Los Angeles’s sunny metropolis is for more than just movie stars; it boasts impressive art, fashion and culinary scenes. With so much to do, from relaxing on Malibu’s tranquil beaches to shopping in tony Beverly Hills, consider this your guide on looking California cool in the City of Angels.
Hollywood glamour
The Beverly Hills Hotel is one of Los Angeles’s most iconic institutions, where famous movie stars (like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor) briefly took up residence, and where power lunches in The Palm resulted in historic film deals. And today, it remains one of the most see-and-be-seen places in the city. Come to bask in its history and enjoy lunch or cocktails at the ‘Pink Palace’ — its palm-frond-printed pool cabanas make the perfect Instagram backdrop.
SoCal shopping
Upscale shopping is everywhere, from the palm-tree-lined designer haven of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills to the hip boutiques on Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice. For the quintessential Los Angeles experience, head to the city’s most popular department store, Fred Segal. Upstairs, independent boutique Ron Herman sells runway pieces from designers like Acne Studios and Ulla Johnson. For design aficionados, Maxfield Gallery — a collection of boutiques all housed in a chic, minimalistic building — offers furniture, sought-after art, designer fashion, jewelry and watches, plus an impressive collection of vintage Hermès bags.
West Coast style
Each of the city’s neighborhoods has its own distinct style, but no matter where you are, the weather is warm and the sun shines brightly. Look for local designers who are tuned into the city’s laid-back yet glamorous style. Breezy pieces, like a ruffled, lace dress from stylist-turned-designer Rachel Zoe or a chambray shirt from sustainably made brand Outerknown, are ideal for shopping around town, while a printed swimsuit from Marysia is perfect for the beach. Top off any look with a pair of Oliver Peoples sunglasses. There is also exquisite craftsmanship in the city. George Esquivel handcrafts every pair of shoes in his atelier in Orange County, and he also makes custom pieces. Vram designs and creates sensational jewelry; we love these gorgeous yellow-gold and diamond hoop earrings.
Women’s Style
Rachel Zoe Violet fil coupé gown, $695, shoprachelzoe.com
Vram Chrona mini hoop earrings in 18K yellow gold with .43 carats diamond, $3,900, Maxfield in Los Angeles, +1 310 274 8800, vramjewelry.com
Marysia Antibes top, $141, Antibes bottoms, $141, marysia.com
Men’s Style
Outerknown Walker chambray shirt, $78, outerknown.com
Oliver Peoples OP-506 sunglasses, $460, oliverpeoples.com
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George Esquivel Dandy suede shoes, $495, esquivelshoes.com
