First visit

Ooh, you're going to have so much fun! I've been there four times (my sister lives there, although she's moving to Holland in a month).

Although Paris is a very fashionable city, nobody looks like they're trying too hard. The most chic women I saw all looked pretty effortless: nice jeans, nice boots, a cute jacket, a hot bag, a scarf, and sunglasses. My advice is just don't try too hard!

And wear comfortable shoes. You'll probably do a lot of walking and some of the sidewalks are literally made of cobblestones that are hundreds of years old. You don't want to hobble over them in stilettos.

Your comment about shoes is right on... I went to Paris last March and had bought a few pairs of cute new shoes for the trip...I suffered for half a week before buying a new pair of shoes for the rest of the trip. When I returned to Paris this last summer I bought only things I could walk for hours in. Paris is really a walking city. Hope you enjoy your trip!

Whiplashgirlchild and afgirl907 made apt comments about dressing chic in Paris. I just returned from Paris a couple of days ago and found that taking one cashmere sweater and one light weight black turtleneck, one pair of great jeans, one pair of dressy pants, one hip dress, and one black skirt was perfect. Add a gorgeous scarf, a beautiful bag, great sunglasses and you will not look like a bumbling American. And shoes are the most important style and comfort factor that you need to consider.

I noticed that many chic Parisianne women were sporting low-heeled riding boots. Take boots that you can walk in for 9-10 hours a day, because you will walk that much. I also took a pair of merrell maryjanes that were super squishy in the heel and saved my feet. My shoes were also able to accommodate "smartfeet" inserts that give your feet extra support (a lifesaver for tackling cobblestones).

Add to your travel wardrobe, a good trench. I wore mine everyday and Paris tends to be a tad rainy, so pack a small umbrella too. Also, two long-sleeved t-shirts that you can layer are essential. You can wash and hang things in your room to dry overnight and don't hesitate to use your hotel's laundry service.

Paris women dress effortlessly and stylishly and it is not always about "labels" but about splashes of color.

I know you will enjoy your travels and don't hesitate to ask anymore questions!!!!

Maisiegirl that is some great advice.