Insider Picks
Packing Guide: Trouvaille x Winter in Paris
Taken from the French word for “a lucky find,” Trouvaille (pronounced “tro͞oˈvī”) is a lifestyle site that helps women easily find pieces at every price point along with advice on everything essential to living in style, including interiors, beauty and travel. So, we called on its founder, style expert Britt Barkwell, to share her tips on how to pack for a winter trip to Paris, arguably the world’s most stylish city.
Make a Statement
“Just because Paris winters are brisk doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. A statement coat is the easiest way to look polished while keeping warm. I always like to pack two coats so I can change up the look depending on the occasion. Faux fur is great for evenings and you can wear it on the plane to save space. Take it out for a night of vintage glamour at Girafe Restaurant inside Paris’ Cité de l’Architecture. Designed by French architect Joseph Dirand, the 1930s-inspired décor and views of the Eiffel Tower aren’t to be missed.”
Kiwi Collection tip:
Just a six-minute stroll away from Girafe is the equally historic Shangri-La Hotel, Paris—it was once home to Napoleon’s grandnephew. Visit Le Bar Botaniste for a nightcap and partake in an authentic absinthe ritual.
Be Practical
“Start your trip on the right foot with practical footwear that will allow you to see the sights in style. Opt for block heel options that are comfortable but still give you a lift, or utility boots with thicker soles that look equally good with pants or dresses. A great place for a winter stroll is Jardins des Tuileries, the largest park in Paris situated between the historic Champs-Elysées Avenue, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. When you need to warm up, plan a stop into The Musée de l’Orangerie and admire the works of Monet.”
Kiwi Collection tip:
Close to it all in the 1st arrondissement, Nolinski Paris makes a chic home base from which to start and end the day’s adventures.
Layer Up
“Another key to keeping cozy in Paris’ colder months is layering, and sweater season is anything but boring. Voluminous sleeves and cutout details will help you transition easily from day to night in style. A happy hour cocktail at Sinner Paris, a cool new hotel in Le Marais, also helps with the transition.”
Invest in accessories
“Accessories are another key ingredient to staving off the cold. Faux-fur scarves and embellished leather gloves are easy to pack, or, better yet, shop for them at one of the oldest department stores in Paris. Founded in 1838, Le Bon Marché is a must if you’re in the mood to splurge on an investment piece. Also, the light-filled atrium with crisscrossing escalators by designer Andrée Putman is a sight to see.
Face the Cold
“When temps dip, it’s important to change up your beauty routine—especially if you’re logging lots of hours outside on vacation. My go-to is a hydrating lipstick in a red hue for a quick way to dress up any look and prevent cracking. I also swear by Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Sun Drops. The sun is still powerful in the winter and these lightweight drops offer protection. If your skin begs for some extra TLC, spoil yourself with a visit to the Chanel au Ritz Paris spa. Coco Chanel called the Ritz Paris home from 1937 to 1971 and her essence permeates the place. ”
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Want more? Check out the Paris Destination Guide.