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What to Pack When Going to the French Riviera This Summer

Here’s the chicest Côte d'Azur-inspired packing list.

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If you plan to spend part of this summer soaking up the sun in one of France’s famous Côte d'Azur beaches, make sure you do so in style. Places like Saint Tropez, Antibes, and Cannes are famous for being a playground for the world’s most famous and jet-setting crowd––complete with top hotels like the Hotel De Paris Saint-Tropez––and you may as well find yourself rubbing elbows with celebrities and European royalty.

That being said, leave the ball gown at home. Pack pieces that are elegant and sophisticated in a casual way. After all, French style is all about being effortlessly chic and that applies to your vacation style as well.

Brands like Rouje—the brainchild of Parisian It-Girl and Instagram influencer Jeanne Damas—and Jacquemus—the eponymous label of South of France-native Simon Porte Jacquemus—really epitomize this idea of looking chic in a very subtle way. Forget about loud pieces with in-your-face logos, it’s all about beautiful, well-tailored, well-made, easy-to-wear vacation essentials and accessories.

Here we rounded up the most stylish pieces to take with you to the South of France.

Related: Chic Wrap Dresses

Jacquemus Cortese Fringed Dress

Simon Porte Jacquemus’ designs are inspired by his Provençal upbringing, which translates into flowy, feminine styles. This beautiful evening dress sports fringes and reminds us of the way we’d tie a pareo on the beach—it is the perfect number to wear to a formal dinner or a boat party.

To buy: $1,165, farfetch.com

Rouje Gloria Skirt

Leave it to Parisian It-girl Jeanne Damas to create the ultimate summertime staple that symbolizes everything we love about her style—effortless, sexy, and easy-to-wear.

To buy: $152, rouje.com

Amur Marty Cold-shoulder Bustier Top

Pair this beautiful cotton bustier with shorts or a maxi skirt for a chic daytime look.

To buy: $248, saksfiftheavenue.com

Chanel Small Vanity Case

Crafted from rattan and calfskin leather, this purse is the sophisticated, resort-inspired accessory you need for your vacation to the French Riviera.

To buy: $8,400, chanel.com

Chloé Carlina Petite Sunglasses

This pair of round shades is inspired by the company’s signature Carlina style and sports the same metal spirals around the tri-color lenses. The difference is that unlike the oversized Carlina, this one is decidedly smaller.

To buy: $400, chloe.com

Marysia Jitney Shorts in Off-white

Denim shorts are a summer staple but since you’re heading to one of the most refined destinations in Europe, opt for a well-tailored pair like this one by Marysia. It sports a high-waisted silhouette and contrast stitching.

To buy: $295, marysia.com

Isabel Marant Etoile Sage One-shoulder Cutout Swimsuit

Whether you are lounging by the pool at your hotel or on a boat, this one-shoulder swimsuit will make sure you are the chicest sunbather in sight.

To buy: $230, net-a-porter.com

K.Jacques Barigoules Sandals

For a day of sightseeing, pack an elegant pair of leather sandals and get ready to explore the most charming villages in the South of France. Saint Tropez brand K.Jacques received the prestigious Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage Company) award by the French government for its exquisite craftsmanship and know-how.

To buy: $315, kjacques.fr

Michel Vivien Loulou Sandals

This is such an elegant pair of evening sandals, made from calfskin leather that could be worn both with a dress or pants.

To buy: $595, 24sevres.com

Dior Sous Les Etoiles Earrings

The name of these gold-tone hoop earrings translates to “Under the Stars” but you can also wear them during the day—they will be the perfect addition to a bright sundress.

To buy: $660, dior.com

Marysia x Lola Hats Provençal Hat

Don’t leave your hotel room without this beautiful wide-brim hat that features a nautical-inspired wavy rayon trim.

To buy: $705, thewebster.us

American Express Platinum Card® Members receive complimentary Fine Hotels & Resorts® benefits when they book with American Express Travel. Terms Apply.

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