Style

The 9 Pieces Every Angelina Needs In Her Wardrobe

In addition to the one-of-a-kind architecture and show-stopping sights (hello, Griffith Observatory) the fashion scene in LA is one for the books.

By Anna Livia Brady2 min read
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I’m a proud Angelina, and I’m here to share with you what I’ve observed will turn a few heads your way in LA. Here are the 9 pieces every Angelina needs in her wardrobe. 

1. Platform Sandals 

With the warmer weather nearly all year round, a versatile pair of platform sandals are your best friend. While more classic pairs like Birkenstocks are appropriate, the LA scene typically calls for something a little funkier. Think chunky, funky white platform sandals à la Lizzie McGuire. Groovy, baby. 

2. Oversized Denim Jacket 

The cowboy states may be more than a hop, skip, and a jump away from Cali, but that doesn’t stop denim from being a Los Angeles fashion staple. Now that the ‘90s are back, oversized denim jackets are all the rage. And luckily, an oversized Levi’s jacket shouldn’t be too hard to find, whether at Goodwill, Silverlake Flea, or even your mom’s closet. 

3. Vintage Handbag

When it comes to arm wear, gone are the days of Louis Vuitton and YSL (at least for the hip Angelinas). Nowadays, sustainability is all the rage, and no closet is complete without at least one vintage handbag. The brand is almost irrelevant. All that matters is quality leather (or k-leather) that’ll go with anything. The more crescent-shaped, the better. 

4. Dreamy Maxi Dress

We all need that transitional piece that will take us from LACMA visits to outdoor Hollywood Bowl concerts. Where is an LA lady without her Anthropologie maxi dress? And while slinky satin slips are having their moment, a figure-flattering frock with waist cinchers and a hint of a V-neck is sure to turn heads at the Grove. Pro tip: Bold, bright patterns make for a truly Angelina essence, but solid colors are much more versatile. Pair with a bright white pair of Superga sneaks or Doc Martens for a hint of edge. 

5. Heirloom Jewelry 

As mentioned before, Angelinos love their vintage accessories, and it’s not uncommon for them to retrieve staples from thrift stores and swap meets. And, praise be, hand-me-downs are finally getting their moment as a viable and even chic shopping alternative. Both influencers and the bourgeoisie alike are sporting generational jewelry, from crucifixes to earrings to jade pendants. LA is a melting pot of people from all around the world, and wearing pieces that belonged to your ancestors is a great way of showing your pride in your roots. Who knew grandma’s pearls could be so trendy? 

6. Black Loafers

We know what you’re thinking. Why would a preppy schoolboy item be on this list? Hear us out: not only are black loafers exceedingly more comfortable than sky-high platforms, but they also add a hint of class to an otherwise eccentric (in the best way) wardrobe. While any loafers can do the trick, there’s something so timeless about black ones. Keep an eye out at Nordstrom Rack for a cute pair. 

7. Crochet 

This one isn’t so much an article of clothing as it is a vibe. When some people think of crochet, they think of teeny-weeny Coachella dresses paired with face glitter. For others, a handmade crochet sweater does the trick. However you perceive it, crochet details convey artistry, nonconformity, and the beach. Rocking any crochet item with some thick boots and a reusable tote bag gives “I was just surfing, now I’m getting vegan brownies” energy. 

8. Bucket Hat

While we know that bucket hats are not for everyone, they give off such an air of youth and quirkiness that are synonymous with the city of angels. These lids are often styled in monochrome ensembles but are just as cool as statement pieces on their own. Extra points if you can find one from 20+ years ago or hand-stitch a pattern on the front. 

9. Small Sunnies

The last item on this list is one that’s graced the IG feeds of Bella Hadid and Beyoncé alike. While the Spy Kids Y2K shades may be a fad, other more classic styles are sure to stay in style. If worst comes to worst, LA style is anything but linear, so if something’s unfashionable now, just wait five years. 

Closing Thoughts

Creative energy, eccentricity, and nostalgic elements all make LA, well, LA. Take it from a residential Angelina – an oversized denim jacket, a vintage bag or two, and a pair of second-hand loafers will make you fit right in at the Arts District. Now, go treat yourself to an oat milk lavender latte because trust us, bestie, you deserve it. 

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