LE CATCH

This recent Instagram pic of my friend (and powerhouse behind LA-based charity Baby2Baby) Kelly Sawyer Patricof, far right, and her pals in St. Barths made me long for my sunny days on the isle--and for a new pair of statement sunnies! A round frame is clearly the way to go. Kelly is wearing a retro-spirited pair by Illesteva. I'm also loving these by Celine, Ray-Ban (or this, similar to above), Kaibosh, Super Sunglasses, Leith and Topshop.

Photo: Kelly Sawyer Patricof

Yes, crop tops, fringed kimonos, and ethnic print dresses were out in full force at Coachella this past weekend, but, in my opinion, it was the stealth players--i.e. not-your-typical festival attire--that stole the spotlight. For example: Kate Bosworth and Rosie Huntington Whitley turned out in clean and streamlined separates, like this lace-up blouse (or this one), and these subdued bohemian Coach cross-body bags, which are now on my most wanted list! Other standout looks that go from Coachella and well beyond, below!

I love DJ Harley Viera Newton's sweet but sexy gingham Michael Kors dress.

Alexa Chung's ethereal Chloe dress is pretty heavenly. I like this version by Club Monaco.

There's that awesome Coach bag again, sported by Kate Bosworth.

Photos: Vogue, Harley Viera Newton, Racked

$45, front row shop

This season's denim skirt touts a longer, more ladylike hemline, cool standout buttons, and a crisp, clean finish.

1. Nina Ricci sweater, $1475, netaporter.com
2. Kristen Elspeth earrings, $194, shopbop.com
3. Yves Saint Laurent Nail Lacquer in Saharienne, $27, nordstrom.com
4. Clare V. clutch, $220, clarev.com
5. Prada leather t-strap sandals, $850, bergdorfgoodman.com
6. Front Row Shop denim skirt, $45, frontrowshop.com

I love my gladiators, but there's something nice about these simple and subdued (and timelessly classic) about these sandals.

My recent travels have made me realize that what I wear flying across time zones is just as important as what's in my suitcase. My outfit needs to be comfortable, stylish, and most importantly, wearable throughout the trip (or at least elements of it!). When I went to Tulum earlier this month, I wore this breezy Tory Burch top, which fared well on the flight down and then later basked on the beach (see below). I usually sport stretchy jeans (one of my favorites is by Madewell and they're on sale!) or wide-leg pants--nothing constricting and never, ever workout leggings!--a basic lightweight sweater that can be used for layering, like this or this, and a versatile, unfussy blazer (such as this or this) that goes with everything from shorts to dresses. The right-sized carry-on is also key. When it's too big I tend to stuff it with even more (non-essential) stuff. Along with my laptop, book, and magazines, my carry-on should be able to accommodate a few indispensables such as a bathing suit and sandals in case my luggage gets lost! Ideally, it also doubles as my handbag for the trip, suitable for sightseeing new cities and beelining to the beach. The Gigi bag, above, fits the bill, as does this, this and this.

Photos: Life with Emily, Coliena Rentmeester

$217, asos

This is my version of Coachella chic. I'd also like to throw it over a bathing suit and call it a day!

1. French Connection tassel top, $217, asos.com
2. Illesteva sunglasses, $290, neimanmarcus.com
3. Mar y Sol tote bag, $125, nordstrom.com
4. K. Jacques sandals, $255, bergdorfgoodman.com
5. Madewell shorts, $64, madewell.com

I just snapped up this asymmetrical Zara dress and am looking forward to its myriad repeat performances with weekend-casual sandals, work-appropriate heels and evening out shoes.

$398, french connection

I'd like to weather mercurial spring in this sleek suede shift.

1. French Connection suede dress, $398, frenchconnection.com
2. Balmain bone and rose gold bracelet, $2390, netaporter.com
3. Nars Nude Scene lipstick, $27, nordstrom.com
4. Givenchy clutch, $375, bergdorfgoodman.com
5. Aquazurra booties, $850, shopbop.com

All those perfectly old and worn-in-looking t-shirts I've been collecting over the years are being put away this spring for perfectlybrand-new-looking t-shirts (see above)! I'm talking: tees that look crisp, sophisticated and elegant (not distressed). Ones that go with both fancy statement skirts and everyday jeans. Ones that fit like a glove (note the close-to-the-neck collar) and are almost preposterously comfortable. Sound hard to find? On the contrary. I discovered these holy t-shirt grails from Crippen, Frame Denim, Adam Lippes, Lady & The Sailor and Toteme.

Photo: Zimbio

$101*, shopbop

I love this dressed-up take on the gladiator sandal. The chunky heel and neutral hue make it incredibly wearable, too!

1. Iro dress, $560, netaporter.com
2. Illestevia mirrored sunglasses, $175, jcrew.com
3. Alexis Bittar cuff bracelet, $175, shopbop
4. Oliveve cross-body bag, $315, shopbop.com
5. Joe's Jeans sandals, $101*, shopbop.com

*Get this price or 25% off with the code here