I just spent the week in Los Angeles and have been waiting for my opportunity to talk about it so here we go. As a full-fledged New Yorker who has built her entire personality around the city that never sleeps, I'm well aware that there can be some competition between the two coasts. I'm here to tell you that this rivalry is something I have no interest in partaking in.
Every time I visit L.A., (four times in the past 365 days but who's counting) I convince myself it's time to become bicoastal. As a Gemini, having multiple personalities is kind of my thing and I think the L.A. version of myself deserves to be set free. I spent my time there living with locals in Laurel Canyon, weekending in Santa Monica, and staying at my favorite place, the 1 Hotel West Hollywood for the rest of my trip. The verdict is in: L.A. is a city worth visiting.
While I explored the different neighborhoods of the expansive city, I couldn't help but notice the different approaches they take to fashion there. Out to dinner, I saw people dine in the closest thing I could describe to pajamas. In New York, a dress and heels have become a requirement for leaving the house, period, but I was inspired by the effortlessly chic look that many L.A. girls were sporting. Among those who dressed up, a few of my favorite trends were running rampant around the city so I decided to start a list on my phone to answer the age-old question, "What is the L.A. fashion set really wearing right now?" The answers lie below.
1. Halter-Style Tops
Everyone loves Y2K style right now, but most of the bold graphic tees and nostalgic accessories lean on the trendy side. I wanted to look on-trend but elegant for my dinner at Avra, so I decided this midi dress would touch on my love for the 2000s without being too much.
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Every detail is perfection, but I'm quite a fan of the ruching.
L.A. girls were living for the tailored vest trend.
If you're more of a girly girl, this romper is for you.
2. Purple
Something about purple has won me over, and apparently, the L.A. fashion set is in agreement. It's predicted to be a real hit this fall and for many months to come.
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This bikini blew me away.
Have you ever seen a more perfect knit?
This bag stole my heart.
3. Sporty Sunglasses
Since L.A. girls are known for loving athleisure and casual style, the sporty sunglasses trend pairs very well with their wardrobe. When in doubt, remember the bigger the better.
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People ask me constantly where I got these and I always tell them they were only $12.
Fully commit to the trend, I dare you.
Shield sunglasses are for the elite.
4. Wide-Leg Jeans
Denim was a style staple that made me envious of L.A. residents. I can't remember the last time I wore a pair of jeans because of how hot it's been in New York, but I saw them every minute of every day in L.A. And my favorite silhouette had to be wide legs.
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I am obsessed with the detailing at the belt of this pair.
Just the right amount of baggy.
She's perfection.
5. Sheer
Going out in L.A., I saw a lot of girls wear the classic high-waisted jeans and bodysuit look that never fails. Those who stepped up their style and wore something unique tended to gravitate towards sheer pieces which was so fun to see.
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I don't think I've ever seen a more L.A. tank.
Just look at this skirt.
A dress the people will be talking about for ages.
6. Y2K Everything
While I feel like many of the L.A. girls that I noticed were minimalists, the trend-driven set was all about Y2K details. Think low-rise, graphic tees, trucker hats, and more. You can't go wrong adopting the early aughts.
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These pants sell out over and over and I know why.
Perfection.
We love a travel enthusiast.
7. Cotton Poplin
Everyone from Beverly Hills moms to fashion insiders could be found in a cotton poplin maxi dress or blouse at some point over the weekend. Now here's a trend I enthusiastically agree upon.
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The best colorway meets the best fabric.
Ballerina vibes all around.
Think pink.
8. Wardrobe Staples
Whenever I go to L.A., I shift to a uniform that heavily depends on wardrobe staples. A ribbed tank, wide-leg pants, and sneakers are always the main look in the suitcase. You can't go wrong with investing in this for the year ahead.
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We love a halter tank.
You'll wear them again and again.
An item I've already gotten dozens of compliments on.
Everyone loves a classic.
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