My husband and I are travelling to France in early June. We'll be spending half our time in Brittany and half in Paris. We've been there before, but this time we'd like to splurge on one or two gourmet dining experiences. The trouble is, what to wear? I am traveling light, with only my 21" roller board. My feet are always an issue, so I don't want to wear heels or a dress. So, my question: I'm thinking of ballet flats, black leggings and a long silky top...but I'm so out of touch regarding fashion. (I live in Florida.) Are Parisians still wearing leggings or would a nice pair of black slacks work better?
Posted by
Boston, MA, United States
1806 posts
Teens, 20s, early 30s wear leggings. Not seen much on middle aged or older women. Black dress pants would be more of the norm. If you are older & going to a fancy restaurant, you can get by with the drapey wide leg pants that stores like Chico's or TravelSmith sell which are very lightweight and virtually wrinkle proof. Paired with ballet flats, a nice top and earrings or a necklace you would have an outfit you can wear to dinners, drinks, concerts, theater, or other nightlife.
Posted by
Littleton, Colorado, United States
44 posts
What about the gents? Is a jacket required?
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Well I just looked at the website for Jules Verne( Eiffel Tower) and it stated no jacket and tie, but no tshirts or shorts . I know my dad went there two years ago with three other people. The two other men did wear suit jackets,, ( they were local so they didn't have to pack those!) the lady wore a dress, but my dad ( who had only taken a small bag to Paris) wore a pair of dockers and a casual jacket( its not a windbreaker , but just a nice casual jacket ) and none of the men wore a tie.
Posted by
Atlanta
800 posts
We were at Jules Verne last August. We dressed up-nice black dress and flat dressy sandals for me, light pants, dress shirt, sport coat and tie for husband. Glad we did. It was quite the occasion! And we both had carryon only for 2 1/2 weeks. The heaviest item was my husbands jacket. I think your idea of leggings and silky top sounds great-but I am in my 50's, so could be out of touch. The dress pants sound more boring to me, and heavy too but that may not be the case. Have a great time. This was the first time we had really dressed up on a trip andit was fun!
Posted by
OP
Fort Mill, SC, USA
70 posts
Thanks to all for your helpful replies. I'll be packing black dress pants!
Posted by
Germany, Germany
813 posts
Leggings with a longer silky top is definitely more every day/casual wear to Europeans. Also if you're under 40ish. Dress pants or knee-length skirt, flats and blouse is more dinner wear standard.