Although you can’t tell by the current torrential rain in Los Angeles, we are soon approaching spring–the perfect time for a visit to your local farmer’s market for flowers and fruit, or just a day at the beach. In my family, the best bag for these occasions is a simple French market tote. We’ve picked them up on trips while in France, at boutiques in California’s wine country, and even at local flea markets. They’re practical, well made, and look like you’ve been on a recent trip to Europe, even when you haven’t. You can find them with different color straps straps, monogrammed, and even repurposed as a backpack.

Now you can combine a love of simple luxury with an appreciation for luxury labels. With its Cruise 2017 collection, Balenciaga created the Bistrot Panier bag, a classic market tote with sophisticated updates. The bag is available with accents in either red or green, and is made in sizes small and medium.

$1135/medium. Made in Italy.

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