It’s not uncommon for my French husband and me to wade into the age-old debate: Do the French really do it better? There are certainly areas where I suspect they do, but I’d never admit it out loud. Except, of course, when it comes to summer. On that front, I’ll unapologetically concede: the French definitely do summer better.
Escaping for the entire month of August (or July if you’re a juilletiste) is a deeply French tradition, and for the past fifteen years, I’ve happily fallen in line. The only thing I don’t love about this glorious ritual? Packing. I’ve been an over-packer since childhood, and the torch of luggage-related exasperation has passed seamlessly from my father to my husband.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been threatened with divorce after missing trains or flights because we (but really, he) had to haul my suitcases up endless staircases. (I won’t even get into the deficiencies of certain French airports and train stations.) It doesn’t help that my husband somehow manages to pack for an entire month in a carry-on and still look effortlessly chic in that insouciant way the French have perfected.
This year, the warnings have already begun—the number of bags I’m allowed to bring is under fierce negotiation. So in the spirit of preemptive diplomacy (and stylish efficiency), I’ve decided to plan ahead. The goal: fewer “in case I go to…” outfits, and more pieces I’ll actually wear.
Loro Piana Swimsuit
Equal parts playful and flattering, this suit was made for a spritz in hand and a striped lounger nearby. Loropiana.com
MiuMiu Bucket Hat
Chic armor against UV rays and bad hair days. MiuMiu.com
Hermès Domino Set
For those afternoons when no one wants to move, and everyone wants to win. Bonus: it doubles as très chic tabletop décor. Hermes.com
Prada Striped Canvas Tote
Beach bag, market bag, carry-on—with lots of room for overstuffing. Prada.com
Tiffany HardWare Earrings
Luckily packing light doesn’t apply to jewelry…. Tiffany.com
La Double J Striped Crochet Dress
Made for aperitivi, market mornings, and the occasional dance floor detour. Ladoublej.com
Loro Piana Sandals
Soft, neutral, and reliably chic. Perfect for wandering through markets, navigating cobblestones, or simply making the graceful trek from villa to lunch. Loropiana.com