We first discovered Royal Jelly Harlem through their masks, which are among the best-fitting we’ve found. But then we quickly fell for the brand’s ready-to-wear, designed by mother-daughter duo Teta and Maya Gorgoni and inspired by their trips to West and South Africa. The collection includes sharply designed dresses, blouses, jackets, and more for both men and women, made entirely in New York from 100 percent cotton fabrics. With its structured bodice and full skirt (with hidden pockets!), the Angeline in Kenya dress is an easy and stylish solution to nights on the town. Mask sold separately. (dress, $295, royaljellyharlem.com; mask, $15, royaljellyharlem.com)
The Hair Mask
Leonor Greyl Paris
Between the ocean and chlorinated pools, summertime swims are the most destructive on the hair. So, if there was ever a time to try a hair mask, it is now. After extensive (and expensive) research, we have identified a new must-have, thanks to a few Parisians in our lives: the Masque à l’Orchidée, from Leonor Greyl Paris. Full of plant ceramides to straighten hair, as well as silk proteins and botanical oils to improve shine and flexibility, it left our hair tangle-free, moisturized, and downright glossy for the first time since … well, our last visit to the salon, back in February. Has it really been that long? ($65, net-a-porter.com)
The Bodysuit
Norma Kamali
If a one-piece scares you, hear us out. Are you happy with the tees you’ve been pairing with your favorite summer skirts? Do you honestly like the tanks you’ve been layering under your jackets and sweaters? Norma Kamali, who has been in the business for more than 50 years, has nailed a well-fitting, comfortable, and elegant bodysuit, making it a wardrobe essential. Yes, that’s right: essential. Because, beautiful shape aside (who doesn’t love a ballerina-esque scooped neck?), you’ll end up reaching for this stretch-jersey leotard more than you ever imagined possible. Think of it as an elevated T-shirt, one that would never reveal your midriff or, heaven forbid, come untucked at an inopportune time. ($135, matchesfashion.com)
The Shoulder Bag
Bottega Veneta
This item will probably be sold out by the time you’re reading this, but it’s a risk we’re willing to take. Ever since Daniel Lee arrived at the storied Italian brand, Bottega Veneta has been among the hottest things in fashion, and for very good reason. First and foremost, he reimagined its signature intrecciato technique, developed in the 70s, in all sorts of clever ways. For the moment, we’re partial to the “Fold” style, made of dark-brown leather—an on-trend alternative to basic black—that is small enough to be efficient but large enough to carry all of the essentials. Wear it long or short, up to you—just knot the slim strap wherever you like. ($2,000; net-a-porter.com)
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