I’m a Fashion Editor—Here’s Everything I Wore in Santa Monica (And What I’d Leave Behind)

Let’s just say this: I didn’t pack light. But I did pack smart.
Over four days in Santa Monica, I changed outfits like I was living in my own Netflix miniseries—writing by day, shopping in between, and swapping sneakers for sandals on the fly. Some days I changed twice (okay, most days). But the best part? I actually wore everything I packed.

Side Note: If you like the trousers in the image above you can shop them here

From comfy airport outfits to “I need a mirror selfie right now” looks, here’s the full breakdown—including what I wore, where I wore it, and what was actually worth packing.

P.S. I linked everything I could find (or a similar dupe). Some of these are Amazon MVPs, others were Ross and Old Navy wins. And yes, there’s a black dress I basically lived in.

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DAY ONE: ARRIVAL + GROVE RUN

This was the outfit I flew in and out with,ultra comfy but still cute enough to grab a matcha at the airport. The Old Navy leggings ran a little big, so maybe size down (or maybe I lost a few pounds?!). Either way, still worth it.

Flight Fit (and Departure Day Look):

Amazon

Graphic Hoodies Pullover Sweater

$29.99

Old Navy

High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8 Pocket Leggings

$29.99

Black Old Navy Leggings- I reviewed these leggings in this post

New Balance

Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Tiralux

$74.99

Coach

Ace Tote 30, Tan Rust

$495

Travelers Club Richmond Collection 20" Carry-On

$50

Got this on Amazon Prime Day suitcase steal ($30? Yes please.)

Look Two: Grove Outfit

Wore this for an afternoon at The Grove. Grabbed lunch at the Farmers Market and restocked my Fenty bronzer + drops. Simple, breezy, perfect for walking around.

Amazon

Swimsuit Coverup Shirt Dress

$34.99

Amazon

Tennis Dress with Built in Shorts and Bra

$36.99

Amazon

Adjustable Double Strap Slip on Leather Footbed Sandals

$45.99

DAY TWO: EXPRESS SHOOT + DINNER

I wore this for a content shoot and never looked back. I’ve washed, worn, and re-worn this dress so many times, it basically has a loyalty punch card.

Morning Look:

Express

Midi Dress (my real ride-or-die)

$98

Featured this look and more bonus travel looks in this article

Outfit Change – Work + Sushi

Comfy and cool. We grabbed sushi that night, and I felt casual but still put-together thanks to that belt. One of my favorite low-effort combos of the trip.

Amazon

Oversized Sweatshirts

$42.99

Old Navy

Extra High-Waisted Mariner Wide-Leg Pants

$44.99

These are similar to the ones I have on. Unfortunately the exact ones I have were found in store and I can never find them online. But when I do I will update this.

Amazon

Cowgirl Gold Chain Belt

$14.99

DAY THREE: BEACHY + LAYERED

Morning Walk Fit:

I’m a big believer in walkable outfits. Threw this on to grab coffee and take a quick solo stroll before getting ready for the day.

Old Navy

High-Waisted Baggy Jean Shorts -- 5-inch inseam

$39.99

Amazon

Loose Fit California and Los Angeles Fleece Sweatshirts

$29.99

New Balance

Women's Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe

$69.99

Midday Look:

Same trousers, new vibe. This outfit felt elevated and effortless—like a “CEO on a solo retreat” moment.

Amazon

Button Down Shirt

$27.99

Wide Leg Casual Pants

$37.99

Beach Look:

This dress was a last-minute Amazon order and totally delivered. I wore it over my swimsuit, but honestly? It’s cute enough to wear out to brunch.

Amazon

Tennis Golf Dresses with Built in Shorts and Pockets

$35.99

DAY FOUR: WORK MODE

Literally everything in this photo is from Amazon. I was deep in writing mode, but still felt like myself style-wise—which always helps the creativity flow.

Amazon

Barrel Jeans Wide Leg

$39.99

Amazon

Oversized T Shirt

$19.99

CASETiFY

Impact MacBook Air 13-inch (M1/Intel) Case

$60

Bonus Look: Donut Run

This was my “I deserve a donut” outfit. Walked to Sidecar Donuts in Santa Monica and felt cute enough to make it a whole morning.

Amazon

Embroidered Pearl Denim Jean Jacket Coat

$38.69

Amazon

Woven Bag Shopper Bag

$69.99

Honorable Mention: Rewear Combo

Graphic Tee + Olive Cargo Pants Again
Wore this combo again for another work sprint. If I love something, I rewear it unapologetically. Especially on solo trips.

Amazon

Women Linen Palazzo Pants

$35.99