Packing for Provence

20 May 2015

For the last few weeks John and I have been firming up our plans for France. We made the big decisions earlier in the year, but now we’re mapping out our days, looking up Metro stops, buying museum tickets, and making restaurant reservations. Exciting, but a bit overwhelming! For a little break from our brain squeezing planning sessions, I thought I’d return with the second installment of my European packing posts! If my style for Provence looks a little similar to Paris, that’s not a mistake – since we’re packing in a carry-on apiece, I’m trying to make everything work together! Provence style, though, will be a little bit looser – comfortable and cool (it will be hot!), but still chic. Here are a few of the pieces I’m packing… or wish I was!

Packing-for-provence

Chambray shirt | Can be dressed up or down, worn with jeans, a skirt, or shorts. Mine is from J.Crew Factory.
A tunic-style white button down | Worn belted, perhaps with leggings?
Black straw hat | Sun protection in style! Mine is from Old Navy a few years ago.
White jeans | Mine are from J.Crew Factory last year.
Black and white skirt | For a more dressed up dinner. Mine is from Francesca’s last year.
Patent leather sandals | I’m not sure how comfortable these would be, but I love the look!
Striped linen-cotton dress | Looks perfect for browsing Provencal markets!
A chic one-piece | This suit! I love it! However, a BIG warning to anyone who’s considering buying it: size wayyyyy up. I am usually a 0/2, and I’m keeping an 8 (!). The cups are a tad bigger than I would like, but the halter allows me to adjust. SO chic and European, though, so it’s totally worth it!
Rolled denim shorts | Y’all told me denim is okay in France, so I might be packing this pair for casual site-seeing.
Lipstick | This bright pinky red seems perfect for dressing up simple outfits! Organic, too.
Sunglasses | Of course!
Straw market bag | See above about strolling through French markets – I’d have this tote slung over my arm!

Now back to mapping and scheduling!

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May 20, 2015 8:49 am

Ridiculously excited for you!

May 20, 2015 10:50 am

Emily – I bought those J.Crew factory sandals a few weeks ago in the camel color, and they’re super cute but I wouldn’t recommend them for lots of walking! I think my Jack Rogers are much more comfortable if I’m going to be on my feet all day.

Love the pieces you’ve picked out and the way you can mix & match them!

Marisa

Victoria B
May 20, 2015 3:12 pm

So exciting! The trip must be coming up soon. These picks are so fun! :) Enjoy!

May 20, 2015 5:37 pm

I’m already so excited to see photos from your trip- and they don’t exist yet! :) Ben wants us to each just pack a carry on for our trip as well.. you’re giving me confidence to think we can do it! If you have any tips on packing light.. send them my way, friend! :) Also, I have that dress! I got it on sale for $20 at the end of last summer and have been eagerly awaiting this summer to get a bunch more mileage in it!

Julie
May 22, 2015 1:59 pm

Ok, that swimsuit is just too chic! Love your style!

Marget
May 26, 2015 12:23 pm

I’m packing a big, straw sunhat for France, too, and the one thing I can’t figure out is… HOW to pack it! I’d love to know tips to keep it from getting squashed that don’t entail carrying by hand (with infant babe in tow, I need my hands free!) XO

November 26, 2015 4:24 am

Hi Em! I love your blog and the things you share. My husband and I are planing to go to France too, but still don’t know when. It’s so helpful that you shared this packing ideas. I hope you had a great time!! Greetings