Going to the french Riviera this summer? Here is what to pack on your trip and lots of French riviera style outfit ideas.
The French Riviera conjures images of sun-drenched beaches, glamorous yachts, and effortless yet chic style. Capturing that Riviera essence is easier than you think with a well-curated capsule wardrobe. Here’s your guide to building a versatile collection that lets you navigate the French Riviera in style, from breezy cafes to elegant evenings.
What is a Capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of versatile pieces that you can mix and match to create multiple outfits, saving you space and indecision!
The growing interest is capsule wardrobe is undeniable. Capsule wardrobes emphasize investing in quality over quantity.
With fewer quality clothes to choose from, you’ll spend less time rifling through your closet and more time doing the things you love.
French Riviera Style Checklist
- Breezy dress – Mini dress, Maxi dress
- Oversized Linen Shirt
- White Ecru trousers
- Black A-Line Midi Skirt, Beige Wrap skirt
- Striped Cotton Top
- Tailored shorts
- Dressy tops
- Heavy weight Tshirts
- (Optional) light Cardigan
Adding the Finishing Touches:
- Straw Tote Bag
- Leather Sandals
- Statement Sunglasses
- Silk Scarf
- Gold Jewellery
FRENCH RIVIERA STYLE CAPSULE WARDROBE
Dresses
The French Riviera is all about effortless elegance. A breezy mini dress and a breezy maxi dress allows you to stay cool and look put-together in the warm climate, perfect for strolling through charming towns or enjoying a leisurely lunch by the sea.
The dresses in this capsule can be dressed up or down with accessories. For styling, I would throw on sandals for a casual daytime look, or add statement earrings and heels for a chic evening outfit.
Tops
Linen Shirts
Linen is a dream fabric for the Riviera. It’s lightweight, breathable, and keeps you cool in the sun. The oversized fit offers a relaxed yet stylish silhouette.
This shirt can be worn on its own or layered over a tank top or swimsuit for a versatile beach cover-up. Tie the ends at the waist for a more defined look.
Striped Cotton Top
Want a casual chic outfit? Stripes are a signature element of French Riviera style, injecting a touch of nautical flair into your outfit. A striped cotton top offers a casual yet chic vibe, perfect for exploring charming towns or enjoying a light lunch by the waterfront. This top can be worn on its own or layered under a blazer for added warmth in the evenings.
Dressy Tops
Having a few dressy tops ensures you’re prepared for unexpected invitations or a special dinner reservation. The Dressy tops in this capsule pair beautifully with tailored shorts, skirts or trousers for a chic and put-together look.
Heavy-Weight T-Shirts
The Riviera can have cooler evenings, especially near the water. A heavier weight t-shirt provides extra warmth and a more polished look compared to a thin tee.
Bottoms
White, Ecru Trousers
White or ecru trousers create a clean and sophisticated base for various outfits. They pair well with all the other pieces in your capsule wardrobe. Similar to linen, white ecru trousers are lightweight and breathable, perfect for hot summer days.
Black A-Line Midi Skirt
A black A-line midi skirt is a classic piece that exudes timeless elegance. It flatters most body types and offers a sophisticated foundation for various outfits.
This skirt can be dressed up with the silk blouse and heels for a special occasion or dressed down with a striped top and sandals for a relaxed day look. The black color makes it a versatile piece that transitions well from day to night.
Tailored Shorts
Tailored shorts offer a polished alternative to denim shorts, and are perfect for sightseeing, enjoying outdoor cafes, or attending a casual dinner.
Accessories
Leather Sandals
If you plan to explore the Riviera’s charming beaches, leather sandals offer a more sophisticated alternative to flip-flops while remaining comfortable. These sandals pair well with everything from tailored shorts and dresses to skirts making them a worthwhile investment for your capsule wardrobe.
Straw Bag
The perfect coastal accessories. Large enough to carry everything and chic enough to look the part on the Riviera.
(Optional) Light Cardigan
A light cardigan is perfect for cooler evenings or breezy days. Put it over your shoulder to a touch of polish to your outfit when you want to explore upscale boutiques or outdoor dinners.
THE LOOKS
French Riveria style Packing tips
Pack for the Climate: Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk.
Prioritize Versatility: Choose pieces that can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Look for items that work well together and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Pack a few statement pieces like a silk scarf or a bold necklace to add personality to your looks.
Embrace Effortless Elegance: Focus on comfortable pieces with clean lines and relaxed silhouettes. Avoid overly trendy pieces and opt for timeless staples that will endure beyond the season.
Footwear Matters: Pack comfortable and stylish footwear. Leather sandals are a great choice for their versatility and sophistication. Pack a pair of classic white sneakers for exploring towns or adding a sporty touch to your look. Consider bringing a pair of espadrilles with wedges for a touch of height and Riviera flair.
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