What To Wear In The South Of France In Summer
What To Wear In The South Of France In Summer
Heading to the Provence this summer? Make sure you’re dressed to impress with these summer chic fashion tips. From flowy sundresses to stylish swimsuits and oversized sunglasses, we’ve got you covered for a glamorous vacation with this French Riviera and Provence Style Guide.
The Effortless Style Of The South Of France
The effortless style of the South of France blends relaxed elegance with sun-kissed charm. It’s where you’ll find linen shirts, flowing dresses, and espadrilles easily worn.
The style is about simplicity, natural beauty, and understated yet undeniably chic attire. This aesthetic celebrates a slower pace of life, where looking good never feels like trying too hard.
What Does The South Of France Include
The South of France includes major regions such as Provence and the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur). Most often, people refer to visiting glamorous places such as Saint-Tropez, Nice, and Cannes along the French Riviera.
In Provence, people often visit Aix-en-Provence, Gordes, or Avignon, which includes hundreds more towns and villages.
What Is The Weather In The South Of France
Between June and August, the South of France enjoys warm, sunny weather with plenty of clear blue skies. Daytime temperatures typically range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), especially along the Mediterranean coast.
Rain is rare during these months, and the heat is often tempered by a light sea breeze. It’s the perfect climate for outdoor dining, beach days, and exploring charming villages in the golden sunlight.
Must Have Items For A Summer In The South Of France
For a summer in the South of France, lightweight linen pieces are key. Think button-down shirts and wide-leg trousers, essential for staying cool and stylish. A breezy sundress, preferably in neutral or pastel tones, pairs perfectly with classic espadrilles or strappy leather sandals.
Don’t forget oversized sunglasses, a woven straw tote, and a chic sun hat to complete the look. These timeless staples blend comfort and elegance, ideal for beachside strolls or exploring the French countryside.
Of course, don’t forget a striped tee, which is always part of a French Riviera Style Guide. Wear it with a pair of linen pants or tailored shorts. Feel free to pack a pair of jeans, but stick with something in a lighter wash such as ecru, white, or even a light blue.
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Flowy Sundresses To Wear In The South Of France
Wearing a flowy simple white dress in the South of France captures the essence of effortless sophistication. Whether crafted from breathable linen or soft cotton, it’s the perfect choice for staying cool while looking elegant under the summer sun.
Go with either a maxi dress or a midi dress in whichever silhouette suits you best. And if you aren’t a dress person, you could even wear a midi skirt.
Pair it with a chic French market bag and classic espadrilles or strappy sandals for a timeless look. Ideal for exploring coastal towns or strolling the cobblestone streets of a Provençal village, the white dress is a summer staple that never goes out of style.
This season, I love the simplicity of a white dress, like this eyelet style from Sézane, a classic shirt dress from Frank & Eileen, or this scoop-neck dress from Quince, and this linen one from MERSEA.
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Strappy Sandals To Wear In Provence
Strappy sandals are a summer essential in the South of France, effortlessly pairing with everything from breezy dresses to linen pants and tailored shorts. They add a touch of elegance while keeping your look relaxed and vacation-ready.
The Hermès Oran sandal is a popular choice on the chic French Riviera, known for its minimalist design and timeless appeal. Another style French women wear is K Jacques St Tropez sandals.
However, if you’re exploring cobblestone streets in quaint villages, opt for a pair with cushioned soles or a low block heel to stay comfortable without sacrificing style.
Sneakers are also a smart option to pack, especially for days when you might be climbing to visit a castle or up a hill. Stick with something supportive and comfortable.
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Statement Accessories To Pack For France
Statement accessories are key to elevating your summer look in the South of France. Chic, oversized sunglasses not only offer sun protection but instantly add glamour to any outfit.
A lightweight, breathable straw hat is both practical and stylish, perfect for sunny days along the coast or in Provence.
Complete your look with raffia accessories, like a woven tote or sandals, and simple, elegant jewelry for an effortlessly polished finish.
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Shorts To Wear In The South Of France
When packing for the South of France, don’t hesitate to include a few stylish pairs of shorts; locals here embrace them, unlike the more formal dress norms of Paris. Opt for tailored linen shorts from J.Crew or this sleek pair from Banana Republic for a polished, breathable look.
If you prefer denim shorts, choose a longer, clean-cut style without distressing; J.Crew and AGOLDE both offer ideal options. The key is to keep it refined yet relaxed, matching the Riviera’s effortless elegance.
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Stylish Swimsuits To Pack
When packing for the Côte d’Azur and Provence, stylish and well-fitting swimsuits are a must. A classic one-piece swimsuit is a flattering option for all body types, offering both support and sophistication while lounging by the sea or taking a dip in the pool.
For added ease and elegance, be sure to bring a breezy beach cover-up—perfect for transitioning from the sand to a seaside café or resort pool.
Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or gauze that dry quickly and keep you cool. With the right swimwear and cover-up, you’ll feel effortlessly chic wherever the sun takes you.
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Light Layers For Cooler Evenings
Evenings in the South of France can bring a light breeze, making airy layers a smart addition to your summer wardrobe. A pair of linen trousers paired with a light sweater or jacket is the perfect combination of comfort and effortless elegance.
These pieces keep you warm without feeling heavy, ideal for sunset dinners or evening strolls along the coast. Opt for neutral tones or soft pastels to stay in tune with the region’s relaxed, refined aesthetic.
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Linen Vest | Silk Tank | Tank Top | Stripe Swimsuit | Navy Swimsuit | Linen Pants | Linen Shorts | Dress | Maxi Dress | Cover Up | Button Up | Silk Skirt | Linen Pants | Necklace | Wicker Clutch | Brown Sandals | Earrings | Espadrilles | Basket Bag | Sunglasses | Sandals
Dressing For Different Occasions
Here are several examples of outfit inspiration for all the different activities. An outfit for exploring the city, a day at the beach, an evening out, and more.
Outfit For Exploring The City
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Dressing For A Morning Wandering The Market
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Outfit For A Day At The Beach Followed By Lunch
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Dressing For A Shopping Day In The South Of France
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Dressing For An Evening Out In The South Of France
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Here’s a suggestion of items to pack for the South of France
Clothing (Mix & Match Essentials)
- 2–3 light sundresses (linen or cotton)
- 1 wrap dress or midi dress for dinners
- 2 pairs of shorts (linen, cotton, or tailored)
- 1 pair of white or neutral trousers
- 1 lightweight skirt (midi or maxi)
- 3–4 tops (mix of tanks, short sleeves, 1 long-sleeve)
- 1 lightweight sweater or cardigan
- 1 denim jacket or neutral blazer
- 1 swimsuit + 1 cover-up or sarong
- 1 pair of jeans (optional, for cooler evenings)
- 1 casual day-to-night jumpsuit or romper
Outerwear
- 1 light trench coat or packable rain jacket (if spring or early fall)
- Scarf or wrap (great for layering or beach evenings)
Shoes
- Comfortable walking sandals (leather or espadrilles)
- Stylish sneakers (for city exploring)
- Flat or low-block sandals (for dinners/nicer outings)
- Optional: lightweight flip-flops or slides for beach/pool
Accessories
- Straw hat or fedora (sun protection & style)
- Sunglasses
- Small crossbody bag or shoulder bag
- Foldable tote or beach bag
- Belt (if needed for styling)
Toiletries & Beauty
- Travel-size skincare (SPF essential!)
- Light makeup (tinted moisturizer, lip balm, mascara)
- Dry shampoo & mini hairbrush
- Razor, toothbrush, and other basics
- Meds & personal care items
Miscellaneous
- Travel adapter (Type C, E)
- Refillable water bottle
- Lightweight travel umbrella (if spring)
- Journal or book for café lounging
- Airy pajamas/loungewear
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Beautiful suggestions Noelani thank you! I bought the F & E linen shirt you suggested! My family for a time used to live outside Cahors and summers for me were wandering around the market town and Avignon and Toulouse, such heaven. My brother taught at the Sorbonne and lived in Rouen so many happy memories of France. I love your blog! Happy Summer!
Bonjour Francesca! Thank you so much for your kind words! What wonderful summers you had growing up, definitely happy memories!
So glad I can share a bit of France with you.
Happy Summer,
Noelani