In one of her hit songs, Katy Perry famously sings about California girls wearing Daisy Dukes (true) and bikinis on top (not always). But if you’re wondering what else besides killer cutoffs are the other hallmarks of quintessential California style, we’re here to help: more cool denim; great basic tees and tanks; breezy boho silhouettes; and a healthy mix of '90s grunge and '70s surf and sport culture.
Because the Cali look is always in style, we rounded up TK brands who have the West Coast vibe on lock. From Wildfox Couture to Band of Outsiders, these are the places to shop to nail down the laid-back look.
Click through for the brands that epitomize SoCal style.
Wildfox could best be described as the Lana Del Rey aesthetic: retro California coquette. In addition to floaty dresses, the brand is known for playful loungewear, like slouchy oversized tees and sweatshirts emblazoned with Lolita-esque imagery (hearts, stars, and lollipops).
Wildfox Marissa Boyfriend Jeans ($178) in Poetry
Wildfox Ladonna Denim Overalls ($268) in Idol
Wildfox Cosy Cardigan ($255) in Morning Mist
Chill, minimal, cool—all words that characterise both California style and the hip Los Angeles-founded label that features separates with a decidedly tomboy feel.
Band of Outsiders Boxy Shirt With Multi Plaid Gussets ($355) in Light Blue
Band of Outsiders Broken B Cardigan ($525)
Band of Outsiders Silk-Satin Twill Dress ($675)
No California closet is complete without denim staples from the iconic American company. The 501 style is infamous for shaping your behind perfectly, and a Levi’s denim jacket is a classic wardrobe staple.
Levi's 501 Shorts ($40) in Slash
Levi's Authentic Trucker Jacket ($45) in Rosebud Blue
Levi's Perfectly Slimming Straight Jeans ($37) in Western Light
When you want to embrace your inner flower child, Free People is the go-to brand. From old-school aviators to flute-shaped sleeves and flirty hemlines, the brand epitomizes the free spirit of California in the ‘60s.
Free People Float Away Romper ($128) in Slate
Free People People Romance Embroidered Maxi ($198) in White
Free People Fever Aviator ($18) in Gold
Founded by two California-bred friends, Stone Cold Fox makes dreamy pieces ideal for the vintage-minded beach babe. Think: intricate lace maxis and lingerie-inspired rompers.
Stone Cold Fox Boston Gown ($355) in Black
Stone Cold Fox Bonita Dress ($280) in Blush
Stone Cold Fox Tennessee Dress ($417) in Black
Reformation is the sartorial intersection between unfussy L.A. style and casual French elegance—if Jane Birkin met ‘90s Liv Tyler. Oversized blazers, cropped turtlenecks, and floral skater dresses abound.
Reformation Mars Dress ($118) in Bobcat
Reformation Valentina Skirt ($148) in Black
Reformation Holden Tee ($98) in MirageWhat does California style mean to you? We want to know!
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