Fashion advice #1: California dreaming
In tomorrow's G, I tackle this sartorial query. Read what I have to say in the extended entry, and feel free to add your own thoughts in the comments section.
Dear Christopher,
I desperately need your help. I am a 31-year-old married mother of three boys, and I am finally escaping for four days to go to Los Angeles with a group of my girlfriends. We have a long weekend full of sightseeing, beach-going, and bar hopping. What should I wear? I don't have a closet full of trendy clothes. I'm more on the preppy side, and do most of my shopping at the Loft or J Crew. Keep in mind that I gave birth to three boys, so my physique is not what it once was, but I run everyday. Am I going to stick out like a sore thumb in L.A.? Are there normal people out west? I can't afford to go crazy and buy a new wardrobe for this trip. Please suggest some key items to pack.
Melanie
Dear Melanie,
Your "Sex and the City"-esque Los Angeles romp sounds like a real treat, however, I think your fears of sticking out in Los Angeles are unfounded. After all, the city is filled with bad face-lifts and lots of Juicy Couture track pants. But I brought your questions to someone who knows Los Angeles a tad better than I do: Lucky Magazine's editor-at-large Elise Loehnen. Here's what she had to say:
"You absolutely don't need a fashion re-invention for Los Angeles. Preppy basics are at the root of a lot of trends right now. I firmly believe that it's all in the layering. Instead of focusing on highlight pieces that might actually be difficult to wear, look to separate elements for shots of texture and color -- it will make your entire look more complex and interesting. Pack basic tanks or T-shirts, a tailored oxford or two, a navy blazer, some good jeans, a fun skirt, and a simple, well-fitting dress. Then concentrate the rest of your attention on fun accessories: Necklaces that you can layer, brightly colored/patterned scarves, maybe a handful of bangles.
From this assortment, you can put together lots of outfits: A tank and skirt for a day at the beach, a tank layered under an open oxford and jacket with jeans and a bunch of necklaces for dinner (plus scarf if it's chilly). You can wear the tank with the oxford (just button the bottom three buttons) tucked into the skirt. Or an oxford layered over the dress and belted. It's endless! And don't forget your sunglasses—and sunscreen."
Contributors
Hayley Kaufman is editor of the Style section.
Rachel Raczka (@rachelraczka) is the lifestyle producer for Boston.com.
