On the footsteps of Coco Chanel on Juan les Pins

Andreea Bondoc
Sparkling mornings
Published in
3 min readJul 1, 2023

These summer stories will be documented on Instagram So, follow me for more @andreeabondocc

Juan les Pins

“It is always better to be slightly underdressed,” once said the iconic Coco Chanel, a woman who revolutionized the world of fashion and redefined elegance.

Her words echoed through time, beckoning me to embark on a remarkable journey. With a heart filled with curiosity and a desire to unravel the tales woven into the fabric of history, I found myself walking in the footsteps of Chanel in the enchanting town of Juan les Pins.

As I ventured through the sun-kissed streets and along the picturesque coastline, a vivid story unfolded before my eyes. In the bygone era of the roaring twenties, Coco Chanel bestowed upon the world the concept of pajama parties, infusing them with a touch of sophistication and allure. It was here, in the vibrant resort town of Juan les Pins, where she nurtured this unique social gathering, transforming the humble pajamas into a symbol of fashionable leisure.

Immersing myself in the history of those legendary soirées, I discovered hidden gems tucked away in the glamorous hotels that once hosted illustrious personalities like Jules Verne, Ernest Hemingway, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. These grand establishments served as the backdrop for unforgettable gatherings and opulent parties, echoing with the laughter and conversations of artists, writers, and visionaries.

With each step, the past whispered its secrets to me. The streets came alive with the echoes of jazz music, cascading from open windows and inviting passersby to join in the revelry. The scent of salty sea air mingled with the fragrance of blooming flowers, creating an atmosphere of freedom and liberation.

Envisioning Chanel’s audacity and her unique sense of style, I found myself drawn to the very shores where she brought her pajamas into the daylight. Breaking boundaries and challenging convention, she dared to wear these traditionally indoor garments as chic beachwear. As I strolled along the golden sands, I couldn’t help but admire the courage it took to transform societal norms and pave the way for a new era of fashion.

For those who follow in the footsteps of the literary giants and the fashion trailblazers, Juan les Pins offers a captivating blend of history and modernity. The grand hotels that once hosted extravagant parties still stand, eager to welcome new adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the spirit of a bygone era. These hallowed halls echo with the memories of past festivities, awaiting the arrival of new stories, new laughter, and new dreams.

So, come and discover my story, and let us unravel the threads of history together. Walk in the footsteps of Chanel, embrace the allure of pajama parties, and relish the vibrant ambiance that still lingers in the air. Juan les Pins is a place where time transcends, where the past dances with the present, and where dreams and legends intertwine in a symphony of elegance and beauty.

--

--

Andreea Bondoc
Sparkling mornings

Entrepreneur, traveler and a storyteller to leave a legacy in words.