It’s not often that you get to spend the day with your favorite movie star or author, but when it comes to hanging out with our favorite handbag designer, we lucked out. Clare Vivier is the mastermind behind her eponymous line of clutches, messenger bags and totes – think simple, classic shapes in perfect colors, prints and monograms. CV bags are favorites among fashionable ladies and street-style stars all over the country, and to carry one around is the mark of someone who has a true appreciation for beautiful things that transcend hype and seasonal trends.
Clare’s approach to cooking and entertaining is much like her approach to design: easy, crowd-pleasing recipes that take inspiration from here and there. Maybe it’s a passed-down recipe for ratatouille or vinaigrette, or perhaps it’s some granola and almond milk. For parties, it’s all about fresh, unfussy food that looks beautiful on her outdoor table (set with Heath linens and dishes – plus fresh fruit and dahlias, no less!). Any way you slice it, Clare’s kitchen is as warm and wonderful as she is – and as inspiring and lovely as her must-have fall clutches and duffels!
What’s a typical daily diet for you: “Yesterday I had oatmeal with yogurt for breakfast. Almonds and maybe just a couple corn chips for a snack. Kale salad, green bean salad and chicken from Forage for lunch. Cheese and a sliced apple when I get home from work for a snack. And for dinner a beef stew my husband made.”
Entertaining go-to: “Salads, grilled vegetables, a grilled meat, and a plentiful cheese/charcuterie plate.”
Dinner on a busy night: “Salad with my husband’s mother’s vinaigrette and a grilled meat.”
Quick breakfast: “Grape Nuts or granola in yogurt.”
Usual workout: “I work out in the park 3 times a week with a trainer. Then I take hikes in Griffith or Elysian parks on the other days.”
Necessary indulgence: “Red wine or chips and salsa.”
Favorite recipe: “My mother-in-law’s ratatouille.”
Favorite cookbook: “Magazines. Right now it’s Bon Appetit under Adam Rapoport.”
Kitchen gadget: “Citrus juicer.”
Pantry essential: “Salt.”
Ingredient that makes everything taste better: “SALT!”
