As we begin to plan again for the summer, I always do a summer clothes clean-out and organization and consider what to pack. Since my first trip with D. to Cannes in 2000, I no longer wear shorts, as few women in Europe wear them. Only recently do I see some wearing the longer ones which have become fashionable in the states, but older women never would be seen in them. Skirts, slacks, dresses, mostly linen due to the heat, mainly earth-tones. In NY, we live in black, year-round. Maybe a few colors mixed in for a change or contrast. Definitely not white.
When we spent time at the beach, especially Cannes, the attire was very New York, very high-style and expensive. Tourists from all over the world trying to demonstrate their wealth. We learned over time about the safety issues including kidnappings and robberies, and we always worried about watching the children with great care.
In contrast, Provence is low-key, many people with money who just want to relax, unwind, while fashionable, not necessarily fashionista.
In Provence, I find myself in white slacks, or either a short skirt or white long-flowing skirts, and even an-off white dress, long and light-weight. Yes, I prepare for some rain with one sweater, one pair of jeans, one long-sleeve shirt, and a shawl or two, but the weather is usually so hot and dry that comfort, while still having some style, is critical. Always included are t's courtesy of Uniqlo (in NYC( which have built-in bras, and other t-shirts purchased at Monoprix (in France) or Target,at least two bathing suits (with stylish cover-ups if we go to the beach), and nice sandals, as well as comfortable sandals, as we are always walking, and one pair of track shoes for our long after-dinner walks near the house. The uniform for a local night-time dinner excursion is definitely a black shirt with white pants. Last year I fortunately threw in the bag at the last minute some yoga-type pants which I ended up wearing for riding in the Camargue. Always at least one nice hat for daily wear, my Longchamp beach/shopping bag.
For men, the attire is similar. Definitely no shorts. Capris or slacks, jeans, relaxed light-weight shirts, t-s or short-sleeve button down, shoes with no socks or sandals. The must-have bathing suit for men - the Villebrequin - which is forever fashionable in fabulous prints.
Of course, staying in a house where we can do laundry is a huge advantage, especially when we are there for several weeks, allowing us to pack less not more than a hotel-based trip.
Just writing this, I know if I could, I would pack in an hour and leave tomorrow. I am so ready.
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