What to Wear in Nice in Spring
EST. READING TIME: 7 MIN
IN THIS GUIDE ✺
Abstract Aesthetics
Crochet Creations
Pastel Pieces
Boho Boxers
Beach Bags
Strappy Sandals
Nestled along the stunning Côte d'Azur, the city of Nice beckons with its mesmerizing azure waters, artistic atmosphere, and historic coastal charm that captures the essence of a quintessential Mediterranean escape. As the fifth-largest city in France, Nice offers an inviting mix of relaxed seaside appeal and bustling market life, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.
Upon arrival, the city's beauty unfolds in layers — from the famed Promenade des Anglais lining the pebbly shores of the glistening bay to the quaint, winding streets of the Old Town. Here, the air is perfumed with the scent of freshly baked socca and the saturated colors of local produce and flowers at the Cours Saleya market. Nice's allure is not merely in its picturesque setting but in its ability to seamlessly blend whispers of the old with striking nods to the new.
The city's rich history is palpable, with influences from both Italian and French sovereignties evident in its architecture and cuisine. Yet, it's the city’s contemporary spirit, marked by its dynamic art scene, world-class museums like the Musée Matisse and Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art Contemporain, and annual events like the Carnaval de Nice, that truly define its vibrant character. As a cultural hub, Nice continues to celebrate its heritage while always looking forward, making it an endlessly fascinating place to explore.
Visitors to Nice are also treated to a culinary journey, with options ranging from haute cuisine in opulent settings like La Rotonde to charming bistros like Chez Pipo serving local specialties. The city’s gastronomy is a reflection of its Mediterranean location, emphasizing fresh seafood, olive oil, and vegetables that burst with flavor under the Provençal sun. For those planning to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of Nice, understanding what to wear and pack is crucial. The city's Mediterranean climate, coupled with its varied activities from beach lounging to museum hopping, calls for a thoughtful packing list that ensures comfort while embracing the bold local style.
Spring Climate in Nice
April in Nice is a delightful time, embodying the mild and pleasant characteristics of spring on the French Riviera. During this month, the city begins to shake off the mild chill of winter, welcoming warmer days with average temperatures ranging from a comfortable 50°F (10°C) at night to around 61°F (16°C) during the day. Rainfall is moderate compared to other seasons, with occasional showers that bring a refreshing change to the salty coastal air.
This period avoids the peak tourist season's hustle and bustle, offering a more relaxed atmosphere for exploring the city. It’s also a safe distance from the summer's extreme heat and the crowded beaches that follow. Visitors in April will find it perfect for leisurely strolls along the Promenade des Anglais or through the vibrant markets without the sweltering heat that comes in the later months.
There are no extreme weather events like hurricanes to worry about in Nice, making spring an ideal time for travel. However, it's wise to pack for slightly cooler evenings, especially if you plan to enjoy the nightlife or waterfront dining at Le Plongeoir where ocean breezes can be more pronounced.
What to Wear in Nice?
Abstract Aesthetics
When you wander the artistic avenues of Nice, donning pieces that can be considered wearable art allows you to not only fit into the local creative scene, but also stand out amongst an already saturated environment. The city, known for its vibrant art museums and galleries, mirrors this artistic passion in the street style of its residents. To embody the modern art scene, choose clothing with bold abstract prints, dynamic shapes, and a palette that challenges the norm. Think of dresses with swirling patterns, avant-garde shaped blouses, or jackets that play with asymmetry and mixed materials. These pieces should evoke the feeling of walking through a live gallery, each item reflective of the creativity found around every corner in Nice. By incorporating such elements, your wardrobe is not just a personal style statement but a homage to the city's rich artistic heritage, making you blend beautifully into the backdrop of this aesthetically lush destination.
Crochet Creations
Crochet is the perfect textile for the temperate climate of Nice in spring. As you enjoy the sunny days by the Mediterranean, wearing crochet offers both style and practicality. Crochet dresses, tops, or even accessories like hats and bags allow for constant airflow, keeping you cool as the sun climbs higher throughout the afternoon. The intricate loops and patterns of crochet garments are also reminiscent of the laid-back, artisanal vibe of the city. Select pieces in natural, light colors to reflect the coastal serenity, or opt for vibrant hues to stand out against the softer tones of the city’s architecture. These creations are not only functional for the climate but also add a textural element to your ensemble, perfect for a leisurely day of café-hopping or a serene stroll along the Promenade des Anglais.
Pastel Pieces
The soft color palette of Nice architecture, from its iconic terracotta rooftops to the pastel fronts of the old town, complements soft-hued clothing perfectly. Wearing pastel pieces such as light pink trousers, sky blue shirts, or lavender dresses can enhance your overall look by aligning with the city’s colorway. These colors work well in the sunny setting, reflecting light and keeping you cooler than dark colors which absorb heat more quickly. Moreover, pastels are versatile enough for day-to-night transitions in Nice, suitable for both casual daytime explorations and more refined evening outings. They also make for stunning photographs against the colorful, picturesque backgrounds of the city, ensuring that you not only feel good but also look memorable in your travel flicks.
Boho Boxers
Boho boxers offer a unique blend of comfort and style, making them an excellent choice for the casual yet chic atmosphere of Nice. These shorts, characterized by their loose fit and vibrant patterns, paired with a matching button-down can create a playful, androgynous look ideal for exploring the city's artsy enclaves or relaxing on its beaches. Opt for lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton to stay cool and comfortable throughout the day. The boho style resonates with the city’s laid-back, artistic vibe and encourages a sense of adventure and ease, perfect for those looking to imbibe the spirit of the French Riviera while maintaining a distinctive style aligned with the current fashion trends of today.
Beach Bags
A large woven straw tote is essential for anyone visiting Nice. These bags are not only practical, capable of holding everything from your market finds to beach essentials, but they also add a chic beachy element to your ensemble. Choose a tote with durable handles and perhaps a closure to keep your belongings secure as you navigate the bustling streets or sandy shores. The texture and natural material of the bag complement the Mediterranean landscape, seamlessly integrating with both urban and seaside outfits. A well-chosen beach bag serves as the perfect accessory for a day spent soaking in the Riviera sun, whether you are shopping in Cours Saleya or lounging at Plage Beau Rivage.
Strappy Sandals
For navigating the charming yet sometimes uneven streets of Nice, strappy sandals provide the perfect blend of elegance and practicality. These sandals should have a secure fit, perhaps with adjustable straps, to ensure comfort throughout days of walking. Choose a pair with a cushioned sole for extra support, allowing you to explore everything from the Colline du Château to the Villa Masséna Museum without discomfort. The style can range from simple and elegant to bold and decorative, depending on your personal taste and the rest of your outfit choices. Not only do they keep your feet cool, but they also elevate your outfit, ensuring you look as stylish as the locals.
How I Styled Nice Outfits
With two days to spend in the strikingly colorful coastal town of Nice, I knew I wanted to go all out with both my outfits. On the first day of strolling around Old Town, I opted to wear:
Random Motives Viscose Blend Mini Dress ($43) from NA-KD, which features a multicolor abstract doodle print on a flowy asymmetrical mini dress. The self-tie shoulder straps allow you to play around with the shape of the neckline and the hi-lo hem means you could even wear this piece as a dynamic top over neutral trousers! The whimsical pattern of faces, animals, and inanimate objects come to life felt like the perfect reflection of the vibrant energy of the town while the breezy material was perfectly suited for the sunny day!
I accessorized with a round pair of orange-framed Free People glasses ($30) from last season for an added bold and beachy touch.
Not pictured are my go-to leather strappy shoes: my tan and champagne pair of Reef Sandals Cushion Bounce Vista Womens ($55). After purchasing these years ago on a beach vacation to Hawaii they have become my tried and true coastal shoe, since the high-energy rebound footbed and anatomical arch support keep my feet comfortable throughout a full day of sightseeing, while the waterproof materials let me transition from city to sand in a snap!
My final accessory was a nude Small Woven Crossbody bag ($120) from Ligne Blanche made of a lightweight neoprene material which mimics the aesthetic of a woven straw tote while having the added benefit of a bit more durability and versatility for use on the beach or strolling along Promenade des Anglais.
My second day crafting perfumes at Molinard led me to select:
Crochet Knitted Thin Strap Maxi Dress ($26) from NA-KD. This sleeveless brown maxi dress features a crochet sunflower design with a bodycon fit and back slit detail to exude casual elegance and reflect the natural colors of coastal elements. If you can’t tell yet, I’m a huge fan of NA-KD for affordable, yet high-quality pieces with touches of artistic flair that are perfect for vacation outfits! The lightweight cotton fabric kept me quite cool with exposed gaps in the crochet pattern–on this particular 63°F day it was even a bit too cool and I opted to wear a Forever 21 denim jacket on top of my ensemble for added warmth.
I accessorized with sky blue-tinted Wavey Palms Oasis aviator sunglasses ($35) for an added cerulean dash of French Riviera chic.
Understanding the local fashion sensibilities in Nice is not just about blending in; it's about appreciating and respecting the local culture. The Riviera’s fashion is deeply influenced by its history as a luxury resort destination, where leisure meets elegance. This is reflected in the laid-back yet chic attire that is omnipresent in the boutiques dotting Avenue Jean Médecin. The artistic and vibrant atmosphere of Nice, heightened by its iconic art museums and galleries, encourages a bold approach to fashion. Wearing abstract and eye-catching designs pays homage to the artists who have found inspiration here, such as Matisse and Chagall.
Crochet creations and pastel pieces speak to the city’s love for artisanal beauty and the soft palate of its landscape. Meanwhile, practical items like beach bags and durable sandals are nods to the pragmatic aspects of daily life in a seaside city, where functionality needs to meet style to accommodate an active, outdoor-focused lifestyle. By choosing outfits that echo these elements, visitors not only show respect for the local customs and lifestyle but also enhance their own experience of the city. Dressing appropriately is a form of cultural engagement, enabling visitors to immerse themselves fully in the life and rhythm of Nice.
