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There is just something about the French Riviera aesthetic that screams chic, relaxed, and classic. It would make anyone want to jet off to the South of France and dress up in elegant summer outfits, but of course, not everyone can. Not only is there the planning and budgets to think of, but then you have work, time off, and childcare that all need to be considered as well. However, you don’t need to be in the south of France to enjoy this coastal European fashion aesthetic. You can rock espadrilles and classy swimsuits on your staycation or even in your backyard. Here’s what you need to put together a French Riviera-inspired look to enjoy your very own European summer!
1. Black, White, or Striped Swimsuit
Nothing says European summer quite like a neutral swimsuit. If you only pack two swimsuits in your suitcase (or wear laying out in your backyard), make it a high-waisted two-piece and a classy one-piece in black or white.
These colors and styles are the most versatile and can easily match the rest of your summer wardrobe, not to mention moonlight as clothing pieces by wearing your swimsuit as a bodysuit with jeans or wearing your two-piece top as a crop top with a high-waisted skirt.
The French Riviera style is all about class, so it’s best to save your neons and cut-outs swimsuits for a different aesthetic. And once you’ve got your neutral swimsuit, get a striped one because, France!
2. Linen Shirt
It’s not a European summer without a linen shirt. The key to achieving the French Riviera look is by using a neutral color palette, so when choosing a linen shirt, consider going for a crisp white shade.
Wearing a white linen shirt is always a good idea for any summer occasion, but especially when in Europe or emulating the South of France look.
Whether it’s walking down the cobblestone streets or enjoying gelato, a linen shirt will get the job done perfectly. Plus, it’s so versatile! The styling options are truly endless. Pair it with denim shorts, linen pants, or even wear it over your swimsuit as a coverup.
3. White Wide-Leg Jeans
Even though it’s warm, white jeans are still a must-have piece for the European summer look. They look so effortlessly comfortable and chic and can be dressed up for dinner.
Choose a pair of cropped wide-leg pants and pair them with sandals or espadrilles for a classy European summer look.
4. Sandals
Ditch your plastic flip-flops and opt for a classy style instead. Minimalist leather sandals are a must-have for a European summer look.
For days when you want to pick up fruit for breakfast and fresh flowers at the farmer’s market, reach for these stylish sandals. When it comes to a French Riviera style, you want to choose a pair of slides that look luxurious.
5. Denim Shorts
Every summer wardrobe needs a solid pair of shorts. Denim shorts are simple, but that’s the beauty of them.
They can match everything from your white tank tops to even your swimsuits. To dress them up, pair them with espadrilles and a linen shirt.
6. Linen Dress
Besides the many white pieces you need for a European summer, other classic shades like light blue are a must-have. This color is perfect for a beachy destination.
Linen or cotton is the material of choice and puff sleeves add a cute, beachy vibe. Accessorize this dress with brown sandals and a straw bag and you have yourself a go-to European summer look.
7. Wedge Espadrilles
The French Riviera style is not only about slipping on flats. You can be vacation ready in wedge espadrilles too. These glamorous wedge heels are perfect for summer soirees too, should you stay stateside this summer.
Complete them with a linen dress and you are ready to hit the town or go out to dinner!
8. Breton Top
No European wardrobe is complete without stripes! This versatile and timeless top can be worn with your linen pants or denim shorts and will look chic with very little effort.
Dress it up or down with either your classic sandals or stylish espadrilles. If you get one thing this summer, let it be an easy striped shirt.
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9. Tortoiseshell Sunglasses
To look like you are just about to step foot on a yacht in St. Tropez, amp up your summer accessory collection with tortoiseshell sunglasses.
These tortoiseshell sunglasses add a big style boost to your outfit. Use them to accessorize your swimsuit and bucket hat.
10. Basket Bag
It doesn’t get more classic than a sunshine-friendly basket bag. This bag will give your European summer outfit a French Riviera twist.
Take it to the beach and perch it next to you as you read your novel or magazine. Snap some photos and see how it looks like you are sunbathing in the South of France!
11. Pendant Necklace
For your European summer look, you are going to need jewelry that will go with all your outfits.
This coin pendant necklace is the perfect pick. Minimal and chic, the design is not too busy and will add that vintage touch to your outfits.
12. Straw Hat
Easy straw hats make up the majority of a French Riviera look. They give a swimsuit and a simple tank an instant update.
Embrace natural sun-kissed skin and natural beachy hair for a summer you’ll never forget.
Knowing what to wear for a European summer and pulling off the French Riviera look may seem like a hard style to recreate, especially when you are not in the region. Luckily, none of these clothing pieces actually require being in the South of France to have the look!
Got traveling on the brain? If you’re headed somewhere tropical this season, then make sure you have the pieces you need to create numerous outfits. Find out what those are in A Minimalistic and Chic Tropical Vacation Capsule Wardrobe!
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in fashion and style, I can provide you with information related to the concepts mentioned in the article about creating a French Riviera-inspired look. Let's dive in!
French Riviera Aesthetic
The French Riviera aesthetic is known for its chic, relaxed, and classic style. It is often associated with elegant summer outfits and a coastal European fashion vibe. The article suggests that you don't need to be in the south of France to enjoy this aesthetic and provides tips on how to create a French Riviera-inspired look for your own European summer.
Neutral Swimsuits
To achieve a European summer look, the article recommends opting for a neutral swimsuit. Black, white, or striped swimsuits are considered the most versatile and can easily match the rest of your summer wardrobe. High-waisted two-piece swimsuits and classy one-piece swimsuits in neutral colors are suggested as essential pieces for a French Riviera-inspired look.
Linen Shirt
A linen shirt is a must-have for a European summer look, especially when aiming for the French Riviera style. Choosing a crisp white linen shirt is recommended to achieve the desired neutral color palette. A white linen shirt can be worn for various summer occasions and can be paired with denim shorts, linen pants, or even worn over a swimsuit as a cover-up.
White Wide-Leg Jeans
White wide-leg jeans are still a must-have piece for a European summer look, despite the warm weather. They are effortlessly comfortable and chic and can be dressed up for dinner. Opt for a pair of cropped wide-leg pants and pair them with sandals or espadrilles for a classy European summer look.
Sandals
Ditch your plastic flip-flops and opt for minimalist leather sandals to elevate your European summer look. Choose sandals that have a classy style and look luxurious. They are perfect for casual outings like picking up fruit for breakfast or visiting the farmer's market .
Denim Shorts
A solid pair of denim shorts is a staple in every summer wardrobe. They are simple yet versatile and can be paired with various tops, including white tank tops and swimsuits. To dress them up, you can pair them with espadrilles and a linen shirt.
Linen Dress
Light blue linen or cotton dresses are perfect for achieving a beachy European summer look. Puff sleeves add a cute and beachy vibe to the dress. Accessorize the dress with brown sandals and a straw bag to complete the look.
Wedge Espadrilles
While slipping on flats is a common choice for the French Riviera style, wedge espadrilles can also be a great option. They add glamour to your summer look and are perfect for summer soirees. Pair them with a linen dress for a stylish and elegant outfit.
Breton Top
No European wardrobe is complete without stripes! A Breton top, which is a versatile and timeless top with stripes, is a must-have. It can be worn with linen pants or denim shorts and can be dressed up or down with classic sandals or stylish espadrilles.
Tortoiseshell Sunglasses
To add a touch of elegance to your European summer outfit, consider adding tortoiseshell sunglasses to your accessory collection. They can instantly boost your style and can be used to accessorize your swimsuit and bucket hat .
Basket Bag
A sunshine-friendly basket bag is a classic accessory that can give your European summer outfit a French Riviera twist. It's perfect for taking to the beach and adds a touch of coastal charm to your look.
Pendant Necklace
For your European summer look, a coin pendant necklace is recommended. It is minimal and chic, adding a vintage touch to your outfits. The design is not too busy and can easily complement various outfits [[11]].
Straw Hat
Easy straw hats are a key element of the French Riviera look. They instantly update a swimsuit or a simple tank top and add a touch of natural beachy vibes to your summer look. Embrace natural sun-kissed skin and beachy hair for a summer you'll never forget [[12]].
Remember, you don't need to be in the South of France to enjoy the French Riviera aesthetic. By incorporating these key pieces and styling tips into your wardrobe, you can create your own European summer look wherever you are. Enjoy your stylish summer!
