I've been reading various posts - some quite old - about dressing, packing, shoes, day trips, etc. for Paris. We'll be going in August.

I'm curious what you think about -

Clothing and Shoes:
I've been reading that it is quite hot there this summer. I'm looking to see what others find comfortable to wear in the heat - I usually wear only slacks. Are there any fabrics you find comfortable in the heat? Traveling before I've worn the "travel" clothes, but they can be hot and sticky. What type of shoes do you wear? Sandals or walking shoes? Type of sock?

Packing:
I'm looking to use a 22 in. suitcase. Any practical packing tips for going in August? How many of each do you bring?

Day trips:
What have you found to be a great day trip. We're planning to go to Monet's Garden. My daughter (20) is interested in also going to Brussels (actually Brugge) for a day. Should we try to fit that in or save it for another trip since we'll only be in Paris for 9 days with the definite trip to Monet's Garden planned.

Thanks -

I just wear cotton when it's really hot here (Spain) and also when travelling.
I cannot help you more because I've never been in Paris !

Have a nice trip !

To_Paris, first off I'm assuming you are female? Anyway...

Lightweight rayon, cotton, linen, or silk for pants. Prints show less dirt than solids. Lightweight colored cotton tshirts (tank, sleeveless, & short sleeeve) and sleeveless cotton blouses work nicely.

I prefer a 'palazzo' style instead of fitted slacks when it's hot. Capri length are another good option. Yes, I take 2 pair of comfortable walking sandals, and a couple pair of thin colored ankle socks to wear in case they start to rub. Also sneakers or regular walking shoes with terrycloth peds.

For a 22" suitcase you can fit:
2 pair capri
2 pair slacks
1 pair long shorts or skirt
7 assorted tops
1 lightweight knit cardigan
1 robe or sleepwear
2 sandals
1 shoes/sneakers
assorted bras, undies, socks

(Note: Some of these will be on your body, not in the suitcase, at any given time.)

Downsize all cosmetics and toiletries to the smallest amount that will last for your trip. Pack into zip lock bags. Keep gadgets to the minimum (tiny flashlight, disposable camera, etc.).

Voila!

I liked some of the clothes from Chicos for hot travel. They have some really light weight cottons that are really nice. If you don't have one in your town, they have a web site. Not cheap though! We just got back from Paris and there were a lot of skirts, no stockings (obviously), and sandals. Of course, more mature women were wearing pants. Lots of capris too. I bought some light weight travel pants from EMS that could be snapped up to capris. They were great. They were easy to wash and dried quickly. Also took up very little space in suitcase. I broght a 22" and had plenty of stuff (with laundry occassionally). Don't forget sun screen!

To Brussels from Paris, you can hop on the Thalys from the Gare du Nord and it will take you about 1 hour to reach Brussels. From, Brussels to Brugge (Bruges), you will have to change either in Lille or Brussels (1 hour from both). I don't think it would be possible to visit Brugge as a day trip, unless you leave very early in the morning, and take the last train back. Brussels is possible.

.. Check weatherunderground for historical temps. August is hot and sticky. I wear cotton. Don't bring blue jeans-too warm but light weight slacks or light cotton jeans are fine- I would bring either 1 pair light weight casual pants and 1 casual skirt, 1 pair orf paints that I could "dress up" or down in (or substitute a skirt if you are that type of person).. in addition to what you wear over. Keep to one neutral color pallette and mix and match. I am not a sandle person so I would bring 1 low pair of heels (1 1/2 in) which I use for walking, apair of good flats for walking, and another pair for evening. Tops must mix and match. Dont forget a sweater as occ can be a cool evening. Dont buy a lot of new stuff..take things you are comfortable in and with. re Brugges-not a 1 day trip though I think Paris Vision has a 1 day bus tour.