The South of France, with its Mediterranean waves, beachside cafes, and seemingly carefree approach to fashion, is a dream destination.
Looking at French ladies, or French men for that matter, long enough, you might get the impression that they’re straight out of a fashion spread. Here are a few tried-and-true staples that will have you looking effortlessly gorgeous in the South while vacationing.
What kind of fashion is associated with the French Riviera?
The affluent and famous flock to the French Riviera; here, the unofficial dress code is a cross between nautical and Parisian chic. The French Riviera has a special kind of laid-back glamour that can’t be found anyplace else. The first people to wear this classic style about a century ago were wealthy tourists traveling the south of France.
The fashion in the French Riviera has been remarkably consistent over the years. The unsaid dress code is the Breton stripes, cropped pants, basket purses, and straw boaters made famous by none other thanb the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Brigitte Bardot.
Suppose you’re going to the Côte d’Azur this year or want to recreate the chic style of the French Riviera in your own house. Scroll down to see the six essential pieces that every French Riviera fashionista needs this summer.
Must-Have Wardrobe Pieces
1. Anything white
White is the unofficial color of the French Riviera. It will not only look fabulous with your new Mediterranean tan, but it also reflects the sun, keeping you cooler than darker colors would. If you’re going to vacation there, bring some white items, from a flowy day dress to a more formal evening blouse and shorts.
Afterall, you want to look your most fashionable while sitting at that coffee shop mysteriously playing on your fav mobile casino.
2. Breton stripe shirt
Traditional Breton stripes are instantly recognizable as a symbol of the French Riviera.
As part of her 1917 nautical collection, Coco Chanel created the marinière and instantly established it as a symbol of French haute couture. Breton striped shirts are now an essential part of any French girl’s summer outfit. It’s a chicer pick for casual outings in the city.
Saint James, a French clothing label, is a good option if you’re seeking genuine French-made Breton shirts.
3. Flowy dresses
When visiting the South of France in the summer, light, airy clothing, such as dresses with a loose, flowing silhouette, is recommended. Linen, cotton, and lightweight silk are all good options for keeping cool. Embrace the glamour of St. Tropez by donning bright, bold patterns and hues you wouldn’t typically see in Provence or Paris.
Dresses are easy to pack because they are light and can work for almost any event. Dresses are versatile; wear them with basic sandals while out and about. Switch to heels or espadrilles for an evening out.
A printed skirt and top combo is another option for getting more wear out of your wardrobe staples. They function as a dress when worn together, and you can also wear them separately.
4. One-piece swimsuit
If you’re going on a trip to the French Riviera, there’s only one item of swimwear you need to bring: a one-piece. One-piece swimsuits are a timeless summer staple and a classic French swimwear style. This retro-chic swimwear cut is universally flattering, working equally well on bustier women and those with smaller chests, and its design never goes out of style.
Remember to bring some cute coverups, too; you never know when you might want to have a picnic on the beach or stroll along the water. The transition from bedroom to pool could not be easier in a lovely linen sundress or shirt dress.
5. Espadrilles and sandals
Women on the French Riviera often wore espadrilles as an alternative to sandals. Daytime espadrilles can be flat, but evening wine tasting and dinner call for a heeled pair. Espadrilles are a comfortable footwear option for strolling the cobblestone streets of the cities in the South of France.
If you’re in the market for a pair of traditional wedge espadrilles, go no further than a pair made by Castaner. Another great brand for flat espadrilles is Soludos. They have many fabric alternatives in a rainbow of colors and motifs.
Cobblestone streets are abundant in the South of France, so wear flat sandals.
Make a point of visiting a St. Tropez boutique for the stunning handmade sandals still manufactured in the region. You could also go shopping online, where you’ll find different styles of sandals on any budget. Still, the boutiques provide a considerably broad selection of sandals and even allow for personalization.
Choose a shoe with a block heel if you want to make a statement. A little elevation will instantly make you feel more put together, plus there’s no way your heel could get stuck in the cracks in the sidewalk.
6. Straw hat
Any straw hat, such as a wide-brimmed hat, a boater hat, a fedora, or a Panama, is an essential accessory. It’s the ideal sun protection garb for wearing around town or on the beach.
You’ll appear like you hopped off a yacht in the St. Tropez marina.
When you travel to the South of France, consider carrying a variety of styles with you. This list should make it easier to pack for your next international vacation.
