Somehow, this month marks a year since I moved across the country to Los Angeles. Sure, it took me a minute to get used to sitting in traffic at virtually any time of day, but I quickly fell for the sunshine—and, of course, the style. As a former New Yorker who rarely wears black, the city’s laid-back, playful fashion scene instantly struck a chord with me. And come summer, fashion folks seem to up the ante, embracing a handful of bold, eye-catching microtrends. Eager to refresh my warm-weather wardrobe, I’ve been taking note of the buzzy looks Los Angeles It girls have been gravitating toward lately.
After months of observing them in the wild, I’ve rounded up six microtrends that are currently omnipresent in Los Angeles. Some may already be sitting in your closet (hello, thong sandals), while others you likely retired in the late aughts (two words: tube tops). Consider them the secret sauce for spicing up your summer outfits.
Bug-Eye Sunglasses
Though futuristic-looking sunglasses have been all the rage these past few seasons, a new silhouette is nipping at its heels: bug-eye frames. Exactly as the name suggests, the look features oversized, rounded lenses designed to resemble insect eyes. For an easy entry point into the trend, opt for a slightly smaller frame.
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Tube Tops
When was the last time you heard the words tube tops? A decade ago? Maybe even two? Well, you’re about to start seeing the Y2K staple everywhere this summer—at least in Los Angeles. Give the trend a modern spin by pairing it with straight-leg jeans and luxe slides.
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Camo Pants
The camo pants trend has been on the rise recently, and it’s officially hit its stride in Los Angeles. Well-dressed locals have been embracing the bottoms in all their edgy, utilitarian glory—and I’ve been following suit, rotating between two pairs in my own closet.
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Printed Slip Dresses
A one-and-done slip dress is a wardrobe MVP. This summer in L.A., printed styles are gaining ground—think florals, ombré, and polka dots. Thanks to its inherently chic vibe, a patterned slip dress doesn’t require much accessorizing; a pair of strappy heels will do.
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Thong Sandals
Flip-flops are currently clacking up and down the streets of Los Angeles. But not just any flip-flops—locals seem to favor elevated takes on the look, often stepping out in sleek leather pairs. (That said, don’t kick your rubber looks to the curb just yet—they’re still very much in style.)
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Fringe Scarves
Scarves have been enjoying a moment in the sun this past year, and that doesn’t seem to be changing anytime soon. In Southern California, fringe styles are the look du jour, often worn around the waist atop slouchy trousers.
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