What to Pack for the French Riviera: 7 Outfit Ideas from a Simple Capsule
When it comes to the French Riviera, I like to keep things light, breezy, and refined, just like the region itself! Think linen, raffia accessories, and timeless silhouettes you can dress up or down! This capsule is built around natural tones, relaxed tailoring, and versatile pieces that transition effortlessly from a seaside lunch to sunset drinks with a view.
Rather than planning rigid outfits, this guide offers 7 (and you can even make more!) mix-and-match looks you can rotate through your stay, simple, elegant, and easy to personalize.
So, what’s the weather like on the French Riviera in summer?
Expect sunshine and warmth, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 75–85°F (24–29°C), some years you may have some heatwaves, so check the weather & pack accordingly! It usually cools off slightly in the evening, especially near the coast, so lightweight layers like linen shirts or longer skirts are perfect for evenings. Pack pieces that breathe well, photograph beautifully, and make you feel your best whether you're in Nice, Antibes, or wandering through the old town of Èze!
Outfit Ideas
Look 1: Market Mornings in Linen
This sleeveless linen dress pairs beautifully with strappy flats and a structured raffia bag, ideal for wandering through the local marché or enjoying a slow breakfast on a shaded terrace. Add round sunnies and gold jewelry for that quiet luxury touch.
Look 2: Stripes in the Sun
A navy marinière with crisp white shorts channels that quintessential French seaside charm. Add Veja sneakers, a raffia bucket hat, and pearl drop earrings to keep the look fresh, comfortable, and photo-ready, whether you're walking the Promenade des Anglais or sailing along the coast.
Look 3: Afternoon Art & Ice Cream
This brown linen top and white shorts combo is the definition of warm-weather sophistication. Styled with Veja sneakers, a wide raffia hat, and gold pearl earrings, it's ideal for exploring quiet towns like Menton or ducking into an art gallery in Nice.
Look 4: Coastal Café Chic
Pair a classic white linen shirt with tailored beige shorts and a rich brown belt for a clean, pulled-together daytime outfit. Ideal for a coffee in Saint-Tropez or a walk through the old port in Cannes. Brown sandals, a basket bag, and timeless sunglasses round it out.
Look 5: Day Trip to Antibes
This look brings a bit of Riviera glamour to your daytime exploring. A brown top paired with a cream skirt and espadrilles feels classic and chic. Add a silky scarf to tie in your hair to elevate the outfit as you explore gardens, museums, or sip rosé with a view.
Look 6: Laid-Back Luxe
Soft, slinky, and refinedthis cream drawstring skirt paired with a striped top feels relaxed yet elevated. Woven accessories and minimal black sandals tie it all together for a coastal dinner or apéro on a terrace with sea views.
Look 7: Riviera Evenings in Black
A simple black linen dress is your best friend for an elegant dinner by the water. Styled with gold knot earrings, a woven clutch, and minimal black sandals, this look is effortless yet elevated. Perfect for evenings in Villefranche-sur-Mer or rooftop cocktails overlooking the Mediterranean.
Packing Tips for the French Riviera
Stick to soft tones & texture: Creams, whites, sandy beige, deep browns, and a touch of black or navy keep the palette cohesive. Add interest with textures like linen, raffia, and gold jewelry.
Think walkable elegance: Strappy sandals, espadrilles, and chic sneakers cover all the Riviera terrain, from cobblestone alleys to beachside promenades.
Less is more: With the right pieces, you won’t need to pack much. Everything in this capsule works together, so you can pack light and still have options.
Bring a woven bag & hat: These add instant style and function, giving every look a Riviera-ready feel while keeping you shaded under the sun.
Pack a pearl or gold detail: Whether it’s earrings, a necklace, or a watch, these small touches go a long way to polish even the simplest outfit.
Recommended Towns to Visit
Èze: A charming hilltop village with dreamy views and enchanting stone paths.
Antibes: Perfect for beach days, art museums, and one of the best local markets.
Villefranche-sur-Mer: Known for its relaxed feel, colorful buildings, and quiet charm.
Menton: Nestled on the Italian border, it’s full of citrus trees, pastel facades, and Riviera flair.
Saint-Tropez: Famous for its glamorous vibe, but still offers quaint streets, chic boutiques, and stunning coastal walks if you know where to look.
Ramatuelle: Just outside Saint-Tropez, this peaceful village is surrounded by vineyards and offers a more serene Provençal experience.
Grimaud: A medieval village with cobbled lanes, flower-covered facades, and panoramic views over the Gulf of Saint-Tropez.
La Turbie: Overlooking Monaco, this quiet gem blends Roman history with sweeping sea views and a cozy village feel.
Cap Ferrat (Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat): Ideal for coastal walks, hidden beaches, and admiring grand villas tucked among pine trees.
Whether you’re planning a getaway or just dreaming of one, I hope this capsule gives you inspiration to pack with intention and ease. These seven looks are designed to carry you through coastal adventures with confidence and timeless elegance, à la Française!
And if the Riviera isn’t on your map this summer, this capsule is still a perfect summer foundation! Wherever you're headed, these looks are made to simplify your style and highlight the beauty of warm days, natural fabrics, and elevated essentials.
With Amour,
M.