Since Moving to L.A. I've Been Hiking Nonstop—See the Cute Pieces I've Collected

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(Image credit: @michelleinfusino)

New Yorkers like to go to the park to relax, people in Miami like to head to the beach, and Los Angelenos love to hike. And since moving to L.A. over a year ago, I've been hiking like it's my second job. Nothing is more rejuvenating and relaxing than a long (or short) trek away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It gives you time to think and take in the views. Plus, it's a fun, refreshing way to hit that daily goal of 10,000 steps. I'm far from an expert hiker, but I do consider myself an expert in knowing what cute and functional outfits to wear. 

As revitalizing as hiking can be, it can quickly take a wrong turn if you're not properly prepared with all the essential gear (think a water bottle, some sort of navigation, sunscreen, and snacks) or dressed in appropriate attire, the latter of which I'm here to help with today. When it comes to figuring out what to wear hiking, always make comfort and protection from the sun your primary goals. That means a good pair of walking shoes (sneakers or hiking boots are always a safe bet), nonrestrictive and moisture-wicking attire, a baseball cap, and sunglasses are definite musts when piecing together a good outfit.

The below pieces are my definitive essentials when conquering the trails. Whether it's an easy route or a path a little more complex, these will get you through it in the most stylish way possible.

Activewear Sets

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Hiking can work up a sweat depending on which trail you take, so in cases of unpredictability, I always like to reach for an exercise set. While super-sleek leggings have their place, I prefer more breathable materials with moisture-wicking properties. 

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Sneakers

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(Image credit: @endlesslyloveclub)

It's pretty self-evident why proper sneakers are a must before embarking on a trail. Choosing the right pair can make or break the experience.

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Sweatsuits

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(Image credit: @discodaydream)

Since nighttime hikes are a thing in L.A. and the city is almost like a desert, a warmer option is necessary. Here's where a cool sweatsuit enters the picture. It'll also seamlessly carry you to the after-hike breakfast or brunch.

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Athletic Separates

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(Image credit: @idabroen)

Dressing in sets certainly saves some time, but I also like to rely on a collection of sporty staples to elevate or add function to an outfit. From jackets to sports bras, these are great pieces to build your athletic wardrobe.

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Accessories

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The clothing is just one part of dressing up for a successful hike—things like sunglasses, hats, hip bags, and more are equally crucial. Below are a few of my favorites.

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Next up: I Love a Chic Athleisure Look—I'm Adding TheseReplica Store Items to My Cart Now

Fashion Market Editor

Indya Brown is a fashion editor, stylist, and writer living in Los Angeles. While going to school at Columbia University in New York City, she got her feet wet in the fashion industry interning at Elle magazine, Harper's Bazaar, and New York magazine's The Cut. After graduating in 2016, she joined The Cut as a fashion assistant, eventually working her way up to fashion editor. There, she worked on a multitude of projects, including styling inbook feature stories for New York magazine's print issue, writing and pitching market stories for The Cut, and serving as fashion lead for The Cut's branded content. While New York has been her home for over 10 years, she moved to Los Angeles in the midst of the pandemic in 2020 for a new chapter. Now she is a fashion market editor forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , focusing on emerging designers, rising trends on and off the internet, interior design, and BIPOC creatives and brands. Aside from her duties as a fashion market editor, Brown is also a freelance stylist and writer, working on national print and video commercial campaigns for Sephora, The Independent, and Cadillac. Her bylines also include Harper's Bazaar, Vox, and The New York Times. But once the computer goes down and the emails turn off, she's likely eating her way through Koreatown, hunting down vintage furniture, scoping out new outrageous nail designs to try, or taking a hot cycling class.