St-Tropez is one of those mythic-level holiday destinations, where its storied past, glamorous heydey, and glittering coastline pull in thousands of sun-seekers each summer. A one-time sleepy fishing village, it became the French Riviera ’s buzziest spot after Paris ’ left bank started to descend in the 1960s, creating a chic coastal paradise, a narrative emphasised by the likes of Brigette Bardot in And God Created Woman , which was filmed on its shores. Today, it’s retained its insider cachet as the stomping ground of the jet set as well as forming the backdrop to some of France’s most glamorous boltholes, so dressing the part is crucial.
Here is our guide to stepping into St Tropez’ coastal style. For off-duty dressing that retains a put-together charm, look for structured shirt dresses in rustic prints or fabrics, such as linen. This easy-to-wear silhouette will see you from the farmers market to lunch at a beach club.
Pair with flats and a basket bag or a large sunhat for a touch of retro charm. Popularised by the likes of Jane Birkin and Jean Shrimpton, Mary Jane pumps have an elegant yet coquettish charm that’s smart enough for St Tropez’ high end boutiques but wearable enough to brave the old towns cobbled streets. A patent pair gives a gorgeous old-school edge, or look for touches such as embellished buckles for a chic, homespun touch.
Nothing screams ‘I didn’t travel hand luggage only’ decadence like a gorgeous, big straw hat. At once practical f.