A few years ago, I gave up the warm weather and palm trees in Los Angeles and moved to the concrete jungle that is New York City. This was a big move for me. When I first stepped foot in Southern California, I thought I was going to be there forever. I was in love with the California lifestyle, and jeans and open-toed shoes became a part of my everyday uniform. But I knew my fashion dreams were in New York, so I took the leap and moved to the Big Apple. Once I moved, I realized there are many differences between L.A. and NYC, especially when it comes to style.
Of course, New York has all four seasons for starters, but it also has an edgier sense of personal style. But don't worry. Since I spend some time going back and forth from L.A. to NYC, I have found some basics that work no matter which coast you're on. With white tanks paired with blazers and denim, little black dresses, and midi dresses you can wear with sneakers or heeled sandals, I've got you covered.
Keep scrolling for the elevated basics I wear on both coasts.
Jeans
Classic skinny jeans.
Who doesn't love a good pair of Levi's?
The fit of these Re/Done jeans is everything.
Shoes
I'm calling these the "wear everywhere" sandals. They're so comfortable and stylish.
These are the cutest mules ever, and they're super comfortable.
Good loafers can take any look to the next level.
I would pair these with jeans and a white tank.
Okay, I rarely love flat shoes, but I need these ones.
I am obsessed with these platforms. Catch me wearing them on a night out in L.A. or New York.
The slingback sandals of my dreams.
Really into New Balance sneakers lately.
Chic platform sandals that are only $50? I'm adding these to my cart immediately.
How adorable are these slingback pumps?
Tees & Tanks
I live in cotton T-shirts, as they're such a great basic you can wear with essentially anything.
The cut of this tank is so flattering.
Racerback tank tops are quickly becoming the top you'll see on every It girl—trust me.
A black bodysuit is a closet essential.
Pair with a cropped blazer and you're good to go.
Pants
These pants look way more expensive than they are.
Leather leggings are my saving grace, comfortable and stylish.
A good pair of leggings is a must.
Dresses
Dress this up with heeled sandals, or pair it with sneakers for a more casual look.
A midi ribbed tank dress is my spring/summer uniform.
The cowl neckline on this dress is so dreamy.
Perfect dress for a dinner date.
Here for the cutout trend.
Tops & Blouses
Tube tops are my new thing lately.
This is my go-to top when I'm thinking of a "jeans and cute top" look.
All about a good plunge.
A cropped shirt you can wear with jeans, trousers, a miniskirt, or leather pants.
A dainty bustier top perfect for a daytime event.
Blazers
I'm styling this cropped blazer with a racerback tank, relaxed denim, and some heeled mules.
This faux-leather blazer is so chic.
The perfect go-to lightweight blazer.
So flattering and sophisticated.
Skirts
It's the curved hem for me.
I love satin.
The ruching on this skirt is so cute.
A miniskirt you won't want to take off.
Next, check out more shopping guides.
-
I Shop for a Living, and These Are the 15 Pretty Nordstrom Fashion and Beauty Finds in My Cart RNLace-trim skirts, shimmery eye shadows, and more.
-
Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for SummerAll the outfit inspiration is inside.
-
No Need for a Stylist—I Created 7 Fashionable Outfits From Nordstrom for Under $375Easy and effortless looks.
-
OMG, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Preview Is Here—See the List and Shop Items Already on SaleSo many chic deals.
-
I'll Clue You In: Fashion Editors Wear These Nordstrom Brands to Get That Expensive LookYou won't believe how affordable everything is.
-
I'm a Shopping Director, and I Think These Are the 31 Nordstrom Items That Will Sell Out by July 31Popular picks.
-
I'm a Senior Fashion Editor—Meet the 36 Nordstrom Finds I'm Recommending to All My Fashion FriendsI've already heard from at least six satisfied customers.
-
I'm a Professional Shopper—These 37 J.Crew, Banana Republic, Zara, Nordstrom, and Shopbop Items Are GivingFrom pretty tops to cool pants.
