The last time someone compared you to a French cow, did you thank him politely?

We should hope not. But change is afoot, thanks to La Maison d’Artiga, a secret gem of a shop in Parsons Green.

The Artiga family produces colourful linen wares at their mill in the Basque region of France. And their store is brimming with everything from aprons to oven gloves to deck chairs — perfect for bringing some continental soleil to the London summer.

The must-have item? Their espadrille — the most authentic version of the rope-soled shoe this side of Biarritz. Slip these on and expect people to ask where you get your brilliant fashion inspiration. They’ve taken a design cue from the ‘coats’ worn by the region’s cows — handmade in seven colours to denote the Basque provinces.

So the next time someone compares you to a French cow, you can rest assured it’s a compliment … really.

Available at La Maison d’Artiga, 32 Parsons Green Lane, SW6 (020 7736 5454 or espadrille.co.uk).