How to Look Local in the South of France, One Outfit at a Time

The first time I traveled to Provence as an adult, I was on my own, meeting a friend who had rented a house in Le Paradou to celebrate her birthday. It was mid-April and the weather was the opposite of London (where I lived at the time). It was sunny and 70s whereas London had been overcast, chilly, and rainy. I flew into Marseille, rented a car, and within a morning had been transported from my Kensington flat to a large home with a garden and a pool glistening in the early afternoon sunlight.

This trip sticks out in my mind for many reasons, first, it was a fun weekend celebrating my friend. Second, it was my first time to Provence as an adult, third, I flew on Ryan Air so my baggage was heavily restricted, and I nailed my packing, and fourth, I was introduced to Miraval Rosé which had just launched and was not yet everywhere but was becoming common in the brasseries in which we ate.

April, May and June can be tricky months to pack for Provence because of the nor’easter wind (I’ve been there in June when it was blowing and it. Was. Cold.). But I’ve also been many times in September and it is my favorite time to be there: the days are still warm as a hug, the sun is still shines dependably, and the crowds have dispersed enough that you can really feel the rhythm of the city.

In this post you’ll find the exact capsule I would pack for Provence in September and why.