Packing For Cannes: 10 Must-Haves For The Glamorous Film Festival

Pull out those carry-ons because summer travel season is nearly upon us.  But before Euros go scampering off during the month of August (for which stateside folks are sufficiently jealous) there’s the early hop to the Cannes Film Festival kicking off on May 11.  It may not quite be the peak of travel season (translation: chillier during the days than your prototypical vacances), but surely the sheer number of stars strolling about the Cote d’Azur town will be enough dazzling heat. Suitably, for the “flora and fauna,” we’re going with all French brands to pack in that Louis Vuitton trolley.  Here’s our top ten items to keep up with the likes of Uma Thurman and Jude Law (both festival jurors this year).

10. A properly jet-set bathing suit

Travel like old Hollywood  and spend all day at Palm Beach – the late Elizabeth Taylor used to while away the hours on the famous plage. Eres Paris Évasion two-piece bikini, available at Eres stores worldwide.

9. Sunscreen

It may be the early season, but optimists may arrive to find the sun shining overhead. Keep in line with the francois theme by slathering on our favorite native sunscreen. Clarins Sunscreen Spray Gentle Milk-Lotion Progressive Tanning, SPF 20, $32 at Sephora.com

8. Polished Flats

Forget sloppy flip flops. Try a pair of K. Jacques flats hailing from neighboring St. Tropez instead. The French heritage brand is making a strong worldwide comeback with minimal shapes and appealing selection of everyday neutral hues.  K. Jacques St. Tropez Tarta Pyr Sandals, $165, at MyTheresa.com.

7.  Hermes Scarf

We may not all have Birkin collections like Victoria Beckham, but a dose of classic French luxury is always a nice touch. For a more wallet-friendly option, try a silk twill scarf from Hermes. This Din-Tini print in mint green and sea blue is particularly appropriate to match the very blue Mediterranean waters. Hermes Din-Tini Hand-Rolled Silk Twill Scarf, $385, at Hermes.com.

6. A Brigitte Bardot-Inspired Onesie

Arguably the long-standing South of France style icon, Brigitte Bardot’s sexy look is still the gold standard. The gap-toothed actress once gallivanted around town in teensy playsuits.  Prepare to bare some leg in this modern-day version, a Liberty floral print by French contemporary brand A.P.C. Beach Jumpsuit in Turquoise Floral Print by A.P.C., $235, at APC.fr.

5. A Nautical Pull-Over

We are seaside after all. Throw on some classic sailor stripes by Saint James, a Normandy-based line, when the sun starts to dip just below the horizon. Saint James Unisex Striped Meridien Cotton Pull-over, $85, at JCrew.com.

4. Mystery-Inducing Sunnies

Covertly people-watch behind an oversize pair of sunnies.  We like this tortoiseshell version by this cult, celebrity-favorite French sunglass designer; Madonna has been spotted in his wares. Thierry Lasry Tortoiseshell Lingery Sunglasses, $555.83, at Asos.com

3. A French Chic Cocktail Dress

Go from the beach to an indie flick screening, by swapping your bikini for a chic frock. This polka-dotted number by Sonia by Sonia Rykiel has a jaunty bow for that je ne sais quoi allure. Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Silk Blend Polka Dot Dress, $495, at Net-a-Porter.com.

2. Leg-Lengthening Wedges

While we suspect most ladies will be teetering in their Louboutins, we prefer to stand out in the crowd with Parisian talent Pierre Hardy. The Frenchman strikes a polished balance between luxury and the futuristic in this stylish yet comfy wedge. Pierre Hardy Striped Wedges, $885, at Barneys New York.

1. The Perfect Pout

A beauty standby of the bourgeoisie, nothing quite says effortless glam like a perfectly pink lip. Channel Vanessa Paradis in Chanel’s new sheer lipstick in the universally wearable Boy shade. Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Boy, $32, at Chanel.com.

By: Bee-Shyuan Chang