ST TROPEZ, FRANCE
The vibe: It’s not much changed from the Eighties, but there is something quite comforting about that. The yachts might have got a little bigger, the bling, blingier… but then who doesn’t want to spot Joan Collins from across the crudités at Le Club 55?
However, if you can’t get a table at Pampelonne’s oldest Dame, then the next door joint, Cap 21, offers a very good vantage point for spotting who is being offloaded on to the jetty.
Style here is reassuringly classic – if you can face the Saturday market, you will find a swarm of Breton tops, Hurlingham types in hotly coloured chino shorts and espadrilles surrounding you.
Just embrace the stripes, but maybe try an Hermès/accessorise scarf around one’s head for a Jackie O touch. A strategic drop of glamour is every woman’s weapon of choice on this coast.
Carry on: An Away children’s suitcase makes a very good vanity: don’t forget to add in at least one change of clothes in case of suitcase delivery emergencies.
Beached: A Louis Vuitton monogrammed tote is the towel bag choice of most; but given that you are in the land of peak-basket, something simple and local will easily suffice. Do add a giant pair of bug sunglasses, though, for an “Isn’t that what’s her name?” mystique. Sunny printed kaftans or crisp white cotton frocks (see Sienna, left) are far classier than the sheer beaded ponchos favoured by the Surrey-on-sea regulars.
After dark: Something bright and cheerful to set off your tan (faux or otherwise) – Martha Ward’s dress here (second left) is ideal – try Zara for an homage.
Don’t forget:
Croissant crumbs are not an ideal look if you’re trying to style out a café au lait in Senequier.
Do pick up: Hamam beach towels (striped, obvs), now with extra fun pom poms, from the market and everywhere. Very helpful for throwing over everything.