Paris in winter is one of the most exciting destinations, especially for newlywed couples to cuddle up. This is the time when one of the most famous cities in the world will light up like a glorious Christmas tree. The winters here are extremely cold and it is impossible to survive without the right winter wear. Paris has always been known for its style and fashion, and winters are no different. There are multiple winter wear options available for styling for both men and women.
Walking through the streets of Paris, you’ll see that the local Parisian men do possess a unique sense of style and fashion that anyone would love to be a part of. So, if you don’t want to stand out like just another tourist, here are a few things you can do to blend in.
Dressing the Parisian Way
Regardless of the glamorous perception of Paris, being the fashion capital of the world, Parisian men are known for their conservative attitude with their appearance. Of course, a form of diversity exists with each individual here, but a common approach towards style can be deduced easily and many have done exactly that.
Parisian men tend to look for quality in their clothes. That means the durability of the garment counts, as well as comfort. There is a general tendency to prefer natural fabrics over artificial ones. Cotton, wool or even cashmere are some of the common choices you would see here.
Bhushavali, a fashion designer and an ardent traveller, who has visited Paris multiple times, makes a few practical suggestions. “For Indians, even French summer isn’t too hot. Carry heavy winter wear if you’re visiting in winter or at least carry shawls with you if you’re visiting in summer. Don’t forget that you’re in the fashion capital of the world. So, don’t be afraid to be experimental.”
Prrems’s Fashion Essentials for Him
Winter fashion is a subtle art of hiding under the layers and looking good while doing it. To get that typical Parisian look, several features of your wardrobe need attention. The most important aspect for dressing like a Parisian man is to show off your personality within the comfort of your attire.
May it be a jacket you are wearing or a suit, make sure it fits you well. The idea is to get an attire that makes you feel comfortable and look good. You can get your clothes tailor-made, such that it would define your body. A typical Parisian attire will have some of its unique properties worked on by a skilled tailor, such as thinner waits and narrow trousers.
Give preference to more classy versions of popular clothing types. For example, if you want to wear a t-shirt, just get a polo shirt instead. And, how about an ever-trendy trench coat lending certain poise to your personality? If you ever decided to go for one, black is the favourite colour to go by, along with beige. Merino Wool sweaters are always elegant, certainly ones with solid colours.
In winter, Paris will be chilly or better described by Bhushavali as, “Spine chilling cold”. So, scarves are essential. Men in Paris are more experimental with regards to the type, fabric and the colour of scarves they’ll wear. This is something rather delicately attuned with the rest of their attire. Scarves in the streets of Paris would never go out of fashion. Tie a scarf with a European style knot, when strolling through streets at night, something you can do on any type of clothes.
Wear your clothes in layers, in such a way that every single shirt or jacket will affect the overall appearance. Make each layer to peak out a little, with colours that will complement each other. Lighten up the mood of the night by adding a pop of colour in the monotone colours of the winter landscape.
Get the Right Footwear
Your feet would need some added warmth for better comfort, on the streets of Paris. Shoes available with a warm lining should keep your feet well insulated with their woollen or fleecy lining. Socks made out of pure wool would complement these shoes very well. Remember, your shoes should be comfortable for you to walk on the streets of Paris without any hassle, so get the slip-resistant shoes with comfortable anti-skid soles. There are few options available in the market, namely Ugg Boots, Snow Boots etc. that you can choose from.
Things to Do in Paris
Winter is considered as the ‘low season’ as far as the number of tourists is concerned. In some way, this would be ideal for you, as there will be fewer crowds anywhere you go. Hotel prices will be low along with shorter queues for museums and other monuments.
During winter, one thing you cannot miss is skating on the specially created skating rink at the Paris city hall. The restaurants around the city will be serving some of the finest dishes in all of Europe, so getting a taste of the famous French cuisine should be on top of your list for things to do in Paris.
Bhushavali has a piece of important advice for you. “Travel by Metro”. Try figuring out connecting trains just with the map and not asking anyone! Visit places according to season.” For example, it would be great to visit the Musée Jacquemart-André during winters to admire the beauty of the paintings and portraits while feeling warm indoors. The museum also hosts the Perugino exhibition that runs until January 19.
If you are planning for a time-frame near the holiday season in December, you can witness the entire city of Paris lighting up with decorations of all sorts. The most mesmerising experience thus would be a walk along the Champs-Elysées at night, right up to the Arc de Triomphe. The glorious display of lights along the streets will be one among those few deeply held memories, you will preserve for the rest of your life.
