MILLY Designer, Michelle Smith, Selects Her Spring 2013 Essentials

You know I’m a sucker for cool New York labels, and this season I can’t get enough of MILLY. The Spring/Summer 2013 collection is feminine, flirty and has a graceful, timeless edge. So it’s no surprise Kate Middleton and Gwyneth Paltrow are both big fans of the brand. MILLY Designer and founder, Michelle Smith, took time out of her busy schedule to share her spring essentials with Coco’s Tea Party. See her selection below, from the must-read book to the hot SS13 handbag:

1. Nemesis by Philip Roth. “I’m currently alternating between reading Nemesis by Philip Roth and Diana Vreeland: Empress of Fashion by Amanda Mackenzie Stewart,” Michelle reveals. “I only get through a few pages before I conk out fast asleep, so I’ve been milking these for a while!”

2. MILLY lace coat. “I think every MILLY employee bought one of these luxurious Italian magnolia lace coats. It will elevates your outfit as soon as you put it on. Trust me – you need this in your closet. Perfect for when the weather is beautiful but you still want something over your shoulders.”

3. MILLY kaleidoscope trousers. “This from-the-runway print is really fun. Don’t expect to walk around in these without turning some heads…”

4. MILLY mirrored pencil skirt. “My Mirrored Python Pencil Skirt is one of my personal faves this season,” Michelle says. “I get compliments every time I wear it, and it looks good even with a simple tee. The material is luxe and one-of-a-kind – definitely a season standout.”

5. Chanel eyeshadow palette. Michelle keeps her makeup routine simple. “Moisturiser on a clean face, mascara, smear a little eye makeup from Chanel’s Smokey Eye palette and I’m good to go!”

6. MILLY ‘Reece’ tote. “This is the bag every girl in our office wants. It’s modern, sleek and graceful, and the colour complements every outfit.”