What to Pack for a French Riviera-Inspired Weekend Getaway (Even if You’re Actually Just Escaping to Your In-Laws’ Pool)

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Darling, let's be honest.

The odds of you sipping rosé in Saint-Tropez this weekend are... slim.

But the vibe?

Entirely achievable.

Whether you’re heading to an actual coastal retreat or simply pretending your HOA pool is a private villa in Antibes, it’s time to pack like a French woman who owns a yacht—but doesn't care to mention it.

Let’s curate your Riviera capsule, oui?

👜But First… The French Packing Mindset

French women don’t pack outfits. They pack attitudes.
And those attitudes are:

• I’ll only wear it if I feel delicious in it.

• If it doesn’t go with at least three other things, it’s staying home.

• I don’t chase trends. I curate mystique.

So no, ma belle, you do not need five pairs of shoes “just in case.” You need confidence and a kaftan. Let’s begin.

1. The Oversized Button Down Shirt (a.k.a. Riviera Armor)

Nothing says “I summer on yachts” like a crisp white button down—ideally one that looks like it belongs to a wealthy ex named Jean-Claude.

How to wear it:

• As a cover-up over your swimsuit

• Half-tucked into tailored shorts

• Knotted over a slip dress for sunset drinks

French tip:
It’s not just a shirt—it’s a story. One that begins with “I was in Monaco once…” and ends with a shrug and a smile.

2. A Chic Swimsuit (That Also Functions as a Bodysuit)

One good swimsuit. Not five. Not neon. And absolutely no “Mommy & Me” flamingo prints.

Choose:

• A black one-piece with a plunging neckline

• Or a high-waisted bikini bottom and top in a muted tone

French tip:
Throw on high-waisted trousers over it, add sandals and a straw bag, and boom—suddenly it’s a look, not a swim. Or slip on that white button down, add sandals and lipstick, and wear it straight to lunch. Yes, you can.

3. The Linen Set That’s Both Breezy and Bougie

A matching linen shirt and shorts set is the unofficial Riviera uniform. You look relaxed but also like you just stepped out of a Jacquemus campaign.

Wear it:

• Buttoned and belted with leather slides

• Unbuttoned over your swimsuit

• With the sleeves rolled and the attitude sharp

French tip:
Stick to neutrals or faded pastels. The only loud thing allowed here is your standards. And remember darling, linen wrinkles. So do we. We wear both like art.

4. A Silk Scarf for Dramatic Gestures and Windy Speedboat Rides Or for tying around your messy bun as you unload juice boxes. Either way—chic.

Wrap it:

• Around your neck for 1930s intrigue

• On your bag for “yes, this is my third tote today” energy

• Over your hair, Grace Kelly-style, as you peer out from behind dark lenses and deep thoughts

Hair. Neck. Bag handle. Wine bottle.

There is no wrong way to wear a silk scarf—especially if it’s blowing in the breeze while you dramatically sip sparkling water and judge people’s flip-flops.

Pack at least one. Bonus points if it’s vintage. Extra bonus if it once belonged to your glamorous aunt with questionable morals.

5. The “I’m Just Effortlessly Glamorous” Dress

Every French getaway needs one hero piece: a dress that flutters in the breeze and makes strangers assume you’re someone important.

Go for:

• A slip dress

• A wrap dress

• Or a cotton sundress in a quiet floral

French tip:
If it makes you feel like the lead in a 1960s film who may or may not be hiding secrets, it’s perfect.

6. One Pair of Sunglasses to Rule Them All

We are not blinking in the sun like peasants, non.

Pick one:

• Oversized cat-eyes

• Retro white frames à la ‘60s ingenue

• Something pearl-embellished for absolutely no reason except power

French tip:
Never put them on your head, très American. Wear them or hold them like a tiny shield against mediocrity.

7. The Perfect “Non-Mom” Sandal

You need sandals that say “I’ve never worn orthopedic anything in my life” even if you’ve packed Band-Aids just in case.

Ideal pairs:

• Leather slides that whisper “Saint Laurent, 2018”

• Minimalist strappy sandals, tan or metallic

• Espadrilles with ankle details and summer seduction potential

Pack just one pair. Unless you're bringing a driver. 😉

💼Bonus Luxuries for the Glamorous Overpacker:

• A real book with yellowing pages (bonus: makes you look intellectual at brunch)

• A straw tote that could smuggle a baguette, SPF, and mild resentment

• A red lipstick for when your outfit feels too polite

Darling, I Know…

You might not have a villa. Or a yacht. Or even one uninterrupted moment. But when you dress like a woman with options—suddenly, you become her. And that, mon amour, is the real secret of the Riviera.

Need help becoming that woman every weekend?

👉 Snag your FREE 30 Super French Ways to Do Self-Care guide and turn your routine into a mini-holiday—with better shoes.

With a sunhat and secrets,

The Glamtorious Mrs.