From 60s Laurel Canyon to Palm Springs right now, there's no place better than California to look for style inspiration when the sun starts to shine. 

As we eagerly await the annual dose of mouthwatering fashion candy from Coachella festival this weekend, Michelle Siwy, head of denim at quintessentially West Coast label Wildfox gives us her ten tips on what it means to embrace Cali-cool. 

The defining thing about California style is that you don’t necessarily have to dress for function or weather, so it’s pure style here. There is almost no walking involved and the weather is predictable, so that opens a few style options up such as wearing expensive heels during the day or layering and accessorising complete looks for warmer weather. Though it may appear laid back, I think in Cali, people tend to style and plan more. 

Big Sur, Joshua Tree and Malibu are the most beautiful places in California. They should be seen with your own eyes at least twice in your lifetime and maybe even at different stages of life, too.

I like bohemian style, but done in a chic way with a touch of luxury.  The people who I feel represent this kind of Californian influence best are Nicole Richie, Alessandra Ambrosio, Rosie Huntington Whiteley, and, of course, the ultimate, Olsen sisters.  

Aside from Wildfox, there are so many great Californian brands. I love LnA, a t-shirt brand based in LA, because they offer the look and feel of classic tees with modern and wearable fits. The assortment is great and I can find anything from perfectly fitted tees that are just slightly flirtier than the norm to loose tees that whisper sex appeal. You will never feel dowdy or look too exposed. My fave! The Reformation adds exceptional fit details to their pieces and makes dressing up very easy to do without looking like you are trying too hard. They have the most flattering jumpsuits and maxi dresses. They are known for upcycling vintage garments and fabric, so everything is limited.

I think being in the sun all the time lowers your inhibition and can cause you to dress less. No one enjoys being too primped when you are so close to nature. 

To dress casually but still look great, I think staying polished is the key. It stops you coming across as sloppy or lazy. Tying a look together with details like jewelry, good shoes, and making sure your makeup is on point can upgrade your overall look.

My favourite way to spend a day is getting up early with several strong cups of coffee and browsing through design or craft books. I like to take on new hobbies that keep my mind creative and my skills sharp. I’m currently teaching myself how to quilt and getting back into an old childhood hobby of making macramé plant holders. 

Tacos are the best thing to eat in California! Outside of Mexico, LA has some of the best tacos I’ve ever tasted. In LA, you find tacos in almost every restaurant. Even in Korean or Italian restaurants, you will see the influence on the menu. Also, avocados are so abundant here that I often just eat them with olive oil and chile flakes as a snack. I try to take advantage of that while I’m in LA because it’s a mission to find ripe avocados in NYC.

I love to hang out at Pace in Laurel Canyon for casual Italian in a romantic setting, Madeo in Beverly Hills for posh Italian, Esquela for the best Branzino tacos and guacamole I’ve ever had, and Sushi Park – my secret, low key best sushi spot. 

Check out the latest styles from Wildfox to get a bit of your own California style.