The Riviera look keeps coming back because it's so easy to live in. It grew up along the coastlines of the French and Italian Riviera, and its formula is simple: linen and cotton that breathe, navy stripes, cream and sand neutrals, and a few good accessories that do the talking quietly. I like it because it works as well for a seaside lunch as for an ordinary summer day in town. Below are 25 head-to-toe outfits in that spirit, each with the fit and fabric details I'd pay attention to, for a trip to the Cote d'Azur or simply for your own hot months at home.
A Ten-Day Coastal Wardrobe From Fourteen Pieces
Most of these outfits share pieces, and a trip along the coast is the best place to prove it. When I plan a summer wardrobe like this, I keep to a tight palette of navy, white, cream and tan with one accent color. Everything mixes, so fourteen items cover ten days:
- Tops: a long-sleeve Breton, a white linen shirt, a knit polo or ribbed tank, and one silk cami.
- Bottoms: white wide-leg trousers, tailored shorts and one midi skirt.
- Dresses: a striped or eyelet midi and a slip dress for evenings.
- Swim: one one-piece and one bikini, so one can dry while you wear the other.
- Layers: a light striped sweater and an unlined linen blazer.
- Shoes: espadrilles or flat sandals for daytime and one low-heel pair for dinners.
The white linen shirt does the most work. It's a cover-up, a jacket over a slip dress and a smart top with shorts. If you pack only one extra piece, make it a second white shirt.
1. Breton stripe top and white linen trousers outfit
This is the starting point for the whole style: a navy and cream Breton top tucked into high-waisted white linen trousers. The boatneck shows the collarbones, which is why it looks so clean with hair pulled back. I tuck only the front so the linen waist doesn't bunch, and roll the sleeves once. Tan leather espadrilles add texture underfoot. Check white linen in daylight before buying; thin weaves show everything, so a fully lined or heavier linen is worth the extra. A straw tote, tortoiseshell sunglasses and small gold hoops are all it needs for a market morning in Antibes.
2. White eyelet midi dress with tan leather sandals
A white eyelet midi dress is one of the most useful summer dresses I know. The cotton broderie is breathable, and the embroidered holes keep it cool, but they also mean it needs a slip or nude underwear. A softly fitted bodice and scalloped hem keep it pretty without fuss. Flat tan sandals with thin straps handle cobbled streets, and a slim tan belt links the waist to the shoes. A small woven clutch and oval sunglasses finish it. It looks especially good against pastel buildings and blue water in photos.
3. Linen co-ord set with straw basket bag
A linen co-ord in sand or sage is the outfit I reach for on mornings when I don't want to think. The short-sleeve button shirt and drawstring shorts read as one long column, which lengthens the frame, and they feel like pajamas. Linen co-ords crease across the lap after sitting, so accept that or choose a linen-cotton blend, which wrinkles less. Braided leather sandals and a big basket bag for towel, sunscreen and a book suit a beach day. Round sunglasses and a silk scarf tied to the bag handle add some personality.
4. Silk slip dress and oversized linen shirt look
An oversized white linen shirt thrown over a bias-cut silk slip dress gets you from lunch to sunset drinks without changing. Bias-cut silk skims the body and shows every line underneath, so I'd only wear it with smooth, no-line underwear and the shirt as cover. Champagne, blush or olive all catch evening light. Leave the shirt open and roll the sleeves. Strappy flat sandals and a fine anklet keep the leg long. A mini raffia crossbody and a silk scarf tied around a ponytail give it a little Grace Kelly polish.
5. High-waisted tailored shorts with button-down shirt
Tailored shorts in a cotton-linen blend look far smarter than denim cutoffs, and they're the shorts I'd pack for town days. Ivory, stone and pale blue all work. The length matters: a hem that sits mid-thigh to just above the knee looks most polished, and a slightly wider leg is cooler than a tight one. Pair them with a light cotton shirt open at the collar and loosely front-tucked. Low block-heel leather mules, a slim watch, a fine chain and a small top-handle bag suit a port lunch or a gallery in Nice.
6. Striped midi dress with espadrille wedges
A navy and white striped cotton midi does the whole job in one piece. I look for a soft scoop neck, short sleeves and an A-line skirt that skims rather than clings; stripes stretched over a tight fit distort and draw attention to every curve. Espadrille wedges with ankle ties give height, and the ties stop the wedge slipping off your heel on slopes. A thin red belt adds a small pop of color. A medium straw bag and cat-eye sunglasses give it that 1960s postcard feel.
7. Crochet cover-up over a one-piece swimsuit
A crochet cover-up over a one-piece swimsuit takes you from the sand to the bar without a change. I'd pick an open geometric weave with a deep V and mid-length sleeves over a black or ivory maillot. Crochet stretches when wet and snags easily on rough wooden chairs, so I'd dry it flat and keep it away from velcro bag closures. Metallic flat sandals dress it up for a terrace drink, and a wide straw hat covers you from the midday sun. Chunky gold hoops and a plain tote finish the look.
8. Wide-leg white trousers and knotted blouse outfit
Wide-leg white trousers in fluid crepe or light linen make a long, cool line and look expensive with very little effort. Pair them with a pale blue or softly striped collared blouse knotted just above the waistband instead of tucked. The knot shortens the top, which helps if you're petite and want more leg. Square-toe woven mules keep the proportions balanced, but check the hem: wide trousers should just skim the top of a flat shoe, not drag on the ground. A gold cuff, layered chains and a cream shoulder bag finish it for a promenade walk.
9. Navy knit polo with cream capri pants
A light navy knit polo with small mother-of-pearl buttons has a retro feel that suits the coast. Tucked into cream capris that end at mid-calf, it shows off patent pointed slingbacks. Capri length is tricky on shorter legs because it cuts the calf at its widest point; a pointed shoe helps a lot, and so does ending the hem just below the calf. A silk scarf at the neck brings a film-star touch. Pearl studs and a small box bag are enough for a seaside lunch or a vineyard visit.
10. Floral maxi dress with flat strappy sandals
A floral maxi in crinkle cotton is the most travel-proof dress on this list, because the crinkle hides creases from the suitcase. A soft lavender, butter yellow and sage palette suits summer light. Adjustable straps and a smocked back mean it fits across several sizes and stays comfortable through a long lunch. Flat sandals with an ankle strap handle uneven paths. Add a woven bucket bag and layered silver necklaces. I'd pack this for a day with a flower market and a wine tasting.
11. Linen blazer and camisole with palazzo trousers
A cream or sand linen blazer over a silk camisole is how I dress up a summer evening without feeling overdressed. A nude cami gives a clean base. Palazzo trousers in the same tone lengthen the body and move well when you walk. The blazer should be unlined or half-lined; a fully lined jacket traps heat in summer. Flat interlocking-strap sandals keep the focus on the proportions. A gold pendant, a few bangles and a suede clutch are right for dinner on a harbor terrace as the breeze picks up.
12. Polka dot wrap dress with woven wedge heels
A black and white polka dot wrap dress suits a wide range of figures because the tie waist adjusts and the V-neck lengthens the neck. Before buying, I sit down in it; some wraps open well above the knee when you're seated. The midi length works for sightseeing and dinner. Raffia wedges add height and texture. A small black crossbody, pearl drops and a red lip give it a slightly retro feel that nods to Brigitte Bardot without looking like dress-up.
13. High-waisted bikini and sheer sarong beach look
A high-waisted bikini in tomato red or deep navy with a sheer printed sarong tied low on the hip gives coverage and still feels confident. High-waisted bottoms lengthen the leg and stay put in waves better than low ones. I tie sarongs at the side hip, which keeps the knot from slipping. Flat rubber sandals, a big straw tote, thick acetate sunglasses, a wide-brim hat and one gold bangle complete it, and the outfit works at a smart beach club or your local pool.
14. White button-down shirt over swimsuit and shorts
An oversized white shirt worn open over a triangle bikini top and linen shorts is my standard cover-up for walking from beach to lunch. Roll the cuffs, leave a few buttons undone and let the tails hang. A men's shirt in cotton poplin is ideal here: it shades your shoulders from sun and dries quickly. Flat leather slides and aviators keep it simple. A canvas tote with leather straps and a silver cuff finish it. Plenty of towns along the coast expect you to cover up away from the beach, so this outfit is practical as well as pretty.
15. Tailored beige shorts suit with bandeau top
A beige shorts suit, with a one-button blazer and cuffed tailored shorts, is the smartest way I know to wear shorts. Wear the blazer open over a white bandeau so the tailoring stands out. The fit check is the shoulder: a blazer that sits past your shoulder bone looks sloppy with shorts, where with trousers you'd get away with it. Kitten-heel mules and a gold watch add polish, and a small woven leather bag holds phone and lipstick. It suits a smart lunch in Monaco or a gallery opening.
16. Striped shirtdress with leather belt and slides
A striped cotton poplin shirtdress has the ease of a cover-up but looks like a proper dress. I cinch it with a slim brown belt for shape and match the tan slides to it. Poplin creases, though less than linen, and it softens nicely with washing. Roll the sleeves below the elbow and leave the top two buttons open. A woven crossbody and thin gold hoops are all it needs. It's the dress I'd pack for a long day that starts with breakfast and ends somewhere unplanned.
17. Off-shoulder linen top and A-line mini skirt
A white off-shoulder linen top with an A-line mini in navy or striped cotton feels flirty but tidy. Off-shoulder necklines slide, so look for one with an elastic band that grips; otherwise you'll spend the day pulling it up. The A-line mini balances the bare shoulders. Closed-toe espadrille flats with ankle ties suit the setting. A small top-handle basket and pearl studs keep it sweet. It works for a slow breakfast and a walk through a seaside village.
18. Chambray shirtdress with rope belt and espadrilles
A chambray shirtdress gives denim's ease in a shape smart enough for a wine tasting. I swap the fabric belt for a natural rope belt knotted at the waist, a tiny change that pushes it toward a nautical look. Chambray is lighter than denim and softens with every wash, so it's comfortable even in high summer. Natural jute espadrilles and a slouchy straw bag keep it relaxed. Round metal sunglasses and a leather wrap bracelet finish it.
19. Sleeveless knit top and silk midi skirt combo
A sleeveless ribbed knit in ecru tucked into a printed silk midi skirt mixes two textures in a way that looks quietly expensive. The knit adds shape on top, and the silk moves and catches evening light. Knit tops can stretch at the hem when tucked for hours, so I'd choose a cropped version that sits at the waistband. Strappy sandals with a small block heel, a long pendant, a few thin rings and a brushed suede clutch finish it for a long sunset dinner.
20. White sundress with gold jewelry and woven clutch
A white cotton voile sundress with thin straps and a smocked bodice is the simplest summer outfit there is. Voile is very light and often semi-sheer, so I check it against a window first. Because the dress is plain, accessories do the work: layered gold chains, a cuff and textured hoops look warm against white. A straw clutch and flat metallic sandals add some shine. A big sun hat and minimal makeup suit a hot afternoon. Pale fabrics stay cooler in sun than dark ones, which is half the reason this palette works so well here.
21. Breton tee with dark denim capris and ballet flats
A long-sleeve navy and ivory Breton with dark denim capris nods to the off-duty icons of the 1950s and 60s. The fitted tee balances the slim cropped jeans and keeps the line neat. I'd choose denim with a little stretch for long walking days. Soft nude or blush ballet flats keep the outfit light, but they have thin soles, so they're better for town than for hilly villages. A thin silk scarf at the neck, a small crossbody and dark oval sunglasses finish it.
22. Silk scarf top and high-waisted linen shorts
Folding a large silk scarf into a halter or bandeau top is a resourceful trick that suits the coast. I fold a large square into a triangle, tie the two ends behind the neck and knot the point at the back, then add a safety pin inside for peace of mind. Pair it with high-waisted ivory or sand linen shorts so only a sliver of midriff shows. Toe-ring sandals and gold bangles add warmth. A roomy straw tote and a silk scarf around a low bun suit a beachfront market or a casual lunch.
23. One-shoulder maillot with palazzo pants evening look
A black one-shoulder maillot with draping becomes a bodysuit under full-length crepe palazzo pants, and the result is a sleek evening column. A swimsuit has no snaps at the crotch, so the bathroom becomes a full undress; I'd only do this for a dinner, not a long night out. Heeled leather sandals and shoulder-grazing gold chandelier earrings make it formal. A small glossy black or tortoiseshell clutch and a slick low bun show off the neckline. It suits a rooftop dinner with a smart dress code.
24. Striped sweater draped over shoulders with jeans
A light striped sweater draped over the shoulders of a white tank with straight white jeans is the classic coastal layer. The sweater is a real layer as well as decoration, since sea breezes get cool in the evening, and fine cotton or merino drapes better than chunky knit. White leather sneakers keep it sporty. A brown belt with a gold buckle, a canvas tote and classic wayfarer sunglasses give it structure. It's my pick for a ferry ride or a bike ride along the seafront.
25. Cream linen maxi skirt with a black bandeau top
A cream linen maxi skirt with front slits and a flat waistband makes a long, calm line. A black bandeau sits snugly at the ribs and gives strong contrast. The front slits are what let you walk easily in a maxi; without them, linen restricts your stride. A thin black belt with a small gold buckle and flat black sandals connect the two colors without breaking the line. A gold cuff and woven shoulder bag add texture. Wear it to a quiet dinner or to watch the sun go down with a glass of rose.
Living With Linen Creases, Salt and Hot Sun
Linen and cotton are what make this style comfortable in heat, but they behave in ways worth knowing before you pack.
Creases are part of linen
Pure linen wrinkles as soon as you sit. Some creasing looks relaxed and right for the setting. If you want a cleaner look, choose linen blended with cotton or viscose, or hang pieces in a steamy bathroom after a shower to drop the worst creases.
Salt water and sunscreen
Salt dries in white marks on dark fabric, and some sunscreens leave yellow or orange stains on white clothes. Rinse swimwear and cover-ups in fresh water after the sea, and let sunscreen soak in before you pull on a white shirt.
Shoes for cobbles and steep villages
Many old coastal towns are built on hills with polished stone streets. Thin-soled ballet flats and new leather sandals get slippery and sore. I'd bring espadrilles with a rubber sole or sandals that are already broken in, and save heels for dinner.
Covering up in town
Churches often ask visitors to cover shoulders and knees, and many seaside towns expect you to dress away from the beach. A scarf or shirt in your bag solves both.
Two Linen Pieces Are Enough to Start
This style lasts because it never looks like it's trying. Every look above rests on the same things: light natural fabric, coastline colors, a couple of good accessories and an ease that never turns sloppy. You don't need a yacht or a ticket south. Start with one or two key pieces, such as white linen trousers or a striped midi, and build from what you already own. Keep fabrics natural, shapes relaxed and the rest of the outfit simple.
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