Dress Like You're in Nice: French Riviera Style in Sydney with Volange Paris

The city of Nice, nestled on the French Riviera, is often regarded as a gem of the Mediterranean. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historic architecture, Nice captures the quintessential charm of southern France while offering an enviable quality of life. Enjoying around 300 days of sunshine per year, locals and expats alike bask in a lifestyle that’s equal parts leisurely and lively.

Photos courtesy of @carolineperier

Despite being a top tourist destination, Nice maintains a relaxed pace of life. The dining scene, too, is a mix of elegant and relaxed, with Mediterranean dishes influenced by both Italian and French flavours. Locals love to gather for apéro at the many sidewalk cafés, embodying the French art de vivre.

Photos courtesy of @carolineperier

Nice has long held an important place in the world of fashion, both as a destination and as a source of inspiration for designers around the globe. Situated on the French Riviera, Nice is known for its Mediterranean elegance, luxurious lifestyle, and artistic atmosphere, all of which influence fashion trends and styles.

In Nice, French women embrace a chic yet relaxed style that perfectly captures the laid-back elegance of the French Riviera. The fashion in Nice reflects the Mediterranean climate, with breezy fabrics, effortless silhouettes, and a blend of French sophistication and casual coastal flair. 

Very similar to what Volange offers in Sydney, the style in Nice is elegant and timeless with a focus on light, chic, and classic clothing. Locals often wear effortless yet polished outfits suited to the climate and depending on the occasion here are some favorites:
Light and Breezy Fabrics
The warm, sunny weather in Nice calls for breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and silk. French women in Nice often wear loose-fitting dresses, airy blouses, and wide-leg pants made from these fabrics to stay cool and comfortable. Linen trousers, flowy sundresses, and button-down shirts are common pieces that balance comfort with style.
Classic Stripes and Nautical Looks
Stripes are a Riviera staple, and you’ll often see French women in Nice sporting classic Breton-striped tops, paired with high-waisted shorts or cropped trousers. The nautical look is popular, with navy, white, and red being the go-to color scheme, giving a nod to the coastal lifestyle without being overdone.
Effortless Dresses
French women in Nice often opt for effortless, elegant dresses. Midi and maxi dresses in neutral tones, floral prints, or soft pastels are popular choices, as they’re easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion. Wrap dresses and slip dresses are also common for a touch of classic French style with minimal effort.
Chic Accessories
Accessories are minimal but thoughtfully chosen. Straw hats, sunglasses, and woven baskets or tote bags are often used to complete an outfit. Straw or raffia bags add a beachy vibe, while classic leather sandals or espadrilles provide comfort and style. Sunglasses are a staple accessory, with cat-eye and aviator styles being particularly popular.
Neutral and Earthy Tones
French women in Nice favour a muted colour palette of whites, beiges, tans, and earthy colours, creating a look that’s fresh, understated, and suited to the sun-soaked landscape. When they incorporate colour, it’s often in soft hues like blush pink, sage green, or sky blue, lending a relaxed elegance.
Minimalist Jewellery
Jewellery is generally understated and minimal, with gold hoop earrings, thin necklaces, and stackable rings being go-to choices. This minimalist approach adds a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the look, staying in line with the effortless elegance typical of French style.
Comfortable Footwear
Nice’s cobblestone streets and promenades call for comfortable yet stylish footwear. Flat sandals, espadrilles, and low-block heels are commonly worn, allowing French women to navigate the city’s terrain with ease while still looking chic. For beach days, slides and woven sandals are favorites.

In Nice, the style is all about timeless pieces and a relaxed approach, prioritizing comfort, sophistication, and a nod to the city’s coastal charm. The look is refined without being fussy, creating an effortlessly chic aesthetic that’s unmistakably French, very Volange and perfect for Sydney!

Prune x