We’ve been watching far too many films set in the South of France lately, and can you blame us? After an umpteenth viewing of Contempt, we’re jonesing for a new canvas bag, preferably one that looks like it once belonged to Brigitte Bardot’s character. One such tote: this beauty from Rue de Verneuil. (It’s a new brand from designer Vincent Ribat, whose name nods to a street in the Seventh Arrondissement of Paris.) Made of patchwork stripes, the design is reminiscent of a beach chair and it’s highly functional—it looks best when working hard, toting your books and groceries around town. ($162, matchesfashion.com)
Skirt
Tiger Queen
Like the rest of America, we’re in a Tiger King state of mind. Is Carole Baskin a style icon? No, but her look (including those waist-length locks) has permeated our subconscious, rendering this leopard-print skirt from French brand La Prestic Ouiston irresistible. Why it works: it’s silk twill (so not too shiny), the length is modest, and the monochrome color palette prevents the print’s tendency toward garishness. Bonus points for the contrasting trim and 40s-era silhouette. But whatever you do, do not pair it with a matching bicycle—a crisp white button-up or fitted tee is best. ($451, matchesfashion.com)
Button Up
Balenciaga
Our recipe for style success (Zoom edition): a bold lipstick, good lighting, the Touch Up My Appearance filter, and a seriously smart blazer. When it comes to that last item, you’ve got options, but our ideal is this strong-shouldered jacket from Balenciaga. Made in Italy from a gray Prince of Wales check, it gets its gravitas from peak lapels and 80s-rific padded structuring. It makes you feel absolutely ready to get down to business. And it’s a true classic that we promise you’ll be wearing for many seasons to come. ($2,490; matchesfashion.com)
Polish
TenOverTen
When is the last time you gave yourself a proper manicure? Memory fails? TenOverTen, your Air Mail style correspondent’s preferred nail salon, is temporarily closed, but its e-commerce shop remains open, and as we entered isolation, we promptly placed an order. The essentials are base coat, top coat, and two polishes (we’re partial to Bowery, a brick red, and Canal, a milky hazelnut), and restorative hand cream. All in all, we spent less than the cost of one of their Luxe Pedicures, and while the results were not quite salon-worthy, they could be much, much worse. Until we meet again, dear manicurists … ($12 for polish, $26 for the Nail Care System, consisting of top and base coats, tenoverten.com)