As an L.A. transplant who moved from New York City three years ago, I feel like I'm just now beginning to understand the West Coast dress code. Yes, there's a lot more athleisure you see while out and about (which makes sense for a city that seemingly revolves around hiking and Pilates classes), but I find that, at its core, L.A. dressing is about evoking a certain effortlessness with your outfits. The longer I live here, the more I realize my style is more closely aligned with L.A., and I've been sure of the pieces I wear now more than ever—certainly more than when I lived in NYC, where I was always second-guessing my ensemble before leaving my apartment.
When it comes to everyday pieces, I always look at what Zara has to offer. The retailer has great prices, plus the styles I've bought are ones I wear over and over. I still have a shirt from the store that's almost a decade old. Below, you'll find 32 items from the site that I'm hoping to relocate into my fashion-editor closet. And because my style's changed so much since my move from NYC, they all also fit seamlessly with the L.A. fashion scene, whether you're in Santa Monica or Silverlake. From knee-high boots and shoulder bags to wide-leg jeans and cardigans, each of the forthcoming designs had me reaching for my wallet. (I am in the middle of a closet overhaul, after all.) Keep shopping for my most coveted Zara picks right now.
This structured blazer is such a cool piece.
You can never have too many cardigans.
I used to never wear belts, and now I really see the use—especially when you're layering with a cropped white tank top.
I know low-rise jeans are back in, but I still love me a pair of high-waisted pants. Don't come for me!
Even though suede is harder to take care of, I have such a soft spot for it—especially on a bag like this.
A lined jacket that adds some texture is always a yes in my book.
This color is really speaking to me.
This tobacco-brown shade is so good.
Knee-high boots are always a go-to of mine.
This dress is even prettier in person, if you can believe it.
This looser-fitting cable-knit is such a good style.
Elevate your winter look with some pleated pants in this trendy burgundy shade.
Slingbacks are so much better than pumps in my opinion. These buckle ones are very chic.
When you mix a bomber jacket with a cardigan, you get this cozy knit jacket.
The shape and burgundy hue of this shoulder bag is one I'll wear over and over again this season.
This gray vest is such a classic, and it looks so elevated with the matching skirt.
Shop the matching Basic Knit Midi Skirt ($46).
Miniskirts and a sweater are a classic pair and made for those L.A. nights.
This shade is everything.
A simple black bucket bag will truly stand the test of time. Plus, this price point isn't half bad.
Los Angeles can still get pretty cold, so a wool coat is always a good item to keep in your closet.
This plaid skirt is really speaking to me, especially with a brown sweater and chunky boots.
I always try to stock up on crewneck sweaters when the weather gets a little chilly.
Just easy.
A denim shirt will go with so many things in your wardrobe, trust me.
I'm eyeing these suede flats to switch up my usual leather ones.
When those Santa Ana winds act up in L.A., you'll be glad you're wearing a skort.
For the days when you don't want to wear jeans, I suggest gravitating toward these ribbed pants.
Can never say no to pinstripes.
Sometimes the day calls for a preppy look, and this pleated skort will help you get there.
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