In partnership with Zimmermann
As summer settles in in the northern hemisphere, there’s really only one place to be – the South of France. After the glamour of Cannes Film Festival, the seaside destination was desperate for some more laidback charm, and who does that better than the Australians?
To welcome summer on the Mediterranean, Zimmermann invited friends of the House to Antibes for a multi-day celebration of its High Summer collection that ignited all the senses. What began with a sunset cocktails and dinner at Hotel Belles Rives – completed by a live performance by none other than Suki Waterhouse – folded naturally into lunch the following day at Jean Pigozzi’s iconic home, otherwise known as Villa Dorane. And who better to let us in on the action than Australian-American actor Leila George?
From her Zimmermann holiday wardrobe essentials to her travel rituals and the sentimental connection she has with the South of France, here George shares her personal postcards from her time away. A travel diary so good you can almost taste it!
Was this your first time in Antibes, or do you already have a relationship with the South of France?
I’ve been lucky enough to visit a couple of times. The first time was in 1994 when I was two years old. My Mum was here for the Cannes Film Festival, I have a picture of me in my floaties at Villa Dorane where we had the Zimmermann pool party. Crazy. I love it when these little synchronicities from the past pop up.
You arrived into Antibes at the very beginning of summer – does a place ever change your mood immediately when you land?
Oh definitely. Whenever I land in Sydney I immediately feel like I’m home. I get the urge to kiss the ground. (I don’t.) Landing in the South of France feels immediately like a vacation. A glamorous one!
Was there a particular Zimmermann piece you kept gravitating back towards throughout the trip?
I love anything I can throw on over bathers to go down to the beach. I have one of the Zimmermann kimonos that’s great for that and immediately elevates any bikini look.
Which look from the trip felt the most like you the moment you put it on?
I like my Zimmermann tie-dye shirt for a more chill vibe. I love a loose button up. I tie it at the waist, super easy to have on hand if you want to go straight from beach to lunch. And it’s so light weight, perfect for the Riviera sun.
What’s the first thing you do when you arrive in a hotel room to make it feel like yours?
Unpack! Even if it’s just for a couple of days. I like to get everything out. Sometimes I’ll even bring a candle. I like my spaces to smell familiar. My go to is Teakwood and Tobacco by PF. Candle.
What’s been the best part of slowing down for a few days here?
Slowing down?! It’s been a non stop party! The Zimmermann team never fail to show you the best time ever, they are incredible hosts. I’ve had so much fun.
Did you fall into any little rituals while you were here – morning swims, late walks, ordering the same thing every day? What’s your ideal way to spend a free afternoon in Antibes?
Beach. Spritz. A good book.
Is there a hidden gem from the trip you almost want to gatekeep?
How wonderful and fun and interesting and gorgeous and irresistible and sexy all the other girls on the trip were. I guess that’s not a “hidden” gem but they are gems and I want to keep them all to myself.
Tell me about the atmosphere at the Belle Rives dinner.
One of the most incredible sunsets I’ve ever seen. The sky was on fire. The waves almost took us into the sea. It was a gorgeous evening that ended on the dance floor.
What does a genuinely memorable dinner party look like to you?
When you find yourself swapping seats and moving around because each guest is someone you want to sit with and chat to.
What were your first impression walking into Villa Dorane.
It was like a fairy picnic.
What’s one small luxury you never properly appreciate until you’re travelling?
My silk pillowcases. I bring them with me.
What’s your relationship to dressing while travelling – do you become more instinctive with style when you’re away from home?
When I’m home I kind of have a uniform of jeans and a t-shirt. When I’m traveling I go all out… and usually have at least one outfit change a day.
Is there a specific image from this trip you already know will stay with you?
Seeing people laughing and having fun all day every day…. dressed impeccably.
If you had to send one postcard home from Antibes, what would it say?
I’m sorry you missed it!
