In his new book, former managing director for Conde Nast Britain Albert Read explores how imagination, like a muscle, can be trained. The Imagination Muscle, part memoir, part self-help, part history book, teaches techniques for enhancing creativity in daily life—such as how to carefully observe our surroundings or mindfully tune in to our thoughts. With examples ranging from Leonardo da Vinci to Lin-Manuel Miranda, Read demonstrates how we can all become more innovative, productive, and perhaps even happier with just a little imagination. ($18.99, amazon.com) —Carolina de Armas

Required reading for jewelry lovers: The Van Cleef & Arpels Collection (1906–1953) is the first in a two-volume publication dedicated to an inventory, scientific study, and celebration of nearly 700 jewels, objects, and watchmaking pieces. In addition to striking photography, the book includes 200 archival documents that provide insight into the craftsmanship and provenance of the Maison’s pieces. The story begins in 1906, when the first boutique opened at 22 Place Vendôme, in Paris, and ends, for now, just before the 1954 launch of a new store concept geared toward ornamental stones and gold. Yes, the book is an encyclopedia of very fine gems, but it also provides fresh insight into jewelry as an art form—one that has interacted with the broader culture in all sorts of unexpected ways. ($406.95, exedre.leslibraires.ca) —Ashley Baker

As much as minimalism has made it onto our Instagram feeds and into our closets, the aesthetic hasn’t quite hit the swimwear market yet. Every bathing suit includes some cocktail of underwire, glitter, nylon, and buckles. Even when it is achieved, simplicity comes at a price—Eres comes to mind here. If your style is more My Brilliant Friend than it is Spring Breakers, don’t fret: Lido offers classic yet contemporary silhouettes. Though the brand takes its name from the Venetian island where it was founded, in 2017, Lido produces its sustainable garments in Northern Italy. Don’t miss a special summer collaboration with the Parisian brand Soeur on a toffee-, eggplant-, and pistachio-colored capsule. (from $340, lido.com) —Jeanne Malle

Sita Nevado’s eponymous, Barcelona-based costume-jewelry brand started off in 2011 as a one-woman operation. A decade later, it became a family-run business when her two twentysomething daughters, Claudia and Carlota, joined the team. The Nevados’ jewelry is crafted sustainably with mixed, reworked materials and is produced in small batches. Their earrings, rings, and necklaces are alluring and colorful statement pieces that often verge on the extravagant, but are made for everyday use—I wore the Bahia necklace to the office last week. ($228, sitanevado.com) —Carolina de Armas

In 1605, Francesco and Giuseppe Giusti set up wooden barrels in the attic of their home in Modena to make the first batch of their thick and slightly sweet balsamic vinegar. From there, they established the family company, Giusti Balsamic Vinegars of Modena, and passed down the recipe for 17 generations. We at AIR MAIL like Giusti’s Traditional Balsamic “Affinato.” Aged for 12 years and sold in a charming wooden box with a plush red casing, it’s a splurge worth taking. ($92, giusti.com) —Elena Clavarino

Charleston, South Carolina, is a charming choice for a weekend getaway. You will need a place to stay, and the Pinch should be at the top of your list. The understated and private 25-room property is centrally located on the landmark corner of King and George Streets in the walkable heart of the city. The rooms are spacious and well appointed, with craftsman furniture and antique rugs. They also feature proper kitchens, in-room laundry services, and bold, hand-painted wallpaper. The Southern charm is complimentary. (from $529, thepinch.com) —Chris Black