When the heat turns up to about 90 degrees in a city where swimming areas are scarce and trekking a daily necessity, you learn the importance of comfort. For me, this was not without another shopping excursion. Sure, I packed for summer and sure– I had a pair of shorts, a swim cover up, and a black dress. But none of these were quite as useful as I hoped. Jean shorts are too casual, the swim cover up is quite out of place in a city with no beaches, and the black dress is, well… redeemable.
But I ventured out to find some new necessities that it’s obvious are tried and true in Paris this season. Sorry again to say I found myself in H&M but only along with Pull & Bear of Galicia, and Go Sport, headquartered in France.
Denim Dress (25€ from H&M) : Blouse, dress… it’s the same thing. This dress, I’d argue, would be flattering on anyone, is comfortable, and the quickest thing to get ready for a day at school, a picnic, sightseeing, or dinner with friends.
Floral Jumper (15€ from Pull & Bear) : I learned this store attracts teenagers when Vine celebrity Cameron Dallas was scheduled for an appearance and the line was out the door. But when I found this inexpensive jumper, I found the store equally filled with people twice my age. Comfortable, sexy, and most importantly, keeps me cool.
Olive Shorts (10€ from H&M) : Basic, cheap, and comfortable. Also short enough to give your legs a little extra sun.
Towel (7€ from Go Sport) : Super compact, lightweight and absorbent travel towel. Having something just big enough to lie down on is absolutely essential for the summer. After all, how else could I spend my time writing in every park I visit?
Chico Bag : Ok, this one’s not new. But having a pocket-sized shopping bag is key. Even as someone who carries a large purse or backpack every day, you never know when you’ll find something you just can’t live without, or need to go grocery shopping without climbing your six flights of stairs in the heat just for the bag. And you never know when a picnic will pop up out of nowhere that necessitates space for the extra wine and cheese.
So there you have it. Everything you need for summer in Paris. Except, of course, the wine, cheese, beer, bread, friends, sun, and water. Oh, if only there were water! Waiting patiently for the sure-to-disappoint Paris Plages.