Effortless Chic: Dressing for the French Riviera This Summer....
The French Riviera, with its sun-soaked beaches, luxurious yachts, and charming seaside towns, epitomizes elegance and effortless style. As a London-based personal stylist, I’m excited to share my top tips and ideas for dressing for the French Riviera this summer. Whether you’re strolling along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, dining in Cannes, or exploring the quaint streets of Saint-Tropez, these style tips will ensure you look chic and feel comfortable.
1. Embrace Light Fabrics and Breezy Silhouettes
The summer heat in the French Riviera calls for fabrics that are both breathable and stylish. Opt for natural materials like linen, cotton, and silk. These fabrics not only keep you cool but also exude an effortless elegance. Think loose-fitting linen trousers, airy cotton dresses, and silk blouses that gently caress the skin.
Styling Tip: Pair a white linen shirt with high-waisted shorts for a timeless look. Add a wide-brimmed straw hat and oversized sunglasses for a touch of Riviera glamour.
Above: Oversized linen shirt, COS £75
Above: Cheesecloth Gathered sleeve maxi dress £175 Me & EM
2. Play with Nautical Themes
Nautical stripes are a quintessential part of the Riviera style. Incorporate navy, white, and red into your wardrobe to capture that classic seaside vibe. A Breton stripe top is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down.
Styling Tip: Combine a navy and white striped top with tailored white trousers and espadrilles. Finish the look with a red lip for a pop of color.
Above: Aligne Dress £115
Above: Sezanne COLETTE MARINIÈRE breton top £75
Above: Breton stripe top, Me & EM £55
3. Accessorize with Elegance
Accessories can elevate your outfit and add a touch of sophistication. Consider straw hats, woven bags, and silk scarves to complement your summer wardrobe. A statement piece of jewelry, such as gold hoops or a delicate pendant necklace, can also add a refined touch.
Styling Tip: Tie a silk scarf around your neck or use it as a headband for an effortlessly chic look. A wicker bag is perfect for carrying your essentials while adding a rustic charm.
Above: Logo woven headband, Miu Miu £400
Above: La Mort Tarot 70 Square Scarf DIOR, £295
Above: Loewe Basket Bag in Palm leaf, £495
4. Opt for Pastel and Neutral Tones
Soft pastels and neutral tones are perfect for the serene and sunlit ambiance of the French Riviera. Shades of blush, mint, beige, and ivory blend seamlessly with the coastal scenery and exude a sense of calm sophistication.
Styling Tip: A pastel-colored sundress paired with nude sandals creates a harmonious and elegant ensemble. Add a lightweight cardigan for cooler evenings.
Above: Delilah Linen Dress, Reformation £298
Above: Blue linen flower pleated midi dress, Mint Velvet £189
Above: FLORERE Full Skirt Cotton Blend Dress, Lilac £198
5. Casual Elegance for Evening Soirées
Evening events in the French Riviera often call for casual elegance. Think of flowing maxi dresses, jumpsuits, and tailored separates that can transition from day to night effortlessly. Choose pieces that are comfortable yet polished.
Styling Tip: A flowy maxi dress in a bold color or floral print is perfect for an evening out. Pair it with strappy sandals and a clutch for a chic and comfortable look.
Above:Linen-Blend Crossover Maxi Dress , Me & EM £275
Above: Miu Miu embellished leather sandals - £920
Above: Maeve Strapless Corset Column Midi Dress, Anthropologie £148
6. Swimwear that Doubles as Outerwear
Swimwear in the French Riviera is not just for the beach; it often doubles as outerwear. Choose stylish swimsuits that can be paired with skirts or shorts for a quick transition from beach to bistro.
Styling Tip: A one-piece swimsuit with a deep V-neck can be paired with a high-waisted skirt and oversized sunglasses for a glamorous look that’s perfect for both lounging by the pool and enjoying a beachfront lunch.
Above: Nautical High Waist bikini , Anthropologie
Above: ERES Samba Chiquito lace-up striped swimsuit £805
Above: Freda striped cross-back swimsuit- REISS, £110
7. Comfortable and Chic Footwear
Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the cobblestone streets and beaches of the French Riviera. Choose stylish yet practical options like espadrilles, sandals, and chic sneakers.
Styling Tip: Espadrilles are a Riviera staple. Opt for a pair in a neutral shade that can be easily paired with different outfits, from dresses to trousers.
Above: CHANEL, Sandals- Lambskin & GrosgrainWhite & Black, Chanel - £1290
Above: AQUAZZURA , Sunburst raffia espadrille sandals £395
Above: CHANEL Espadrilles , £1030
Above: Prada Striped Espradilles, £620
Final Thoughts
The key to dressing for the French Riviera is to embody a sense of effortless chic. Choose pieces that are comfortable, stylish, and versatile. Remember, the goal is to look polished without appearing to have tried too hard. By following these tips and ideas, you'll be ready to soak up the sun and enjoy the luxurious lifestyle of the French Riviera with style and grace.
As a personal stylist based in London, I offer personalised styling sessions and wardrobe edits to help you achieve the perfect look for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a trip to the French Riviera or simply want to refresh your wardrobe, I’m here to help you look and feel your best. Contact me to book a session today, or head over to @styledbyhellana for more style tips.
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