For the longest time, I thought I was destined to be a California girl. I moved to Los Angeles when I was 18 to start college at The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM), and once I felt the Southern California sun on my skin, I was hooked. I love everything about California, from the fact that it is one of the very few places in the United States where you can get mountains, beaches, and the city all in one place to receiving my degree at the then Staples Center. I have years of memories of sneaking into gay bars with friends to drink margaritas and dance to Britney Spears.
California has a special place in my heart. However, I'm coming up on my fifth year of living in New York City, and I have to admit the magic and allure of the Big Apple have won me over. At this point, I'd even go so far as to call myself a bonafide New Yorker. I know "the rule" states I have to live in the city for at least 10 years before I get to hold the title of New Yorker, but I'm on what you'd call the fast track. My time living in both cities has had a huge impact on my sense of style. Los Angeles was all about cool California vibes, lots of denim, flat shoes, and colorful dresses. New York is a bit chicer, with great little black dresses, wedges, heels, and the perfect layering pieces. Lately, I have been replenishing my closet after loads of spring cleaning, and I'm finding so many great basics that my L.A. friends would love just as much as my New York crew.
Keep scrolling to see which basics I think would be a hit on both coasts.
I could live in dresses like this.
Sea-inspired jewelry is everywhere right now.
Levi's 501 jeans are a classic whether you're in New York City or Los Angeles.
This skirt lives in my head rent-free.
Who knew Mango's sunglasses were so chic?
You can't go wrong with a good white tank.
Flats for the fashion set.
This textured slip dress is so good.
The miniskirt of summer.
I'm loving these for summer.
I'm obsessed with this skirt.
The perfect easy dress to throw on, no matter which coast you're on.
These are perfect for a night out in the summer time.
How good is this vest?
I'm all about the cut of this dress.
This beach hat works in Malibu or Montauk.
The perfect top to wear with jeans.
This dress looks so good on everyone, period.
I have a feeling this shape will be everywhere this summer.
East Coast or West Coast, linen pants are a must-have for summer.
How good is this tank top?
Meet your new favorite tee.
Angelinos and New Yorkers alike adore these.
The $10 square-neck top of your dreams.
These give me pop star vibes.
This top would be perfect with linen pants or denim.
Cool hoops you can wear on the daily.
This dress may not match Sofia Richie's dress from The Row exactly, but it's close enough.
The perfect under-$50 ring.
Not your average white tank.
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