As a fashion editor and champion of the high street, Krissy Turner is our go-to woman when it comes to shopping for trend-led buys. In her second edit of the season, she puts the Riviera trend on our radar.... by Krissy Turner@misskrissyturner , fashion editor at @Eliza
Style on the French Riviera has become its own summer fashion category entirely, and it’s easy to see why: when holiday goers in the 50s needed outfits that ticked the boxes for leisure activities, sweltering sunshine and in stylish locations, straw hats, cropped trousers, silk scarves and striped tops fit the bill nicely. The ‘Riviera’ look - with its wafty casual linens, smart separates and elegant accessories - has since become the epitome of relaxed summer chic.
Even if your summer holiday break is looking more like Cornwall than Cannes, the Riviera uniform is the easiest way to see out warm weather in style. Here are the seven pieces to try this spring…
The espadrilles
Toeing the glamorous and functional line is the ever-versatile wedge espadrille. This navy pair will elevate jeans and a linen blouse, but equally, will add a casual feel to an A-line white midi dress. With a walkable heel height of 2ins, they’re perfect for all-day wear, so an ideal summer shoe for the office, too.
The pale blue shirt
No spring wardrobe is complete without a classic blue shirt, and in relaxed linen, this long-sleeved style goes one further since it’s a staple in elegant Southern France style. Tucked into slim white trousers and and with an oversized straw hat, it nails modest spring chic.
The striking summer dress
Breathable fabrics are the only way to get through warm weather in style, and this cherry red linen dress is equal parts glam and casual, thanks to the bold hue, smart shape and casual material. Riviera style typically calls for neutrals, but red is a welcome addition to the nautical colour palette. Team it with espadrilles or canvas trainers and jewellery for an effortless outfit.
The striped maxi
What sort of French style guide would this be without mention of a stripe? This lightweight dress nicely bridges the nautical and Riviera trend, so see it as a perfect starting point. Wear yours with an oversized sun hat, espadrilles, and a sweet basket bag. Et voila!
The pretty blouse
With sweet details like a scallop hem neckline and fine bow, this short-sleeved blouse is much more interesting than the average. For a chic tonal look that’ll look more expensive than it is, wear with trousers and sunglasses in the shade. For work, tuck into an A-line navy midi skirt and wear with tan sandals.
The silky scarf
A glamorous addition to any Riviera-inspired look is the printed silk scarf. Its versatility is endless: tie it around your basket bag handle, through the belt loops of your chinos, around your wrist or around your ponytail. Top Riviera style points if you wear yours as a headband with oversized sunglasses, a là Audrey Hepburn.
The white trousers
A pair of smart but comfortable white trousers is a Riviera-must, ticking the casual elegance box with ease. They’re easy to wear for every spring scenario: team with a navy blazer and loafers for the office, with canvas trainers and a Breton top for weekends, and a denim shirt and espadrilles for a spring city break.
Did you enjoy Krissy’s Riviera edit? We hope it transports you to summer days! See more of Krissy’s trend edits with her pick of the Country Garden trend on the hub.
