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Planning a trip to the South of France this year?
There’s something about the style there that always draws me in. It’s minimal, refined, and effortlessly chic. Lightweight fabrics, neutral tones, an easy silhouette, quiet luxury at its best. A glass of champagne by the water doesn’t hurt either.
If you’re new here, welcome.
I love working with capsule wardrobes. They take the guesswork out of getting dressed and help you build a closet that feels calm and cohesive. I’ve always believed that packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing style, in fact, it often brings out the best of it.
You’ve probably noticed ‘South of France style’ everywhere this spring, especially on Pinterest. There’s a reason for it. We’re not just dreaming of visiting the Riviera, we want to feel like we belong there.
So today, I’m sharing a curated capsule wardrobe inspired by the South of France.
These are the kinds of pieces I always reach for: natural fabrics, relaxed tailoring, and a few thoughtful details. Nothing loud or over the top, just timeless staples that travel well and wear beautifully.
If you’re heading to the French coast this year or simply want to channel the feeling, this South of France capsule wardrobe edit is for you.
The Perfect South of France Capsule Wardrobe
The Crisp White Dress
Reiss
The Annie dress from Reiss is a fit-and-flare silhouette that drapes out from an empire waistband, giving the dress a simple, yet flattering look.
It’s made from denim but still manages to be lightweight and flowy – perfect for an evening along the Mediterranean. It’s the perfect dress for your South of France capsule wardrobe.
Not only will this dress be perfect for your vacation – but it’ll become a favorite of your looks this spring and summer. From ‘coastal grandma’ to ‘quiet luxury’, this dress is a timeless piece you’re bound to love.
Shoulder Bag
Positano Shoulder Bag
From seaside dinners to shopping and wine tasting, Dolce Vita knew exactly what kind of vacation they were designing this bag for.
Made from raffia, this rope like design is a new take on already classic ‘beach bags’. Just the right size to hold all of your necessities, this purse comes with a shoulder length strap and perfectly compliments your new white dress.
Linen Top
A Staple Piece
This white linen top is designed for layering, a staple to any South of France capsule wardrobe.
If you’ve read any of my other capsule wardrobes, you know that I’m a big fan of a white linen top. It becomes a travel essential because you can layer it over bathing suits, pair it with jeans or put it on over a tank top when the temperature drops.
I like to pair a top like this with lightweight linen shorts or a skirt.
Tube Top
Tube Top
A gorgeous, classic tube top that perfectly encapsulates the South of France.
This gorgeous top is the perfect addition to your South of France Capsule wardrobe. The elevated design means this top will easily dress up a pair of linen shorts or trousers, and the colors go perfectly with everything else shared here.
Linen Shorts
Who wears short shorts
This pair of shorts goes with everything.
I personally love the high-waist, belt and pleats. I’ve basically started living in linen shorts for the better part of the summer.
Tailored Pants
Summer pants
Having a nice, stylish pair of tailored pants can help you plan your dinner and evening outfits.
One thing to always keep in mind when you’re planning your South of France capsule wardrobe is that a lot of places in the French Riviera have dress codes. You can’t wear beachwear, flip flops or sneakers into high end restaurants or casinos. You’ll want a nice pair of tailored pants for these occasions.
Silk Top
Emmy Silk Top
A silk cami like this Emmy Silk Top from Reformation is a must-have for your South of France capsule wardrobe.
It’s lightweight, breathable and perfect for the warm Mediterranean climate. I love how effortlessly chic this top is – you could easily pair it with any of the items in this capsule. And the timeless elegance of silk ensures you’ll feel polished without trying too hard – exactly the kind of understated luxury the French Riviera is known for.
Not only that, but this top packs down to nothing, making it a space-saving essential for your trip
One Piece Swimsuit
Resort Vibes
With its vibrant, artistic print and elegant silhouette, this swimsuit effortlessly blends resort luxury with playful charm.
This bathing suit is ideal for sunbathing in Saint-Tropez or taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Calanques. The flattering cut helps this swimsuit stay stylish on and off the beach. Easily pair it with your linen shorts and oversized linen top for a seaside lunch.
Seashell Bikini
By the seashore..
This seashell bikini from L*Space is the perfect blend of elegance and coastal charm.
This is the perfect bathing suit for your South of France capsule wardrobe. The seashell design is playful and perfect for the Riviera’s chic seaside vibe.
Whether you’re lounging on a yacht in Cannes or soaking up the sun on Pampelonne Beach, this top pairs beautifully with matching bikini bottoms or a breezy linen skirt for a laid-back yet polished look. The flattering fit and adjustable straps ensure comfort, making it a stylish and practical choice for long days by the Mediterranean.
Sarong
Elegance
A sarong is a must-have item for any coastal vacation.
You want to make sure it’s a neutral color that goes well with each of your bathing suits – and this Santorini Sarong from Away That Day is perfect for your South of France capsule. Its lightweight fabric and dreamy hue capture the elegance of the Riviera.
Whether you tie it as a skirt for a beachside café stop or drape it over your shoulders as a chic cover-up, this sarong adds an instant touch of sophistication. It also packs down small, making it a travel-friendly essential that seamlessly transitions from the sand to sunset cocktails.
Straw Hat
Protect that skin
Accessories are the best way to personalize your capsule wardrobes – and I really love this Tulum Hat from Nikki Beach.
Its wide-brim design adds a touch of chic while providing essential sun protection for long days on the coast. It’s made from natural straw which keeps it breathable and lightweight. Pair it with your new white dress for a day spent shopping or your bathing suit and sarong for brunch on the beach.
Espadrilles
Summer date night
I’ve always loved a pair of espadrilles, and this pair is designed with a low heel, keeping it practical for exploring charming villages or strolling along the promenade.
The South of France is full of little villages with steep, cobblestone streets, so you’ll want to keep this in mind when you’re planning the footwear for your trip. This stylish pair of shoes should ensure you always look your best, without compromising comfort
Sandals
So Classic
The Sam Edelman Bay Cutout Sandal is a timeless staple for all of your spring outfits and travel plans.
With its sleek, slip-on design and signature cutout detail, this sandal offers the perfect balance of effortless chic and all-day comfort. The color keeps these incredibly versatile, and they’re much more sophisticated than a typical pair of flip flops. Lightweight and easy to pack, this sandal will become a seasonal go-to.
Sunglasses
Chloe Things
These sunglasses are the ultimate statement accessory for your South of France capsule wardrobe.
Their bold, oversized shape channels Riviera glamour while also offering essential sun protection for long days basking in the Mediterranean glow.
This chic, retro-inspired design pairs beautifully with everything from white dresses to sleek swimsuits. Whether you’re people watching from a cafe in Cannes or driving up the coastal roads, these sunglasses instantly elevate your every look.
Glow Oil
Glow like the Sunset
Be transported straight to paradise with this luxurious glow oil from Sol de Janeiro.
This beautifully scented body oil provides a sun-kissed glow that enhances your skin’s natural radiance, making it perfect for evening strolls along the Mediterranean coast or sunset cocktails by the beach. The rich bronze hue adds a subtle, warm shimmer, making it ideal for highlighting from your cheeks to your shoulders.
Earrings
A Statement in France
When it comes to capsule wardrobes, accessories are everything.
These shell and pearl drop earrings from 8 Other Reasons are the perfect accessory for your French Riviera capsule wardrobe. With a mix of lustrous pearls and delicate gold detailing, these earrings evoke a coastal-chic vibe that perfectly complements the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Whether you’re dressing up for an evening at a stylish restaurant in Monaco or pairing them with a simple sundress for a day out exploring, these earrings are versatile enough to elevate any look.
Final Thoughts
Style in the South of France is all about timeless, minimalist, and chic pieces that can take you from the sun-soaked beaches of the Côte d’Azur to the charming streets of Provence. With these carefully selected items – lightweight silk tops, flattering swimsuits, and chic accessories – you’ll be ready for every moment of your Riviera getaway.
This post explored how to build a South of France capsule wardrobe—elevated, effortless, and made for days in the sun.
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