A postcard from the Côte d'Azur

For the next five weeks, Nettement Chic invites you to join us on a magical (virtual) summer holiday courtesy of a selection of our favourite e-shops. Destination number one: the Côte d'Azur with Carine Pastor, founder of The Astor.

Nettement Chic (NC): Why the Côte d’Azur and since when?
Carine Pastor (CP): I lived in Cannes between the ages of 5 and 18 and then in Nice where I was a law student for 5 years. Every summer I go back for a real family holiday with my friends and their children as most of our parents are still there. And when you know the Côte d'Azur well, you don't even notice the bling bling side of it. It's just a fantastic place for a holiday. 

NC : What are your tips for a nettement chic day on the Côte d’Azur ?
CP : In the morning first thing I head to the rue d'Antibes in Cannes for some shopping while it's still quiet. I always go to Taizo for perfume and to Loup 47 for shoes.

Next stop, the beach. I have two favourites: the Garoupe beaches at Cap d'Antibes which still have an untouched beauty and perfectly clear water. Or for a more family feel, Bijou Plage in Cannes where we have been going forever with parents, children and grandparents. You have to try the local speciality, a "Pan Bagnat" made by Giselle at her kiosk on the beach!

And at the end of the day we head to the terrace of the Belles Rives hotel in Juan Les Pins for an apéritif. I am a big fan of the art deco architecture of this hotel where I got married last year. 

Then for dinner, don't miss Mamo au Michelangelo in Antibes old town. Mamo is a Côte d'Azur nightlife legend and his Rigatoni Polpetta washed down with Domaine Ott Rosé are to die for! 

NC : What is the essential Côte d'Azur item of clothing?  

CP : One is not enough! My essentials would be : 
- The Astor beach bag, which I can't live without on holiday
- The Hawaï dress by Masscob for perfect Cannes chic
- A pair of Princess Maïa sandals by Patricia blanchet for a touch of bling!