LE CATCH

Today's brisk fifty-degree weather and pouring down rain isn't stopping London Fashion Week show-goers from busting out their newest spring staples, notably sexy sweaters (this, this and this), dark-wash jeans, and mid-height heels. The combo is everyday practical yet chic--and so, so doable across the pond. The perfect high-rise straight-leg jeans, above, are by Slvrlake, cardigan by Prada, and pumps are Bottega Veneta. Below: Dior slingbacks and jeans from Mother. (More spring-fresh, dark-wash options on sale by AG, Mother, The Reformation and Joe's.

Okay, so one of these Mark and Graham shadow letter monogrammed pouches will arrive a little late for Valentine's Day, but I don't care, it's so cute and will last for years on end. The only issue is which color combo??? (Leaning toward the yellow or blush.)

New York Fashion Week's go-to may be more on the mundane side but still essential: a black turtleneck to ride out the rest of winter. The kind that's thick enough to keep me warm but thin enough to fit under tailored blazers and crisp button-downs--and most importantly, goes with EVERYTHING! A hefty order but easily fulfilled by any of these perfect options from Equipment, Jenni Kayne, Cos, J.Crew (almost all sold out!), and The Row (forever and ever).

In my opinion, a classic striped shirt never looks old, but these pics inspire me to style it a little differently for an up-to-date effect. While it's still cold, I'll layer it over a black turtleneck and under a blazer (above) along with a choker. Tailored, slightly deconstructed shirts by Alex Mill, Frame, Lucky, and Balenciaga (spring's most coveted) are the way to go. Come warm weather, I'll go big, billowy and unbuttoned with several strands of gold.

So, how about wearing your (worn-out) winter boots over pants for a fresh new look? I know, it takes a second to get used to, but it's worth a whirl, particularly with so many knee-high boots now on sale by Wandler (also here) Sam Edelman, Schutz (or these), Gianvito Rossi and Kensi. Good for now and next season too.

New York Fashion Week's most eye-catching accessory so far: retro-inspired, rectangular-shaped sunglasses. The made-to-shade must-haves are by Balenciaga, Loewe, Le Specs, Ray-Ban and Krewe.

While shades of pink and statement sleeves took center stage in Hollywood last night, dramatic knits and collars performed flawlessly in New York. Fashion Week has show-goers playing up practicality--more than usual, at least-- executing looks not just made for the paparazzi but for the general public (me!). Herewith, my favorite acts, and how to role-play with pieces like this fringed Coach and Ulla Johnson (both similar to above), Tory Burch, Trina Turk, or AQUA($69!). P.S.: Statement sweaters are here to stay, as per Fall 2020 runways from Tory Burch, Rachel Comey and Longchamp, and I found these cute ones (some on sale) from J.Crew, Victoria Beckham, and Gucci (similar to last pic). Also drawing attention: these collared blouses by Chloe (below), Opt, and Rebecca Taylor.

If you've checked out my Instagram Stories this past week, you've seen that I've been a wee bit preoccupied in French Polynesia, capering around in H&M, Zimmermann, Patbo, Haney x Le Catch and Farm Rio. Hence the dearth of posts. Expect full details on my Tahitian getaway next week! Have a great weekend!

$325, clare v

Strawberries and snakeskin. But, of course!!

Escape this winter day with me (here) by whisking away a few tropical treats from Shopbop's sale, including the pretty florals, above, by Faithfull the Brand. Also Southern Hemisphere-ready: this Innika Choo, Hemant and Nandita, Zimmermann, Reformation, and Solid & Striped. Can't pry yourself away? No prob. There's plenty of wear-this-minute stuff too including my favorite day-in-and-day-out jeans.