009 | 11:28 am

    Do not worry about shoes–there are many, many shoe stores at various price points in Paris–especially in St. Germain district! If you are not comfortable, just pop into one–they have stylish, practical walking shoes and boots. Also think you should consider the short trench or be prepared to purchase an umbrella while there. Even in the rain, you will adore every minute–I have read that it rains more in Paris than in London. Since scarves are worn year-round in Paris, you might wish to bring one (use on the flight) or make a special purchase there. As you people watch, you will pick up ideas on how to incorporate scarves into your look. Wait until you see the men–all ages–even teenagers–with scarves! Alert Stefan to have scarf at the ready! You are going to look smashing, sophisticated and Parisienne! I am so excited for you–look forward to your reports! Do not miss the Grand Epicierie–the gourmet “supermarket” behind Au Bon Marche and Poilane bakery–both in St. Germain. At Poilane, if they are not frantically busy, ask to see the bread chandelier–you will get a kick out of that design element!

  37. erin Ferucci August 24, 2009 | 3:51 pm

    this is the cutest cutest blog I have seen! Have a great time!! I wish I was going!!!!

  38. Natasha August 24, 2009 | 4:41 pm

    Your excitement is contagious! I will also be in Paris for the first time Aug 31 – Sept 7 and as a designer I’m so excited! Thinking of going to Maison show too but not sure. BTW Thanks for your post on Merci! Have a blast.

  39. Jess August 24, 2009 | 7:04 pm

    fabulous! every outfit, so chic. you’ll have no problem blending in as a parisian.

  40. mb August 24, 2009 | 8:51 pm

    Heather, confessions, confessions. While in Paris, I walked, shopped, went to museums, ate, hunted for paintings near the Beau Arts Academy and came home without making a single purchase for myself… although I bought my daughter Lucy two pairs of shoes and got several Herve Chapelier bags to give god-daughters as gifts. I know, I know, doesn’t sound equitable, yet I treated myself royally when I was in Paris less than a year ago. Life must have balance you know. 🙂 Have a wonderful time. Save your diet for when you arrive back home. There is wonderful food to behold in that town.

  41. Anonymous August 24, 2009 | 8:58 pm

    Wow! I LOVE your clothes and your style but of course I do bc I LOVE hab. chic!! have a wonderful time. love to access. w/ each outfit too! I am going to do that on my next trip! have a wonderful time

  42. Chic Provence August 25, 2009 | 1:09 am

    Thanks on getting whatever you can for us from Maison & Objet!!

    Will wait patiently while you have the time of your life…

    will you make it out to the flea markets? WORTH IT…if you do wear your rugged-est stuff….

    bon voyage!

  43. LPC August 25, 2009 | 2:51 am

    High WASP chic at its best…

  44. Lindsey Lou! August 25, 2009 | 12:46 pm

    First of all, I LOVE those sandals. Second of all, “Avez un bon temps a Paris.”

  45. City Living Girl August 25, 2009 | 1:31 pm

    You are staying in a wonderful area. Enjoy.

  46. sarah August 25, 2009 | 2:56 pm

    I was just in Paris in May…one of my favorite cities…

    I would make sure to pack some wraps or scarves for the trip.

  47. Paula Grace Designs August 25, 2009 | 4:33 pm

    Ahhh! Paris! I am dying to get back there. Over pack ~ you ever know!!
    Paula Grace ~
    http://www.paulagracedesigns.blogspot.com

  48. Anonymous August 25, 2009 | 4:33 pm

    You are damn good at this packing thing…I might copy all of your photos as reference for my next trip!
    I love your style, as usual, but these outfits also look so comfortable as well. How fun! Hope you have a wonderful time.
    Sonya

  49. Anonymous August 25, 2009 | 9:25 pm

    You simply have to bring a rain coat and collapsible umbrella – that’s non negotiable. Don’t forget how chilly Paris can get in the evenings. Add wet to chilly and you’ll be miserable. Best to be prepared (think chic Girl Scout:)

    And maybe pack a long-sleeved single ply cashmere crew-neck as well that matches the cardigan (instant, warm twinset). And it can look very streamlined and elegant with a pair of skinny jeans.

    And finally, try to swing carry-on only if you can. If it’s contact lens cleaner you’re thinking about ( do you wear contacts? I’m just guessing), just take individual pairs for each day and toss them out at night.

    If it’s shampoo/moisturizer etc, just cadge samples or decant into these teeny travel bottles from CVS. You will feel so much more liberated with a rolling carry on.

    And tuck a Longchamp pliage duffle (21 inch) into your suitcase. For the way home, check your main bag and carry this duffle (now filled with all the lovely stuff you’ve bought) as your carry-on.

    Have an amazing time. And I second whoever said diet when you get home. Of course, you’ll walk so much that even if you do indulge in too many macarons (is there even such thing?) and too much brie de meaux, you’ll walk it all off.

    best,

    Mitsouko

  50. ray August 25, 2009 | 11:20 pm

    your approach to packing is spot on. may I suggest bring a whole bunch of zip lock bags? this will facilitate delish and cost effective picnicing as parisian joints mostly wrap “to go” in lovely little paper triangles. have a blast doll

  51. Anonymous August 26, 2009 | 3:19 am

    Great blog! I’m going to Paris for MAISON & OBJET as well , see you there!Have a good one.

  52. princedeligne August 27, 2009 | 8:31 pm

    Heather,
    I think Holly Golightly would be proud. Have fun.

  53. Erika August 31, 2009 | 3:14 am

    I will be there at the same time for an engagement party (wedding to follow later) and am inspired by your ideas…even the comments were helpful (packing trench now). Thanks so much…and enjoy!

  54. Diva Style September 1, 2009 | 3:59 pm

    Love the chic ensembles! Oh so sophisto! 🙂 Hope you enjoy your trip!

  55. Neha September 8, 2009 | 12:57 pm

    Great travel outfit — love the Louboutin flats! I’m leaving for Provence on Friday and this has given me inspiration 🙂

  56. Tabitha December 3, 2010 | 2:27 pm

    Fabulous styling. I’m packing for Paris at the moment, now I see where I’ve been going wrong!

  57. gabrielle904 August 11, 2013 | 10:17 pm

    You are amazing, this is just what I needed. Fancy I had no idea there was such a skill to packing, thank you. Now I know why I often don’t have the right things or way too many items, I literally pack in 5 minutes.
    I love this alternative.
    Thank you again.
    Gabrielle