There’s no icon more synonymous with Riviera elegance than Princess Grace of Monaco. Long before coastal chic became a hashtag, Grace Kelly was setting the gold standard for summer dressing along the sun-drenched promenades of the Côte d’Azur. From weekends in Provence to glamorous moments aboard yachts moored in Monte Carlo, her wardrobe exuded a kind of effortless sophistication—one that continues to inspire vacation style today.

A Legacy of Riviera Chic

After her marriage to H.S.H. Prince Rainier III in 1956, Grace embraced life in the principality with signature charm and a wardrobe to match. She favored breathable fabrics and classic silhouettes—crisp linen sundresses, sailor stripes, oversized sunglasses, and of course, the ever-iconic silk scarf tied just so. Her style struck a balance between regal and relaxed: polished yet perfectly suited to the languid pace of the Mediterranean coast.

Grace often chose neutral palettes softened by blush tones or Provençal pastels, pairing them with woven baskets or espadrilles for casual days, and wide-brimmed hats to shield her from the Riviera sun. Whether on palace grounds or strolling through the markets of Nice and Saint-Raphaël, she always embodied a kind of refined ease that never felt overdone.

Summer Styling Tips Inspired by Grace

1. The Power of a Statement Scarf
No Riviera look is complete without a silk ribbon scarf. Tie it around your ponytail, wear it as a headband, or knot it at the neck in true Grace fashion. A printed scarf is the ultimate nod to 1950s jet-set glam.

2. Embrace Lightweight Layers
Channel Grace’s warm-weather wardrobe with breezy linen co-ords or a flowing midi dress in ivory or soft peach. Add a belted waist to mimic her graceful silhouette, and finish with delicate gold jewelry.

3. Understated Accessories with Purpose
Opt for classic espadrilles or strappy leather sandals that can take you from a seaside lunch to an evening promenade. A woven straw bag adds Provençal charm and pairs effortlessly with sun hats and cat-eye sunglasses

Fragrance & Accessories: A Grace de Monaco Touch

To fully step into a Grace-inspired summer, fragrance is the finishing touch. The Grace de Monaco collection was created in homage to her legacy—capturing the beauty of the Riviera in every note.

• Promenade Sur Le Rocher is luminous and floral, with notes of rose centifolia, and bergamot, softened by freesia. Its base of musk, amber, and vanilla adds depth and elegance. The perfect scent for a morning in the market or a breezy terrace lunch—paired with linen separates and espadrilles.

• Ombre Sereine is a modern classic—elegant yet sun-warmed—with notes of pinkberry, mimosa, and bergamot opening into a heart of orris root, jasmine, ylang ylang, orange blossom, Turkish rose, and lavender absolute. The base lingers with soft leather, musk, and ambroxine. It's ideal for golden hour, worn with a silk scarf and soft, neutral layers for a look that feels both powerful and poetic.

Finish the look with Grace de Monaco’s minimalist, elegant sunglasses—such as the Mirabeau style with its softly inverted triangle lenses—for a modern reinterpretation of Grace’s Riviera glamour. Each pair combines form and function, much like the Princess herself.

A Modern Muse

Whether you’re planning a getaway to the French Riviera or simply dreaming of one, let Grace’s timeless style be your guide. From Provençal linens to perfumes that linger like a sea breeze, the Grace de Monaco aesthetic brings a touch of principality polish to your summer wardrobe.

After all, true elegance never goes out of style.