New Caledonia is a French overseas territory in the southwest Pacific — the main island of Grande Terre with the capital Nouméa, and the Loyalty Islands (Lifou, Ouvéa, Maré) to the northeast, of which Ouvéa has one of the most celebrated beaches in the Pacific. The lagoon of New Caledonia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — the largest lagoon in the world enclosed by a coral barrier reef. The territory's French cultural character means that the social register of Nouméa is more closely aligned with mainland French standards than with the neighbouring Melanesian islands.

For Nouméa. The capital — the Baie des Citrons and the Anse Vata beach areas, the city centre shopping, the Tjibaou Cultural Centre (designed by Renzo Piano). A PP linen shirt in white or a warm natural with linen trousers or linen shorts and leather shoes for the Nouméa beach and city occasions. The French register of Nouméa rewards a composed wardrobe.

For the Loyalty Islands. Ouvéa — the island whose beach inspired the film Coup de Foudre à Notting Hill, with its 25-kilometre arc of white sand and turquoise water. White PP linen over natural swim shorts, leather sandals. The most naturally unspoiled context in New Caledonia, where the wardrobe should match the environment.

For the lagoon. The UNESCO World Heritage lagoon — snorkelling and boat trips across the clearest water in the Pacific. Natural swim shorts and a white PP linen shirt for the boat; leather deck shoes.

For the kanak cultural sites. The indigenous Kanak cultural heritage of Grande Terre and the Loyalty Islands — the Tjibaou Cultural Centre is the most accessible introduction. A composed PP linen wardrobe for the cultural visit.

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