For many people, one of the biggest draws to living in Southern California is its idyllic weather. With an average fall temperature of seventy degrees in Santa Monica, you may feel grateful you don’t have to invest in fuzzy scarves, snow hats, or giant puffer jackets. But, you still want to be comfortable as you take advantage of all the outdoor beauty the area offers. Making sure your wardrobe is stocked with the right essentials to stay comfortable throughout the day is key. Whether new to the area or just looking to revamp your wardrobe, keep reading for your must-haves in your closet for an easy, breezy, Southern California autumn.
Maxi Dresses
A maxi dress is one of the most versatile pieces of clothing any woman can own. Thankfully with all the luxury shopping in Santa Monica, it’s easy work to find a dress in a print and style that flatters you and in which you feel confident. The great thing about maxi dresses is they work for varying temperatures and are easily dressed up or down depending on what you pair with them. Maxi dresses are cute and comfortable with a pair of flip-flops or sandals while you stroll through Palisades Park, or you can dress them up with a pair of wedges and bold lip color for dinner at The Penthouse.
Designer Sunglasses
The beautiful, sunny weather and majestic vistas are a huge draw of living in Southern California. Make sure you’re protecting the delicate skin around your eyes and not having to squint while you take in those views with a pair of high-end shades. Sunglasses are vital to prevent fine lines and Crow’s feet around your eyes, not to mention they can hide the effects of a late night out at Senator Jones. If you’re a parent, look pulled together in a pinch and ditch the undereye concealer for school drop-off by slipping on a pair of Gucci or Chloe shades.
The Perfect Carry-All
Whether you’re spending the day at Tonga Park or shopping along the 3rd Street Promenade, sometimes, you don’t have time to head home for your essentials. A stylish and comfortable carry-all to fit your needs, from your reusable water bottle to your laptop, is key in Santa Monica. You can invest in a designer or go with your classic, preppy canvas tote; just make sure you’ve got one by the door before you head out.
Good Jeans
While good genes are important, so are good (denim) jeans. With the autumn weather in SoCal at a comfortable temperature, making sure you’ve got your favorite womens skinny jeans or straight leg on deck is paramount. Jeans pair perfectly with almost anything and, just like a maxi dress, are simple to dress up or dress down with the switch of a shoe and hairstyle.
Light Layers
One of the best things about waking up in Santa Monica in the fall is the cooler morning temperatures and transition to idyllic temperatures by late afternoon. Ensure you stay comfortable all day by ensuring your wardrobe is stocked with light layers. For some, a cardigan is all the layering options they need, while others may feel more comfortable in a bulkier hooded sweatshirt. Since you’ve already got your carry-all, make sure you pack a layer or two to stay comfy all day.
Leather or Denim Jacket
Nothing looks more effortlessly chic while keeping you comfortable than a well-worn jacket. Whether you opt for your dad’s vintage jean jacket he wore in high school or invested in a designer black leather jacket; it’s critical to have a jacket in your hall closet to grab before you head out for a night on the town. Leather jackets can be the perfect touch to polish your look for a date night, and denim jackets pair easily with everything from dresses at the Farmer’s Market or shorts and Rainbows by the beach.
While wardrobe needs change based on age, body type, and individual taste, the items mentioned earlier are essential to everyone living or visiting Southern California. Don’t skimp on what creates the base of it all, and do your feet a favor. Be sure to have a pair of versatile, durable, and comfortable pair of men’s or women’s lifestyle sneakers that you can wear anywhere. The key is to have something that will fit with most outfits, and also something that you can feel comfortable being all day in.
