The May Edit With Caroline

As we approach the unofficial start of summer (hello, Memorial Day), I’ve got warm weather on my mind, and layering still as a current reality. With travel in a lot of our futures, planning those key pieces that layer well together is a skill we all like to try and master. And for those of us staying local, gathering with friends indoors and out brings our home hub into focus and makes it prime for a refresh. So for this month’s edition of The Edit, I’m sharing my curated collection of favorites to pack my bags (and yours), as well as ways to get your home guest-ready and your wardrobe updated with some exciting spring additions.

We’ve reached peak layering season, when mornings and evenings are calling for a lightweight cardigan, jacket or scarf. I’ve loved Lauren Manoogian from the moment I first wore one of her sweaters, but her spring collection is my favorite to date. It’s filled with cozy layering pieces that are elevated enough for home entertaining and perfect for travel too. I've snapped up the Wide Button Cardigan, made from a pima cotton blend. Wear it over leggings or denim, or as a dress with Golden Goose Sneakers and a cross body bag like the Rodeo. Ethically hand-loomed in Peru, the Rib Shawl Cardigan is another layering piece from Lauren Manoogian's collection that I love for spring. Wrap over dresses, blouses, t-shirts, even pajamas. I’m styling mine with my favorite R13 Courtney Slim Jean and the Cece Flats from Aquazzura.

Another way to approach spring layering is to add a lightweight coat into the rotation. I love the Laila Belted Coat from Mackage in a milky white color which makes any outfit look fresh. It's unlined so you don't have to worry about being too warm. Style with the same denim jeans and Aquazzura flats for a chic work look. A light layer and travel essential, The Luxe Scarf from Jane Carr has been a favorite of mine for years. It’s made from soft and cozy cashmere and can be wrapped around your shoulders or worn as a neck scarf.

Whether you’re attending or hosting, the Smythe Shirtdress is made for spring gatherings. The casual button up style is elevated by the Cote D’Azure print, subtle side slits and soft silk fabrication. Dress it up with heels or for a more casual look, opt for flats or a sandal.

With travel plans set, now it’s time to pack, which can be a daunting task for many. But with the right essentials, it doesn't have to be. Dressing for a day of travel should look chic, yet feel comfortable – think the Alala Jet Set Cardigan paired with the Wander Sweatpant. Both are super soft, incredibly comfortable, crease resistant and easily mask any spills en route. Oprah even named the sweatpants one of her "favorite things". And if I need that extra cozy layer on the plane, The Luxe Scarf is lightweight, packs well and can be worn as a scarf or blanket.

Make travel days easier and opt for a hat to keep flyaways at bay, like this velour NY Yankees Cap. I like how it gives any look (even a sweater and sweatpants) some edge, plus I’m partial to any New York sports team. And when I’m heading from the terminal to final boarding, the New Balance 574 Sneaker gets me there in comfort. This style is not only a great travel shoe, but a great closet staple too. 

To keep me organized while on the go, I love this multi pocket leather bag from Anya Hindmarch. It features exterior pockets for your phone, sunglasses and other important things, like a passport. And I can’t travel without the TK-3 Sunglasses from Oliver Peoples. The shape is great for all face shapes and skin tones.

I have a couple of skincare essentials that I like to have on hand while traveling. First, the Little Barn Apothecary Coconut + Lemon Hand Sanitizer is great for misting away germs and is the perfect size for your carry on, plus it smells amazing too. And to keep my hands and body moisturized, my go-to is the Hydrating Body Cream from Haoma. It penetrates deep to heal and soothe dry skin, plus it has a lovely scent of fig, red mandarin and cocoa.

Spring gatherings are in full swing, which makes it prime time for a home refresh. Even just a couple of swaps around the house can really freshen up a space, like bringing in new cushions. And I know I'm not the only one who's obsessed with cushions! My current favorites are from the latest collection I made with vintage fabric I have been collecting - the Grey Batik Dotted Cushion and Grey Stripe Grain Sack Cushion for the bedroom (see my recent bedroom refresh post here) and this Taupe/Cream Batik Cushion would be beautiful on a sofa or arm chair.

Even though I’m not reaching for a throw as often this time of year, I still like to have one on hand, especially if we're sitting outside at night. This Moroccan Blanket is hand dyed and made from natural cotton that softens with each wash. It also has oversized pompoms at the hem and flecks of metallic fiber that run through the fabric – a lovely, neutral layer on a bed or couch. Take your refresh to the next level by layering a vintage inspired rug like the Watamu Rug. Its calming cool shades of blue and grey add the air of summer to any space, from the bedroom to the living room, hallway or bathroom.

When you're looking for a simple refresh, lighting a candle is quick and easy way to freshen up the home. I’m currently loving the newest scent, Night Bloom from Linnea. It’s handcrafted using the highest quality fragrances and essential oils, and smells of balmy night air, sea waves crashing and jasmine. Adding a vase of fresh flowers is another easy and simple way to freshen up a home. Lately I’ve been loving a vase or pitcher from Barro with a fresh bouquet of peonies.

Whether I'm hosting a gathering indoors or out, I like to set the table using casual linen napkins - it feels elevated without being too fancy. I custom designed these Organic Natural Dye Cotton Napkins that are block printed by hand in India, and love the blue paisley print for a spring or summer place setting. And to add a touch of texture to any table, these Rattan Cayman Trays come in three different sizes that are suitable for any space, from bedside to coffee table, dining table or daybed.

From traveling to hosting gatherings, this time of year always seems to build in momentum and being prepared helps ease the load. Hopefully my curated collection of favorites brings inspiration to your travels and into your home and wardrobe. I’ve always believed that it’s the little things in life, and in this case, a new cushion, scented candle or cardigan can spark joy and add to the richness of the experiences created.