Cecile Perrinet — featured in the July/August 2026 issue
We’ve been told that the French know something we don’t: that they’re able to harness a sense of elegance while evading the discomfort of a heatwave without so much as a hair out of place.
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They have special creams, recipes, and astuces (tricks) for remaining chic no matter the occasion — and this narrative isn’t entirely false.
When the French, or more specifically Parisians, remain in the city for a wave of tricky weather, they prepare to make the indoors a relaxing oasis until the evening breaks and apéro can be enjoyed on the terrace once more.
Sparkling Water & Lemon
The French love bubbles — Champagne, but also Perrier.
Sparkling water with lemon is the unsung hero of the canicule (heatwave), serving up electrolytes and an easy way to stay hydrated.
L’eau pétillante (sparkling water) has run through the natural springs of France for a millennia, refreshing the population for generations. It’s said that Hannibal stopped in Vergèze and drank from the source which would later become Perrier water, on his way to Rome.
Today, the French keep liters of sparkling water at home or step out to drink a crisp glass with a slice of lemon at the café in the afternoon.
Cultivating a Fresh Ambiance
To avoid any unnecessary heat, candles are traded for their likeness in room sprays and diffusers.
Parisians specifically don’t wait to use Trudon or Diptique scents for special occasions. The desire for a tangibly more comfortable and serene space under the heat is the perfect occasion to use “the good stuff.”
Light Stretching & Early Morning Pilates
Before the heat creeps through the cracks of the windows, Parisians open their homes for fresh air. If they don’t make it to the gym, they opt for light stretching, pilates, and cardio at home.
This reduces swelling as temperatures rise in the late mornings and afternoons, while revitalizing the mind and body. Perhaps more importantly, the practice provides structure to days which can otherwise feel unorganized.
Getting Dressed for Nowhere
Just as special scents should be used for the sake of making a space feel a touch more luxurious, so should beautiful flowing dresses.
Contrary to popular belief, the French, and Parisians, aren’t exclusively drawn to neutral colors. Black, beige, and navy are nice, but don’t reflect the way Paris blooms in the summer. Parisians in particular invite playful cuts, colors, and prints on vacation and during the hottest days of the year.
To wear these dresses, for ourselves, sets the tone for a day spent indoors, making a celebration out of staying comfortable and cool.
Ice Cream
The Parisian palette isn’t particularly known for a love of sweet treats – but at height of a heatwave, we can count on the French to have a stash of ice cream bars nearby.
Little iceboxes pop up outside of épiceries around Paris in lieu of ice cream trucks. Inside is an array of mini cups and cones – but perhaps those which take the most real estate are Magnum ice cream bars.
While the French have an affinity for all which is made in France, they throw their hands up in defeat for ice cream perfected by Germany. This summertime staple is more often than not, a sugary indulgence the French have succumbed to enjoying any time the temperatures get too high.
Our personal favorites are the pistachio or dark chocolate almond bars.
The Art of the Fan
France is an old country. With that comes old infrastructure and a stubborn stance against air conditioning — but also an investment in chic alternatives for staying cool.
In the wake of a heatwave, French women carry handheld fans with them everywhere. This serves as an eco-conscious alternative to climatisation (air conditioning).
At home, Parisian women sit beside their fan of choice — usually an oblong Dyson. A multi functional go-to for Parisians, especially for its capacity to bring cool or warm air to the space, the Dyson fans are compact and a beautiful addition to the home.
Public Air Conditioning & Cool Spaces
French heatwaves are the perfect excuse to do nothing in particular, but when the novelty of doing nothing wears off, it’s time to venture out.
When the temperatures are at an all time high, Parisians hurry to the nearest library, museum, film festival, or swimming pool. Entertainment is chosen strategically, as not all addresses are fitted with air conditioning. That said, places without air conditioning may be less occupied, allowing for a relaxed and unhurried experience when visiting.
Written by Jessy Brewer
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