Your Ultimate Paris Packing List for Women over 40
What I Wore, What I Packed & The Lessons I Learned
There’s something about Paris that makes you want to show up as your most effortless self. Every corner is charming, every meal feels like a moment, and the women—oh, the women—remind you that confidence will always be the best accessory.
For my direct flight, I wanted to look pulled together but feel very comfortable and cozy, since sleep was at the top of my list. I always wear a combination of the outfits below. It is my tried-and-true travel uniform that has not failed me yet! I dress comfortably, wear a hat to hide bed head, and use my coat and scarf as sleeping accessories on the plane, along with my sleeping mask and noise-cancelling headphones.
COAT | TOP | BOTTOM | HAT |SCARF | PURSE | SHOES |SUITCASE
On my recent trip to Paris, I packed light but intentionally: timeless outfits I could mix and match, and a streamlined skincare and makeup routine that kept me glowing through long days of walking, wine, and late-night dinners. Below, I’m sharing my Paris packing list for women over 40, everything I wore and packed, and also what I’d absolutely bring again.
What I Wore in Paris
I focused on classic, comfortable pieces that felt chic without trying too hard. Think: elevated basics, button-ups, cashmere sweaters, and neutral tones that work for any occasion.
Sightseeing Days
Comfort was key, but I still wanted to feel pulled together. My go-to uniform was jeans, a tee and a sweater, and also my favorite brown coat or white puffer. I added ballet flats for shorter walks and sneakers for the longer ones.
COAT | SWEATER |BUTTON UP | JEANS | CROSSBODY | SNEAKERS | BRACELET |LIPPIE
PUFFER | WHITE TEE | SWEATER |SCARF | DENIM | PURSE | SNEAKERS | HOOPS
Evenings Out
Paris evenings call for casual elegance. I packed my faux leather pants ( faux leather is huge there right now), which worked with absolutely everything else I packed. I wore dressy boots or ballet flats, and also a few statement accessories to instantly elevate a look.
COAT | CARDIGAN | BUTTON UP | PURSE | DENIM | BOOTS | BRACELET | HOOPS | LIPPIE |
COAT | TEE | SWEATER | NECKLACE | SCARF | PANTS |SHOES | PURSE |BRACELET
The MVPs
A wool coat – timeless and practical.
Sneakers – because Paris is best explored on foot.
A crossbody bag – keeps your hands free for croissants and photos.
A scarf – adds polish and warmth (you’ll also fit right in with the locals).
Style Lesson: The best outfits are the ones you feel comfortable in. Paris reminded me that less truly is more.
My Skincare, Hair & Makeup Edit
MAKEUP BAG | MERIT SKINCARE TRAVEL SET | EXFOLIATING PADS | FRAGRANCE | MASK DUO | TRAVEL DEODORANT |BODY LOTION | DRY SHAMPOO |LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER | HEAT PROTECTANT | GLASS SKIN SPRAY |
I simplified my routine for travel—focusing on hydration, glow, and longevity. Long flights, late nights, and city air can do a number on your skin, so I made sure everything I brought pulled its weight. For hair products, I brought the absolute essentials to make my hair look decent.
Skincare Favorites
Hydrating cleanser – gentle and non-stripping.
Vitamin C serum – for bright, healthy skin in photos.
Moisturizer – something rich enough for dry airplane air but light enough under makeup.
SPF – always, even on cloudy Paris days.
Hair Essentials
Leave-in Conditioner – My one product to make my hair smooth and soft
Dry Shampoo – to go longer between washes
Heat Protectant – For drying and styling
Makeup Must-Haves
BAG | TINTED SPF | FOUNDATION STICK |RED LIPPIE | NEUTRAL LIPPIE |GLOSS | LIP LINER | CREAM SHADOW |BRONZER | EYE LINER |MASCARA | SHADOW POT | POWDER |
My Paris makeup mantra: fresh skin, flushed cheeks, and a great lip.
Tinted moisturizer and foundation stick – easy and quick to apply.
Cream blush – adds life back to travel-weary skin.
Brow gel + mascara – simple but makes all the difference.
Neutral cream eyeshadow – Easy Peasy look in one swipe.
Lipstick in a Neutral & Parisian red – because some clichés are worth keeping.
Beauty Lesson: When you feel good in your skin, you need less makeup—and somehow, everything looks better.
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Paris Packing List for Women over 40: Lessons Learned
After years of overpacking, this trip was a turning point.
Here’s what I learned:
1. Capsule packing really works when you stick to one color palette.
2. Travel-size skincare is your best friend (and your carry-on’s).
3. Choose pieces you can layer, not outfits that only work one way.
Final Thoughts
This trip reminded me of something I think we all forget sometimes: life doesn’t end when your kids are grown—it’s the beginning of a beautiful new chapter. Read my complete trip recap HERE! Traveling to Paris with that mindset made me appreciate every little thing, from morning cappuccinos to late-night walks along the Seine. Using my Paris packing list for women over 40 made packing light and stylish effortless.
So here’s to packing light, living beautifully, and embracing your own version of je ne sais quoi.
XO
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