There’s something in the French Riviera that speaks glamour, even before your plane lands in Nice. If you’re off to this sun-kissed section of Mediterranean coast, you’re not just bringing clothes, you’re creating moments. And to actually pull off that carefree je ne sais quoi, you must become a master of French Riviera style.

Whether you’re bound for the sun-kissed shores of Cannes or a random yacht invitation off the coast of Saint-Tropez (it will go down), one thing’s certain: your closet must whisper, “old money” with a dash of “Instagram-famous.” So, what does dressing “jet-set chic” even mean? Think luxurious, yet breezy.

Think expensive, without looking like you tried too hard. You’re sipping rosé at Club 55 one minute and strolling through a cobblestone village in espadrilles the next. Let’s unpack your perfect Riviera suitcase.

1. The Perfect flowy silk dress

Forget tight bodycons, on the Riviera, daytime is all about ease and elegance. A flowing silk dress from Chloé or Zimmermann in pastel tones or nautical stripes? Perfect. It flows with the sea breeze and photographs like a dream. Picture yourself perched on a terrace in Èze, Aperol Spritz in hand, gold hoops glinting in the sun.

That’s peak French Riviera style. Want to go even chicer? Pair your dress with strappy Hermès sandals and a basket bag from Jacquemus. Add oversized Celine sunglasses, and boom; you have gone full jet-set goddess.

2. Swimwear that deserves its own pap moment 

By noon, you’re reclining on a lounger in Pampelonne Beach, somewhere between reading Colette and pretending not to notice Leonardo DiCaprio two cabanas over. Your swimwear? Not just functional it should be fabulous. A belted Chanel one-piece in cream with vintage tortoiseshell buttons. Oh, and your accessories?

A silk Hermès scarf tied around your ponytail, gold bangles, and a raffia Saint Laurent tote filled with SPF 50, Dior lip oil, and maybe a little rosé in a water bottle (because hydration is chic too). 

3. Linen is your best friend 

A piece of fabric that is the heartbeat of French Riviera style? That’s right. Linen can truly turn out to be your best friend. White, beige, pale blue, these are your go-to hues. Style a pair of cream linen trousers from The Row with a tucked-in silk tank from Saint Laurent, and you’ve nailed that yacht-ready look.

4. Evenings? The perfect slip dress 

Riviera evenings are a masterclass in understated drama. The colours transition, the light becomes softer, and your look has its time. This is where you play movie star. A slinky Galvan slip dress or off-the-shoulder Alexandre Vauthier is the perfect combination of allure and sophistication. A bold lip shade, some dramatic jewellery, and you’re ready for dinner.

Take a page from renowned celebrities such as Zendaya who are absolutely on point with their night glam looks. They remind us that French Riviera fashion doesn’t scream, it smolders.

5. Accessories-where the real magic happens 

Your wardrobe might be stunning, but it’s the accessories that tell the story. A vintage Chanel flap bag? Timeless. A silk Hermès scarf that doubles as a headband by day and a belt by night? Genius. Delicate gold jewellery layered just so it gives you that “I woke up this perfect” edge look.

And let’s not forget the finishing touches: A whisper of Neroli Portofino from Tom Ford, a swipe of tinted lip balm, and your phone on camera mode because every corner here deserves to be remembered (and posted). 

Packing for the French Riviera is not just about outfits; it’s about crafting a vibe. It’s about walking into a sunlit border of a film you’ve always wished to be the star of. Whether it’s yachting along Villefranche coast or stopping for espresso in a drowsy Provencal square, let French Riviera chic guide you.

It’s not about owning the costliest pieces, it’s about how to dress them as if you were meant to be there. So, zip that bag up, slide on those designer sunglasses, and get ready to serve looks as shiny as the Côte d’Azur itself. Now go forth and serve Mediterranean magnificence. The Riviera and your camera roll, await.