The South of France is a region full of so many beautiful destinations, including Provence which happens to be one of my favorite places in the world. As the founder of En Route to Rêverie I return to Paris and other popular regions in France regularly so I can help my travel clients make the most of their trip.
A few years ago I traveled to the area with my friend Merritt, and I’m so excited to return and soak up the beautiful landscapes and charming villages this summer. The region is full of tiny villages, rolling hills, cobblestoned streets, colorful buildings, fields of flowers and weekly markets serving up delicious produce and other fare. I love this part of France for helping you to slow down and really soak up a slower vibe.
When is Summer in Provence
June, July and August are some of the most popular months to travel to Provence and also when you’ll find the warmest weather. If you’re planning a trip to France in the summer, I highly recommend adding Provence to your itinerary. Generally speaking, the Provence region refers to the Mediterranean coastline of southeastern France, including the nearby mountainous areas. Provence is actually made up of hundreds of cities, towns, and famed villages such as Aix-en-Provence, Gordes and Avignon.
Related: What to Know Before You Go to Provence
What To Wear in Provence in Summer
With summer temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s, think breezy linen dresses, light cotton shirts, and woven bags. The summer style in Provence is laid back but chic, with lots of neutral colors that can be easily mixed and matched. Basically, channel your inner French woman meets Nancy Myers aesthetic and you can’t go wrong!
Read on for my Packing List for Provence. I also always recommend you try on your outfits before you put them in your suitcase and keep a Notes app in your phone of what you plan to wear each day and night. This will ensure you don’t overpack and know exactly what’s in your suitcase!
Related: What to Pack for a Flight to France
1. White Linen Dress
This dress was made to be worn in Provence! If you need additional sizes you can shop it here. I’ve also rounded up some other white summer dresses I’m loving.
2. Floral Midi Dress
You can’t go wrong with a blue and white floral print dress and I especially love the flattering smocking that makes packing easy (no wrinkles!) I also love this option from Tuckernuck.
3. Linen Slip Dress
One of my favorite J.Crew silhouettes is back for summer in breezy linen. Pair this dress with a denim jacket and sneakers for exploring cobblestone streets during the day, and dress it up with espadrille wedges at night. This dress is super versatile!
4. High Neck Linen Dress
The ultimate throw-on-and-go dress, this swingy linen blend dress is a steal at $70 and would be perfect for those super warm days. I love how effortless this style is.
5. Button Up Shift Dress
This darling shift dress comes in navy and white and I think the big gold buttons are just so fun! For a similar silhouette, I also love this option.
6. Classic Sunnies
This pair of sunglasses from Le Spec have long been one of my favorites. For a more affordable option, I’m also loving these cat eye sunnies.
7. Black Bathing Suit
This classic one shoulder swimsuit is super flattering, pictured wearing it here. I also love this option from Summersalt (that bow!) as well as L*Space’s bikinis.
8. Market Tote
You simply cannot travel to Provence without a chic basket tote and I’m loving the size and shape of this one from Mango. If you pack thoughtfully enough you could even make this your carryon. This option that you could lay flat in your suitcase also caught my eye as well as this option under $50.
9. Cotton Blouse
This puff-sleeve squareneck blouse in super light cotton is such a darling and versatile option for the South of France. Pair this top with jeans, shorts or a skirt.
10. Denim Shorts
I have gotten so much wear out of my beloved Agolde denim shorts. I think these are great and comfortable option to pack for a day of exploring. I like to pair mine with an oversized linen button down to wear over my swimsuit when I head to the pool in Provence. I took this button down in a size Small.
11. Linen Trousers
I love that wide leg trousers are having a moment! A comfortable linen pair are the perfect addition to your Provence wardrobe because they are light, breezy, and super chic. These trousers from Abercrombie have a cult-like following but sell out quickly. Everlane also makes a great pair. Dress them up or dress them down.
12. Mini Woven Purse
I love when it’s finally warm enough to break out my collection of summer bags! There are so many fun options for smaller woven purses this year. This option with a shoulder strap, this darling neutral purse, this bucket bag, and this $30 mini bag are also great finds.
13. Espadrille Wedge
These shoes are a summer staple for me. I love how these espadrilles pair with midi dresses and they’re comfortable enough to wear all evening.
Related: Best Summer Shoes For Women
14. Leather Sandal
I definitely recommend packing a sandal that you can throw on and go, and this timeless slide sandal can be easily dressed up or dressed down. If you’re ready to make an investment, I adore my Hermes Oran sandals.
15. Straw Hat
For sunny days by the pool or strolling around local markets on extra hot and sunny days, a straw hat is a must! This wide brim Panama hat from Cuyana is also a great option.
16. White Sneakers
I’ve written an entire post about why I love these Common Projects sneakers. A comfortable white sneaker that goes with everything is a must for me no matter where I’m traveling!
Provence Summer Outfit Ideas
White Dress with White Sneakers
These white Veja sneakers and these canvas Superga sneakers are great alternatives to my beloved Common Projects.
White Linen Dress and Brown Sandals
Easy, breezy and perfect for Provence – you can’t go wrong with this outfit combo. Pin the above image for later and shop the styles seen here.
Espadrille Wedges
This style has been worn for decades for good reason. Comfy and perfect for evening dinners in Provence.
Classic Black Sunglasses
For those bright and sunny days in Provence. The style above can be shopped here.
Shirtdress and Espadrilles
A timeless style that was made for Provence. Pin this image for inspiration later and shop the styles here.
Black Linen Dress
This is one of my absolute favorite summer dresses from La Ligne (I sized up to Large)! The full skirt makes it romantic and beautiful for evening wear.
Other black dresses I love for summer include this super affordable option from Amazon Fashion and this dress under $100 from Reformation.
White Dress and Straw Hat
The Hill House Nap Dress in white eyelet is perfect for summer (I wear a Small), and I also love this squareneck linen dress from J.Crew (I sized up to an 8). For traveling with a hat, I recommend purchasing a TOPTOTE hat holder to clip to your bag.
Brown Leather Sandals
A classic T-strap sandal like the Hermes Oran are a timeless style that are perfectly versatile for your trip to Provence.
This pair from Talbots is a similar favorite of mine. I find Talbots shoes to be so well made and so well priced! The pairs I’ve owned are super comfortable and hold up well.
Sweater and Shorts
I always recommend a light sweater in Provence for cooler mornings at the markets and in the evenings. During day time I like to pair mine with a pair of shorts.
Linen Trousers
Pin this for later and shop the above styles here.
Linen Jumpsuit
A linen jumpsuit can be a nice and easy throw on and go comfortable outfit idea for exploring.
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More Items to Consider Packing for Provence in Summer
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