What To Pack For San Diego, California

TRAVEL STYLE  ·  10 MAY 2011

What To Wear in Sunny Southern California

A not so wise man once said San Diego was named after a whale’s nether region, but regardless of the origins of this city’s namesake, this surfer’s paradise is one cool and fun place to be. A lot of my family lives in Southern California, so I look for any excuse to travel to the west coast to soak up plenty of fun under the sun. 

If you look to one suitcase essential, a strappy silk dress will take you from afternoons walking in downtown San Diego to evening alfresco drinks in La Jolla - just add a bit of bling like sparkling earrings or this bracelet from Suzanna Dai. People tend to dress pretty casually in San Diego, but they almost always have a pop of color somewhere in their ensembles. This teal and pink woven belt is made by hand in Peru and is a perfect accessory for your Southern California outfits. I like to wear it with a neutral Equipment shirt, cuffed olive shorts, and gladiator sandals. But this colorful belt also works with a pair of dark denim jeans and a sweater for chillier nights spent on the coast. 

When I travel, I always bring a slightly larger bag with me. I fill up my handbag with all the necessary essentials for Southern California: sunnies, sunscreen, and a swimsuit - you never know when there's an opportunity to jump into the water.  

Aritzia Nina Dress // Andean Collection Thin Inspiration Belt // Suzanna Dai Malé Cuff // Fred Flare Sweetheart Sunnies // Alexandra Satine Brickel Bag