What to wear in Provence | history of fashion in the South of France

One example of traditional Provençal dress can be seen in the costume of the women from Menton, a town near the Italian border. These women wore striped skirts, often in red and white, paired with embroidered black shawls and aprons. A distinctive wide-brimmed hat, commonly seen across Provence, was also part of their attire. These hats were practical, designed to be clipped to the waistband when not in use, allowing the women to keep their hands free as they went about their daily tasks. The skirts were typically heavy and quilted, providing warmth in winter, though how they coped with the summer heat remains a mystery.

Another fascinating aspect of Provençal fashion history is the origin of denim. The fabric, now ubiquitous in wardrobes worldwide, can trace its roots back to the town of Nîmes in the sixteenth century. The word "denim" is derived from "de Nîmes," meaning "from Nîmes," while the term "jean" comes from "Gênes," the French name for Genoa, Italy, where the fabric was traded. The durable twill from Nîmes was later used by Levi Strauss to create the first pair of jeans, a garment that has become a global icon.

Provence is also known for its boutis quilting, an intricate embroidery technique that became popular in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. This method, characterised by raised motifs, was particularly popular in Provence, where it was used to create everything from clothing to bedspreads. Today, La Maison du Boutis in Calvisson continues to showcase this traditional craft through its museum and workshops. Provence’s influence on fashion extends beyond textiles to the world of haute couture. Christian Lacroix, born in Arles, drew inspiration from the bright colours and rich traditions of his native region. His designs were celebrated for their boldness and innovation, deeply rooted in the history and character of the South of France. Another famous designer, Simon Porte Jacquemus, also hails from Provence. Known for his fresh, playful designs, Jacquemus often incorporates elements of his Provençal heritage into his collections, which he has showcased in various locations across the region, from the lavender fields of Valensole to the salt flats of Salin-de-Giraud.

Provence's long history of textile production is closely linked to its position on the Mediterranean. Marseille, a major port city, was a gateway for fabrics and goods arriving from the East. In the sixteenth century, the city became known for its production of indiennes, vibrant printed cotton fabrics that were highly sought after by the European nobility. Although production was banned for a time to protect other French textile industries, indiennes remained popular, and today, the Souleiado museum in Tarascon offers insights into this fascinating chapter of Provençal fashion history.