March 16, 2020
byOlivia Hunt
With carefully-ironed co*cktail dresses and high heels, my roommates and I felt no reason to second-guess the outfits we’d picked for our first night out while studying abroad in Paris. As soon as we hopped off the metro to the main nightlife street, however, we realized that we didn’t have a clue what the locals wore out. Honestly, though, we weren’t too hard on ourselves—it’s pretty confusing. Parisians have numerous unspoken dress codes, especially regarding evening wear. Luckily, you can learn from our major faux pas and wear the perfect outfit out, no matter where you decide to explore after dark.
Restaurants
For most restaurants and bars, the dress code is dressed-up casual. So, if you do decide to go with a co*cktail dress, the norm is for it to be accompanied by tights and a sweater/light jacket. This isn’t because Parisians are against showing skin; it’s just not typical for this type of setting. People would just give you some funny looks (wondering how cold you must be). More common, though, would be to wear a casual dress (with tights, of course) or rip-free denim jeans with a nice top. Boots and heels are often worn, but it also isn’t unusual to spot women wearing sneakers on their nights out. As a general rule of thumb, clothing that has holes or is extremely oversized can be frowned upon at a lot of places. And baseball caps/ hats are almost always a no (unless you go to a sports bar…maybe).
Clubs/High-End Outings
If you’re headed somewhere to tear up the dance floor or indulge in some fancy food and refreshments, the dress code will likely be stricter. Jeans (besides dark or black-wash) are usually safest to avoid. I’d recommend a skirt, tights, and a nice blouse—paired with either boots or heels. If you're ever unsure of what would be allowed, opt for semi-formal attire: a dress or skirt (always with tights) or slacks. In case of super dress-code confusion--which can certainly happen--don't hesitate to call the venue before-hand. They're not exactly known for being more understanding towards tourists, and better to be safe than sorry!
Learn more about studying abroadin Paris.
Olivia Hunt is the Spring 2020 CEA MOJO Blogger in Paris, France, and is currently studying at University of San Diego.
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As an avid traveler with a particular focus on studying abroad and cultural immersion, I've had the pleasure of exploring various destinations, including the enchanting city of Paris. My firsthand experiences and in-depth knowledge make me well-equipped to guide you through the intricacies of navigating local norms and etiquette, especially when it comes to the nuanced world of Parisian fashion.
Now, delving into the content you provided regarding packing for study abroad in Paris, let's break down the key concepts:
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Dress Codes in Paris: The article emphasizes the importance of understanding and adhering to Parisian dress codes, particularly when venturing out in the evening. It highlights the subtle yet crucial distinctions in attire based on the venue, whether it's a restaurant, bar, or a high-end club.
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Restaurants and Bars: The dress code for most restaurants and bars in Paris leans towards dressed-up casual. The norm involves pairing a co*cktail dress with tights and a sweater or light jacket. However, the article suggests that casual dresses or rip-free denim jeans with a nice top are more commonly accepted. Footwear ranges from boots and heels to sneakers, although extremely oversized or hole-ridden clothing is generally frowned upon.
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Clubs/High-End Outings: The dress code becomes stricter for clubs and high-end outings. Jeans, except for dark or black-wash, are advised against. The recommended attire includes a skirt, tights, and a nice blouse, paired with either boots or heels. In case of uncertainty, the article suggests opting for semi-formal attire, such as a dress or skirt with tights or slacks.
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Calling Ahead for Dress Code Clarification: The article wisely recommends calling the venue beforehand in case of dress code confusion. This proactive approach is especially important for clubs and upscale establishments, where a more formal dress code is typically enforced. Being prepared can save you from potential embarrassment or denial of entry.
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Cultural Sensitivity: The underlying theme in the article is cultural sensitivity. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting local norms, as Parisians may have unspoken dress codes that differ from one setting to another. This aligns with the broader concept of cultural immersion, where adapting to local customs enhances the overall study abroad experience.
In conclusion, packing for a study abroad experience in Paris involves more than just clothes; it requires a nuanced understanding of the local culture, especially in terms of fashion and social norms. By heeding the advice in this article, students can ensure that they make a positive impression and seamlessly integrate into the vibrant Parisian lifestyle.
