I heard that in Paris, it is generally better to dress nice casual as opposed to normal tourist-type clothes. Also, what is the weather like? And, what does one wear to most restaurants excluding the fancy ones?

We were in Paris at the end of September last year. The weather was splendid. Still nice enough to sit in outdoor cafes and enjoy open air boat rides. Would recommend packing light layers and taking a raincoat. Every morning, we would get dressed, then add a sweater and raincoat. We were constantly adding and removing all day long. The morning weather forecast is rather useless as you can experience three seasons within a matter of hours. A raincoat with a hood eliminates the need for an umbrella, and even if it doesn't rain (there was very little while we were there), it's a perfect extra layer and goes nicely over a dress or skirt. The pockets are very handy also. As for appropriate attire: At the major tourist attractions during the day, just about anything goes (as you will see). Even so, it is best to leave your shorts, athletic attire (except your walking shoes), tee shirts with transfers, and resort wear at home. Sneakers are fine during the day (and you will want to have the most comfortable footwear possible, as you'll probably walk more than you can possibly imagine). But, change to regular shoes (but comfortable) in the evening. In the very fanciest and priciest restaurants, a jacket and tie and very nice dress are most appropriate. In general, appropriate dress is whatever you would wear to a similar establishment in a city stateside. If you want to "blend", Parisian women wear a LOT of black. So, if you take a black skirt, black dress, black tailored slacks plus jackets, sweaters and tops in colors, then add a nice piece of jewelry, high quality belt, and scarf (yes, they still dress this way), you'll be tres chic.
There's a terrific book called "French Chic" which is out of print now by may be available at your local library. A lot of folks are convinced that it's fine to dress however you please - you're on vacation, after all. But, how you present yourself (not to be confused with dressing to impress) makes a significant difference in how you are received.

Jennifer...they say the latest fashions this time of year in Paris is to go either Chanel all the way or BUT NAKED. We prefer of course you go the CHANEL route. However, we saw how much material the CHANEL bathing suite did not have, therefor there is no difference.

OF course Russell would prefer you wear La Perla while smoking a large cigar. Wear whatever the hell you want to wear and stop worrying. Ragardless of what you wear, you'll still look like a tourist with your camera around your neck. WHatever you do, make sure Rus does not wear shorts with black socks and white sneakers, a major fashion faux pas.

We hope this advise is useful in planning your trip. For further information please call your friends...they are more than willing to accomodate.

Signed...

your friends, Moe, Curly and Larry.

We just got back from Paris last Wed. It was hot, hot and hot. If you are going in early Sept., bring shorts. Paris was loaded with tourists from everywhere and they all were dressed in a myriad of variety. We didn't care if we looked like tourists (I mean, we were.) Only my 15 year old daughter was vain enough to care. We carried bottles of Evian and wore comfortable shoes. Paris has cobblestones, be shod in sneakers or walking shoes. We did not go to any real fancy restaurants (too expensive with two kids along.) But we went to a terrific Italian restaurant called Fellini's (not far from the Louvre) and half of us were in shorts. Don't worry about fashion. Take lots of film and enjoy! I have shots of my kids in front of the Louvre, on the Eiffel tower, in the Catacombs- you get the idea. By the way, my most valued possession on this trip was my battery powered fan.

I'd echo Donna's post - I was in Barcelona earlier this summer and could spot the American tourists - particularly the college-age ones - a mile away. They were the ONLY ones wearing shorts, athletic garb, sleeveless T-shirts/tanks, etc. No wonder we Americans have the reputation we do. Even though one is on vacation, I believe it's still appropriate to respect one's surroundings by one's dress (or sport jacket & tie...whatever). Hey - it's Paris. Dress up (but wear the comfortable shoes so you can survive). so THERE.

I´m planning my trip to Paris for September also and I´m looking for a roommate because I want to share expenses with someone.
I have the name of three places where to stay but all rooms are double, so if interested let me know