I'm an American Living in London, But I'll Always Think These Summer in California Outfits Are Chic
I've long dreamt of being a California girl. Just look at any list or compilation of summer-in-California outfits, and you'll get one reason of many why the fashion set on the West Coast is such a dreamy cohort to be part of and such a great one to pull summer capsule wardrobe ideas from.
Being raised in Oregon, the state just above, I always yearned to embody the laidback aesthetic and inborn skill for creating exceptionally good outfits that California residents seem to always nail. I even embodied a surfer-meets-skater girl aesthetic synonymous with the state for two years of high school, despite literally not being able to do either. This was after visiting San Diego for a summer fashion camp and watching a few too many episodes of 90201 and desperately wanting to be Ivy Sullivan. It wasn't my brightest moment, but it was good information for developing my personal style.
However, now that I'm immersed in fashion writing, I have a better sense of analysing outfits and an understanding of how their classic summer style comes together year after year, even across major cities in the same state. As this edit proves, the West Coast is the best coast, and this relatively small selection of outfits is a firm piece of evidence.
You can't really categorise a place by a single outfit, but when you're focusing on a summer-in-the-city capsule wardrobe, there are standout elements you can refer to that often appear over and over in specific locations. That's not to put everyone in the same boat, but really just to appreciate style ideas you can adopt and try yourself. New York summer outfits are often polished and speak to the career-driven, fast-paced (and very stylish) lifestyle there. This mingles with more creative street style looks that show the most beautiful uses of creativity. Paris outfits are also more polished and refined, courtesy of the impeccable brands native to the city and sense of romance imbued into everyday life.
These looks differ from the ones you see across California by quite a stretch. Out there, sure, cities are busy, but the laidback aesthetic, whether fully embraced or merely hinted at, is always there somewhere. That's not to say that Californian tastemakers don't create some of the most sophisticated outfits either—it's just a different feel to them. You'll spot laidback styles featuring tees and board shorts, romantic looks centred on Dôen's Daphne dress or sleek lace tops and little black dresses.
Where you're based in California, or visiting, will also make a difference. You might be wine-tasting in Sonoma or Napa, or stretching out for a day on the golden beaches of Malibu. Maybe you're shopping around Los Angeles or Orange County, or my favourite, coffee taste-testing all the cutest cafes around Silver Lake with a friend. Regardless of plans, they'll call for different outfits, and you'll notice that residents of these areas will all dress a little differently too. Not to mention, many parts of California experience weather akin to summer for most of the year, so they're best prepared to offer advice for dressing during the hottest months.
So whether you're a fan of California style or would like some chic summer capsule inspiration, the following summer-in-California outfits will absolutely deliver. And hey, might even have you channelling your inner Summer Roberts from The O.C...
9 Summer-in-California Outfits to Embrace This Season
1. West Hollywood
Style Notes: West Hollywood is the perfect spot to get a dose of glamour and your fill of Los Angeles at its flashiest. Here you'll find the Sunset Strip, which is a mecca of nightlife options. Aside from this side of it, it's a part of LA that's full of history and hidden gems if you know where to look. As for outfits? I'd take a page from Los Angeles-based fashion creator Kristin Cabatingan. Her long lace top over jeans and with strappy minimalist sandals will take you from an adorable brunch spot to dancing and drinks at night.
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The most romantic looks I've seen this summer feature these extra-long tops (or dresses used as tops) in lace or chiffon with ruffles and embroidery.
If you're looking to invest in good jeans, Agolde is worth considering. The brand has countless styles and colours that wear well and remain timeless.
A mini bag carries just the essentials when you're going from a day walking around the city to a night out.
Sleek, simple and a style you will want to wear again in summer 2027.
2. Los Angeles
Style Notes: Finding one outfit to embody that of Los Angeles is next to impossible, but a romantic white mini dress, large tote bag and flip-flops come close. This feels stylish—LA folks are so chic—but embraces that chilled, close-to-the-coast attitude. You'll feel comfortable and breezy enough to walk down palm-lined streets and shop and dine for hours, even in the sweltering summer heat.
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This style of dress is popular in California and all across Europe, too.
These feel like something Paris Hilton would wear circa 2003.
These have the most elegant micro wedge and a sleek leather finish.
As an alternative to raffia, opt for a woven leather tote.
3. Montecito
Style Notes: You've probably heard of Montecito in reference to the sheer number of celebrities that have homes there. (Read: Gwyneth Paltrow and Meghan Markle.) It is indeed a luxe place but also worth visiting to shop its gorgeous boutiques and explore its gardens. Not to mention, like many places in California, there are ample natural places of astounding beauty to hike and wander around. For a day here, a simple outfit with elegant touches is fitting. Consider a white button-down shirt, blue jeans and ballet flats for a truly timeless uniform.
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This shirt is tailored so well and a perfect pairing with blue jeans.
A classic cut that'll stay with you through any trend cycle.
Ballerinas are a classic shoe that Californian, British and French women alike enjoy having in their wardrobes.
This is a gorgeous bag that has structure but feels soft and fluid too thanks to the tassels.
4. San Francisco
Style Notes: My strongest memories of San Francisco are sourdough, Ghirardelli chocolate and hills with incredibly impressive inclines. The city has so much to see and do, so an outfit that'll keep you trekking for thousands of steps but chic enough to take you into dinner is a must. Take fashion creator Dawn Tan's look as inspiration. A capri pants outfit with a super-low kitten heel and a sleek long vest is the perfect embodiment of this. I also recommend grabbing an açaí bowl and escaping the posters for Silicon Valley start-ups by driving out to Marin and San Rafael to see even more of this area and get a slower pace of life.
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This is such a pretty top that's cool enough for summer wear but the length and high-neck make it look so sophisticated.
Capris have become a summer staple, and a must for monochromatic black outfits.
The tiny heel makes these feel infinitely elegant, but not impossible to walk in.
So cute and so reminiscent of the early 2000s.
5. Malibu
Style Notes: Whether you're indulging in a meal at Nobu or grabbing a pizza to eat on the beach to watch a gig at the pier, Malibu is an obvious stop on a Californian itinerary. Take in the aquamarine waters, drive around and admire the mansions, hike through the canyon and sip drinks while watching the sunset—it's what this place is for. For inspiration, look to California-based fashion creator Marina Torres, who has styled her look to perfection. A simple pair of cotton trousers with a silk, lace-trim top and a sweeping scarf have all the components of a gorgeous Malibu outfit.
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The aqua and cream contrast is a nice touch (and will match the scarf).
Cotton trousers with voluminous legs are my go-to style for nearly any summer occasion.
This is perfect for wrapping and draping. And because it's 100% cotton, it's not too warm for summer wear.
A tortoiseshell-print sandal peeping out from under your trousers is such a cute and subtle way of incorporating animal prints.
6. Santa Barbara
Style Notes: Whilst you stare in awe at the Spanish Colonial architecture and sweeping coastal views, you'll want a chic look to do it in, I presume. To me, Santa Barbara style has always had a delightful trio of influences. Coastal, luxury and laidback aesthetics are all present, creating outfits that really feel ready for any occasion. A great white T-shirt (try a fitted silhouette), black midi skirt and a pop of colour through shoes are all great starting points for putting together outfits when in SB.
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Pointelle gives a little texture to your standard white T-shirt.
A timeless choice at a length that works with so many tops and shoes.
I'm a big fan of the unexpected red theory. It adds the perfect pop to an outfit.
This one is on my wish list. It doesn't get better than a classic black bag—it works for every season.
6. San Diego
Style Notes: Any chance I get, I'm looking at flights down to San Diego. There are an infinite number of places to eat the best Mexican food of your life in the US, and there is no shortage of unbelievably good coffee shops. Go to Mnemonic Coffee for the best latte, then walk across the Cabrillo Bridge to explore Balboa Park and the San Diego Art Museum. For all of it, equip yourself with a relaxed linen shirt, wide-leg trousers, a basket tote and a cute sunhat. Together, it's chic but very ready for a day in San Diego.
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I love this hue that toes the line between cream and butter yellow.
Linen textures always fit right into a heatwave capsule wardrobe.
Raffia sun hats are always something you'll wear again summer after summer.
Nothing says summer bag quite like this texture, but the leather trim and handle gives it a little more elegance.
7. Laguna Beach
Style Notes: I'm not ashamed to admit that yes, visiting Laguna Beach does feel like you're living your inner Lauren Conrad fantasy. Like anywhere, I'm sure living there feels different, but you can spend hours watching the surfers and winding your way down wooden steps to the beach or through colourful, flower-filled gardens. When you've had enough sun, you can mosey around the brilliant Laguna Art Museum. It's this city (along with many others in California) where an outfit with a well-planned dichotomy is key. A casual, long-sleeve tee with a sparkly skirt and flip-flops is so Laguna-coded.
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An absolute staple and very trendy take on the white long-sleeved tee.
A party skirt is always a good idea, and always looks fun paired with a more casual top.
Meet the sunglasses style that will never feel dated.
Yep, 2026 is the return of the jelly flip-flop. I particularly like this sleek pair that leans more subtly into the jelly trend.
8. Napa
Style Notes: Napa is part of what's known as wine country. It's full of bougie little vineyards, chic shops and delightful restaurants. It's here where jeans and a nice top are an undeniably reliable combination. If you're like me and wine isn't your thing or you've explored the rolling hills aplenty, you can be a total book fanatic and drive an hour to Sacramento for a literary tour featuring Joan Didion, Maya Angelou and Raymond Carver. Or you can scoot over to Sonoma for more adventures. Either way, you'll feel eternally chic in this Northwestern region in a look like Hailey Bieber's, with a statement jacket and relaxed jeans. It's elegant but effortless.
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Nothing says statement jacket like faux fur or faux feather trim sleeves.
If you love leaning into the '90s and '00s, a strappy camisole is a must.
A silhouette and colour that'll go with so many items in your wardrobe.
The perfect luxurious accessory for wearing around the vineyards—not that you need to watch the time.
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