What to Pack for a French Riviera Holiday: Côte d'Azur Outfit Roundup

Traveling the French Riviera {or Côte d’Azur} just feels glamorous in my opinion. The massive, glitzy homes, the fancy beach clubs, the yachts…you get the point. For years, the South of France has been a destination for the jet set crowd. So when packing for the French Riviera, you want to keep in mind that you can really get as fancy as you want, but you can also be super relaxed. Below I’ll share a bunch of tips on what to pack, and what to leave behind, when you visit the Côte d’Azur!

Flowy Off-the-Shoulder Blush Maxi Dress {similar here & here} // Gold Chainlink Crossbody Bag {similar} // Chambray Shorts with Tie Waist // White Peplum Smocked Top // Mini Backpack {similar} // Hair Scarf on Bag

Dusty Blush High Waisted Shorts // White Lace Peplum Top with Strappy Back // Wedge Sandals // Chainlink Crossbody Bag

Floral Multi-Color Maxi Dress {similar} // Chainlink Crossbody Bag // Polka Dot Romper {similar} // Studded Sandals

Ivory Romper {similar} // Lacy Bralette {similar here & here that I also have} // Studded Sandals {similar} // Tassel Earrings // Mini Backpack {similar}

Ruffle Off-the-Shoulder Bikini Top // High Waisted Textured Bikini Bottom // Crochet Earrings

Unlike Paris {check out my Paris Packing Tips + Outfit Roundup here} which is a little more chic and sophisticated, on the French Riviera, anything really goes lol. I kept it casual but chic in fun tailored rompers with cute French-feeling details, maxi dresses, and top & short combos that were breezy but still put together. Check out my tips below for what to wear & what not to wear on the French Riviera plus all the details for where to shop my outfits!

Pack It

Cute, tailored rompers
Maxi dresses
Nicer sundresses
Tailored shorts & top combos
Bathing suits
Sun hat
Large beach bag {for stashing outfit changes in between exploring the coastal towns & hitting the beach plus a towel & sarong}
Sunscreen {I highly recommend this SPF50 setting mist that keeps you from getting burnt & gets rid of sweat & shininess! Also smells like mint so it’s a must-have!}
Sunglasses
Sarong {great for dabbing away perspiration while exploring and also as a cover for the beach/pool. I always bring one that can double as a “blanket” or scarf on the plane}
Beach sandals {the beaches are mostly rocky in France, so you want a pair you can wear in the rocky pebbles that give support & you don’t mind potentially getting a little beat up}
Bralettes vs. bras {it can get very hot & sweaty exploring and bralettes will be more comfortable in these conditions & also dry faster!}
Slingback backpack, sneakers, socks & workout clothes if you plan to do any of the hikes along the coast {which I do recommend!}
Hair scarves & accessories {there’s no such things as being “extra” in the Côte d’Azur so live it up ~ & glam yourself up ~ while you are there!}

Leave It Behind

Denim of any kind ~ you will stand out in jeans or cutoff shorts {chambray is ok either shorts, tanks, dresses, button down etc.}
Touristy kinds of tees or tanks {like things that say the name of other places you have visited or other types of advertise-y graphics}
Sweatshirt or sweatpants {unless you need for the flight, leave it behind. It will be too hot and you probably won’t feel comfortable wearing sweats anywhere in the South of France…I recommend a lightweight sweater layer & tailored joggers instead if you need}
Plastic thong flip flops or crocs etc. {nicer sandals or slip on shoes are preferred, you will stand out if you wear more “American” footwear like these}
Heels {you won’t have any need at all for heels, plus it’s a lot of walking. If you want to bring wedges or flatforms for a nicer dinner or two, those are fine since they will function on the cobblestone!}
Bodycon or mini dresses {despite being glitzy, the French Riviera is not like Miami, dress a little more sophisticated/mature when going out in the evening, you will thank me!}
Beach/pool towel {mostly everywhere you stay will provide towels of some sort so you can just bring with you on day trips etc.}