Planning a trip to the South of France this summer? Or maybe you’re just trying to piece together some last-minute outfit ideas for your next Mediterranean mini break. Either way, if you’re stumped for packing inspiration, I’m here to help. I recently headed to the Côte d’Azur for a long-awaited holiday and returned to my favourite hotel (possibly in the world), Les Roches Rouges. And one thing’s for certain: I’d had time to put a lot of thought into my outfits.
Not that they ended up being particularly extravagant—I’m actually somewhat of a minimalist when it comes to holiday dressing and mostly eschew the usual printed dresses and bright colours that fit sun-drenched destinations for a more understated palette. Not only does this help keep my packing list down since everything usually goes together in a neat summer capsule, but it also means the pieces I do choose to invest in look just as classic year after year. Think a simple white dress, for example, or a black strappy swimsuit.
The good thing is this timeless aesthetic also works well when you’re trying to look your chicest on the Riviera. The French are well-known for their love of an elevated basic, after all, from basket bags to light linens, fresh stripes and crisp monochromatic colours. Keep scrolling, and you’ll see a lot of these things in my five most-worn holiday outfits. You probably even own a lot of the items already, and hopefully, the below can serve as helpful styling inspiration. If you are looking to update your holiday wardrobe, though, I’ve added links to some of my favourite summer pieces. Happy holidays!
1. White Maxi Dress + Slides + Mini Bag
Style Notes: You can wear a simple white dress when wandering around the town during the day and add a mini bag and some gold jewellery for sunset dinners.
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Whistles makes the prettiest summer dresses.
A statement gold chain will instantly dress up any outfit.
How cool is this?
Minimalists will love these.
2. Linen Shirt + Black Bikini + Straw Hat
Style Notes: I've never got on well with a kaftan. Instead, my pool and beach cover-up of choice is always a linen shirt. Tuck it into a simple pair of drawstring shorts when you head to lunch for a breezy but polished look.
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H&M's linen is unmatched.
Hunza G swimwear is universally flattering.
This reminds me of so many designer options.
3. Black Swimsuit + Midi Skirt + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Is there anything more timeless than a black swimsuit? I've had this one for years, and it's just as chic every summer. Plus, it's flattering. I dressed it up here with a pretty midi skirt when we went for a boat trip and long lunch.
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This is available in sizes 8-24 and also comes in two different body lengths.
This will pair equally as well with a t-shirt on non-beach days.
Jelly shoes are a huge trend for summer 2024.
Such a cool shape.
4. Black Linen Minidress + Basket + Slides
Style Notes: Black may not seem like the most summery colour, but that's exactly what makes it so unexpectedly chic. Opt for linen fabrics and shorter lengths to stay cool. This was the perfect outfit to head inland on market day.
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The perfect LBD.
My dream holiday tote.
I have these and they're so comfortable.
Tie this around your neck or bag this summer.
5. Pretty Top + Linen Shorts + Basket Bag
Style Notes: Linen shorts are my new go-to when I want something a bit more elevated than denim cut-offs. This backless halterneck top was ideal for the hottest day of the holiday, but it still felt dressy enough to wear to the hotel's restaurant at lunch.
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This can easily be taken from day to night.
I live in linen shorts throughout the warmer months.
The basket bag on every fashion-person's radar.
Stylish yet practical.
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