Clare V., a brand that encapsulates French style, is the product of an American woman who grew up in Minnesota and now lives in Los Angeles. But after reading Clare Vivier’s new Rizzoli book, La Vie de Clare V., this all makes sense. Fifteen years ago, Vivier debuted an elegant, no-nonsense clutch that became the foundation of an accessories-and-clothing house and was sold all over the world. Informed by the sensibilities of American prep and Gallic elegance—her husband, Thierry Vivier, is originally from France—Clare V.’s focus on utility also explains its success. On the occasion of her book’s publication, Vivier shares her key components to the good life. —Ashley Baker
Airline: Delta.
Airport: I’m a creature of habit, so LAX and CDG.
Alibi: “Check the flight manifest.”
App: Instagram.
Bag: The simple luxury of my La Tropezienne.
Bedtime: 10 p.m. when alone, midnight when Thierry is home.
Bike: Linus x Clare V.
Birthday: January 8. Elvis, Bowie, Carolina Herrera, and me!
Breakfast, weekday: Coffee and a piece of whole-grain toast with peanut butter and a dash of Maldon salt.
Breakfast, weekend: Coffee and a fried egg on a corn tortilla with Hot Mama Salsa.
Car: Electric.
Child: My Okkieboo.
Cocktail: A G&T by Annie Campbell or French red wine.
Cocktail appetizer: Saucisson or olives.
Couple: Steak and frites.
Date: An early-bird walk on Sunday night to La Pharmacie du Vin, in Silver Lake, in Los Angeles, or a Saturday-night dinner at Jour de Fête in Valennes, near our house in France.
