As a California native and decade-long New York resident, I've spent more hours than I'd like to count crisscrossing the country on red-eye flights. When I arrived in NYC straight out of college, My peers were quick to comment on my casual, outdoorsy style. I was partial to jeans and sneakers and was never one to sacrifice the comfort of flat shoes for sky-high heels. (I was a subway commuter, after all!) Over the years, I've seen my everyday style develop into something a bit more tailored, and now, when I head home, I often find that whatever I've packed feels too formal and out of place for me to wear.
I do dress differently when I'm on different coasts, but ultimately, I find that I still hone in on the same essential wardrobe pieces. It's simply how I style them that shifts. In New York, especially during the winter, it's all about layering and using neutral hues and sharp shapes to keep from looking like I got dressed in the dark. In California, my style is a bit more casual so that I can easily go from a lunch meeting to a hike without missing a beat.
Ahead, I'm shopping out styles that I love for each coast—though, I'm positive they can all work for any destination.
New York
During the colder half of the year in NYC, there's a balance between flexing personal style and actually staying warm. Tailored separates and statement coats are both essentials to dressing on the East Coast. I tend to gravitate toward classic silhouettes and subdued hues because it's the easiest way to make sure my many layers look good together.
A lug sole keeps your feet off the chilly sidewalks.
A statement coat makes the look.
An elegant carryall.
A tailored vest makes for easy layering.
I love styling a button-down with a sweater over it.
These sleek flats look so elegant.
I'd wear this silky dress with a pair of white tights.
An elegant way to make a statement.
These sneakers are a cool alternative to classic white sneakers.
I always carry a structured bag to the office.
Throw on a trench coat to add a tailored feel.
These jeans have a little extra sparkle.
A simple, sleek sweater for everyday wear.
Los Angeles
In California, my style is a bit more casual. Maybe it's due to the weather or the fact that I'm at home visiting family. I still utilize tailored pieces but tend to mix them in with sporty staples. I'm also more inclined to add a bit of color into my outfit—usually because the overall look is simple.
A cargo skirt adds a tough edge to an everyday look.
I love the lightness of this minidress.
Sun protection is a must.
Denim on denim is a personal favorite look.
An oversize tee looks so cool with trousers.
Sneakers that put my best foot forward.
These cropped jeans look great with casual sandals or dressy heels.
A sweater I'd wear sans coat—why cover it up?
If I'm arriving by car, heels are a no-brainer.
A shacket is perfect for those transitional-weather days.
This sweet cardigan is unfussy and elegant.
A dress for working or partying.
I love the springy feel of this jacket.
A key accessory for sunny California.
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