RIVIERA REVERIE
Cocktail in hand, we salute the iconic fashion trends shaped by France’s lavish Mediterranean coast.
From the beaches of Saint-Tropez to the red carpets of Cannes, the French Riviera has long been fertile terrain for glamour. In a nod to the region’s eternal poise, Grey Goose is commemorating its 20th anniversary with the release of a limited-edition Riviera bottle. The eye-catching blue and white label, decorated with nautical stripes and Impressionist-like brush strokes, pays homage to the brand’s French heritage. The signature geese that fly across the original design have been joined by one large avian motif. The Riviera bottle has a coastal beauty that seems tailor-made for waterside soirees. And the ideal tipple to accompany oceanic views is the Grey Goose Le Grand Fizz; a blend of Grey Goose Vodka, StGermain Elderflower Liqueur, lime juice and soda water. Sipping one immediately evokes the yacht-filled marinas of Cannes.
Breton stripes
The origins of the striped Breton top — that seductive wardrobe staple that remains timeless — can be traced to 19th- century seafarers in Brittany. But it was Coco Chanel, in a seminal nautical-themed collection from 1917, who made the utilitarian item fashionable. It was a hit at seaside destinations including Saint-Tropez and embraced by a constellation of luminaries. Marilyn Monroe, Jean Seberg, Audrey Hepburn and James Dean are among those who have famously worn one. The cotton shirt has also been referenced by countless brands, including Balmain, Gucci and Givenchy, while Jean Paul Gaultier is perhaps its biggest fan.
The bikini
French designer Jacques Heim, the avid proprietor of a beach-themed boutique in Cannes, debuted a modest two-piece swimsuit in 1946. But it was another Frenchman, engineer Louis Réard, who whittled the design down to its modern, minimalist proportions. Réard was said to have been inspired by women on SaintTropez beaches who rolled up their bathing suits as they worked on their suntans. In 1953, when it was still considered a risqué look, Brigitte Bardot was photographed wearing a bikini on the beach during the Cannes Film Festival.
Straw bags
Woven baskets and straw clutches are synonymous with beach resort towns, but especially those on the Côte d’Azur. At the Cannes Film Festival, Jane Birkin once paired her glittering cocktail dress with a wicker basket. Later, Hermès would tap her to create a luxe leather version. Basket bags are still having a moment. Dolce & Gabbana, Charlotte Olympia and Tory Burch have all offered recent takes, while Philippines-based accessories brand Aranaz is feted for its embellished versions. Not only classic in style, they’re practical enough for a trip to the beach or farmer’s market. The limited- edition Grey Goose Riviera bottle is available at Dan Murphy’s while stocks last.