Rachel Zoe Shares Her Must-Haves For Hosting A Chic Kick Off To Spring

For Rachel Zoe, prepping a home to celebrate spring’s arrival is a lot like updating your wardrobe. The stylist and fashion designer, who’s known for her ability to transform a whole look with a few accessories, knows that little touches often have a major impact. “It’s all about simple adjustments that go a long way,” the style expert shares, noting that swapping a solid-colored throw pillow for a printed one, or plain white dinnerware for an eye-catching print, can make a space feel totally done-over.

At her home in Los Angeles, a large backyard that Zoe describes as “so relaxing and tranquil” is the ideal backdrop for family and friends to convene — and her decor of choice plays into that. “When I entertain, I never want the setting to feel too formal or precious,” she tells TZR. “I want everyone to feel comfortable and casual.” That’s why she’s all for easy updates, like lighting and glasses from Walmart, that have the ability to create a relaxing outdoor oasis — for less.

“I like keeping most fabrics and furniture lines clean, and then layering in on-trend accessories to help bring a particular season to life.” That can mean pairing vintage-inspired goblets with a nubby, natural table runner for a Sunday afternoon happy hour, or neutral plates and bowls with vases of greenery for an it’s-almost-summer al fresco dinner. “Simplicity to me is what feels ‘fresh’ when curating a space,” Zoe states. “It should never feel busy or complicated.”

The bottom line, according to Rachel Zoe? “Revitalizing your outdoor space after winter does not have to be as overwhelming as it sounds.” Need proof? Shop some of the style icon’s self-proclaimed non-negotiables — including chic plates, show-stopping glassware, and comfortable seating — below.