Los Angeles
Dec 2, 2022

I Just Moved From NYC to L.A., and I'm Updating My Wardrobe With These 28 Items

by Chichi Offor

A few months ago, I packed up the life I'd been building in New York City for the last five years to head out west to Los Angles. I'd visited L.A. a few times prior to the big cross-country move. However, once I landed here, it became abundantly clear that my wardrobe could use some filling in. Since I'm sure I'm not the only person embracing the casual, understated L.A. vibes, I thought I'd bring you along while I shop for key pieces to upgrade my wardrobe and get West Coast ready.

I'm tackling all categories, which includes snagging the perfect pair of jeans and getting some wear-with-everything sandals. Los Angeles is a lot cooler at times than I initially expected, so I have to make sure I have a cardigan, a jacket, and other layer-friendly pieces. Ahead, scroll through some of my Los Angeles–specific clothing picks.

H&M Fine-Knit Cardigan

Fine-Knit Cardigan

A handy-dandy emotional-support cardigan.

H&M Lacing-Detail Shirt Dress

Lacing-Detail Shirt Dress

For the days when I miss NYC.

H&M Poplin Shirt

A staple you can never have enough of.

H&M Smocked Top

When you want to dress up without trying too hard.

H&M Biker Jacket

No one really tells you how cold L.A. can get sometimes. Be prepared.

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love High Rise 80s Mom Jean

Abercrombie & Fitch

Curve Love High Rise 80s Mom Jean

A solid pair of jeans is a must in the land of denim.

H&M Rugby Crop Shirt

Rugby Crop Shirt

Stripes, stripes, stripes!

Wray Tyler Top in Cloud

Tyler Top in Cloud

Smocked details for the win.

GIA/Irl Sofia

A go-to occasion dress that can be worn in both formal and casual environments.

Good American Modern Tank Scuba Thong Bodysuit

Modern Tank Scuba Thong Bodysuit

You can never have enough white tank tops.

H&M Smocked Top

A date-night top.

Thistle and Spire Chelsea Bodysuit

Thistle and Spire

Chelsea Bodysuit

A sexy and stylish going-out top.

Year of Ours Veronica Leggings

Veronica Leggings

You can never have too many pairs of black leggings.

Athleta Conscious Crop Cut Out Bra D-DD

Conscious Crop Cut Out Bra D-DD

A workout top that can also just be a cute everyday top.

Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation 7/8 Tight

Ultra High Rise Elation 7/8 Tight

A matching pair of leggings to keep up with all the chic movement classes.

Remi x Revolve Chloe Faux Leather Blazer

Chloe Faux Leather Blazer

A great piece for adding fun texture and giving any look a little more flair.

Diarrablu Zany Top

Voluminous sleeves take this to the next level.

Coach Luna Soft Pebble Leather Shoulder Bag

Luna Soft Pebble Leather Shoulder Bag

A great everyday bag that's understated but incredibly chic.

Coach Charter Backpack in Refined Pebbled Leather

Charter Backpack in Refined Pebbled Leather

A perfect personal item when I'm visiting my NY pals.

Birkenstock Florida Birko-Flor Sandal

Florida Birko-Flor Sandal

A solid pair of sandals is a must.

Forever 21 Basic Organically Grown Cotton Tee

Basic Organically Grown Cotton Tee

A perfectly cropped black tee is *chef's kiss*.