As an L.A. transplant who moved from New York City three years ago, I feel like I'm just now beginning to understand the West Coast dress code. Yes, there's a lot more athleisure you see while out and about (which makes sense for a city that seemingly revolves around hiking and Pilates classes), but I find that, at its core, L.A. dressing is about evoking a certain effortlessness with your outfits. The longer I live here, the more I realize my style is more closely aligned with L.A., and I've been sure of the pieces I wear now more than ever—certainly more than when I lived in NYC, where I was always second-guessing my ensemble before leaving my apartment.
When it comes to everyday pieces, I always look at what Zara has to offer. The retailer has great prices, plus the styles I've bought are ones I wear over and over. I still have a shirt from the store that's almost a decade old. Below, you'll find 32 items from the site that I'm hoping to relocate into my fashion-editor closet. And because my style's changed so much since my move from NYC, they all also fit seamlessly with the L.A. fashion scene, whether you're in Santa Monica or Silverlake. From knee-high boots and shoulder bags to wide-leg jeans and cardigans, each of the forthcoming designs had me reaching for my wallet. (I am in the middle of a closet overhaul, after all.) Keep shopping for my most coveted Zara picks right now.
ZARA
Zw Collection Tailored Blazer
This structured blazer is such a cool piece.
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Cashmere Blend Plain Knit Cardigan
You can never have too many cardigans.
ZARA
Leather Belt With Oval Buckle
I used to never wear belts, and now I really see the use—especially when you're layering with a cropped white tank top.
ZARA
Trf High Rise Wide Leg Jeans
I know low-rise jeans are back in, but I still love me a pair of high-waisted pants. Don't come for me!
ZARA
Asymmetric Soft Suede Bucket Bag
Even though suede is harder to take care of, I have such a soft spot for it—especially on a bag like this.
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Double Faced Jacket Zw Collection
A lined jacket that adds some texture is always a yes in my book.
This color is really speaking to me.
ZARA
Suede Leather Mini Skirt Zw Collection
This tobacco-brown shade is so good.
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Wide Heeled Leather Boots
Knee-high boots are always a go-to of mine.
This dress is even prettier in person, if you can believe it.
This looser-fitting cable-knit is such a good style.
Elevate your winter look with some pleated pants in this trendy burgundy shade.
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Slingback Buckle Shoes
Slingbacks are so much better than pumps in my opinion. These buckle ones are very chic.
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Plain Knit Bomber Jacket
When you mix a bomber jacket with a cardigan, you get this cozy knit jacket.
The shape and burgundy hue of this shoulder bag is one I'll wear over and over again this season.
This gray vest is such a classic, and it looks so elevated with the matching skirt.
Shop the matching Basic Knit Midi Skirt ($46).
Miniskirts and a sweater are a classic pair and made for those L.A. nights.
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Split Leather Kitten Heeled Ankle Boots
This shade is everything.
ZARA
Double Strap Bucket Bag
A simple black bucket bag will truly stand the test of time. Plus, this price point isn't half bad.
ZARA
Wool Blend Coat Zw Collection
Los Angeles can still get pretty cold, so a wool coat is always a good item to keep in your closet.
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Long Checkered Skirt
This plaid skirt is really speaking to me, especially with a brown sweater and chunky boots.
ZARA
Basic Soft Knit Sweater
I always try to stock up on crewneck sweaters when the weather gets a little chilly.
ZARA
Washed Interlock Dress
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Patch Pocket Z1975 Denim Shirt
A denim shirt will go with so many things in your wardrobe, trust me.
I'm eyeing these suede flats to switch up my usual leather ones.
When those Santa Ana winds act up in L.A., you'll be glad you're wearing a skort.
ZARA
Soft Feel Ribbed Pants
For the days when you don't want to wear jeans, I suggest gravitating toward these ribbed pants.
ZARA
Oversized Pinstripe Blazer
Can never say no to pinstripes.
Sometimes the day calls for a preppy look, and this pleated skort will help you get there.