I Just Took a 2-Day Trip to California & These are the 20 Items I Wore!

What to Wear in California

There’s nothing quite like a solo trip to recharge your batteries, right?! I always talk about how you need to take care of yourself to take care of others around you (your kids, husband, house, etc.), and sometimes a little alone time is just what you need! Whether that’s taking a solo trip, a girls trip, or just reading a book for 30 minutes or taking a bath. Last month, I was fortunate to get away for a short trip to California! While I was only there for two days, it was SO nice to soak in the sun, take time for rest and personal development, and see a few friendly faces! Below, I’m sharing the 20 items I packed and wore during that trip to help you prep for your next trip or just give some fun outfit inspo!

What to Wear in California

What to Wear in California for shopping

Look #1) Shopping

This first look is one I wore while I did a little shopping. But you could easily wear this to lunch, to grab coffee, or run some errands. I’m wearing a beautiful pre-layered Brochu Walker sweater. I love that it’s already layered for me so I don’t have to mess around with figuring that out. Plus, it doesn’t add any extra bulk!

I styled it with a pair of AG jeans I’ve had for over a year now. They’re the perfect pair of tapered jeans that aren’t too constricting, but still make me feel secure in the tummy area. They’re also the perfect length for wearing with booties, sandals, sneakers, etc. I styled them with an older pair of Golden Goose sneakers. If you’ve been debating whether or not you should purchase these pricey sneakers, make sure you check out my full review here. I completed the look with some silver jewelry, a brown tote bag, and some sunglasses. This tote is sold out in the exact color but I linked a similar option for you below.

Use code ‘BUSBEESTYLE15’ for 15% off your Brochu Walker purchase…including this gorgeous sweater!

yoga outfit in California

Look #2) Yoga

I knew I would be attending a yoga class while I was there so I brought a super cool activewear jumpsuit by Beyond Yoga. I’ve tried other Beyond Yoga pieces in their signature Spacedye fabric so I knew I wanted to try this Spacedye jumpsuit…and it did not disappoint! I love that it gives complete coverage (no tugging down your tank or pulling up your leggings), it’s a great length, and it’s very supportive and comfortable. I wouldn’t wear it for a high-intensity workout but it’s perfect for yoga or Pilates. Throw on an oversized sweater and some slides for to and from the studio and you’re ready to go!

[flex_row]What to Wear in California winter sweater and jeans outfit[/flex_row][flex_row]karen millen ivory sweater with chain karen millen ivory sweater with chain and jeans[/flex_row]

Look #3) Lunch Meeting

I wore this next look to a lunch meeting. I wanted to look polished and put together but still a little casual for lunch. So, I went with jeans and a sweater but took it up a notch with some elevated pieces. This chunky cashmere turtleneck sweater has a pretty gold chain detail on the shoulder that’s really sexy and cool. I also love that the turtleneck itself isn’t too fitted to the neck, which is something I’ve started avoiding as I’ve gotten older. The dark wash straight-leg jeans by Moussy Vintage are a great basic to have in your wardrobe! They’re super flattering, high-waisted, and a nice length (I’m 5’4”) with heels. With the jeans, I’m wearing a pair of gorgeous white booties that have a cool criss-cross strap detail that gives them a little something extra.

To see how I styled this sweater and booties for the office, make sure you check out this post next!

[flex_row]What to Wear in California coffee run outfit[/flex_row]

Look #4) Coffee

This outfit is one I’d wear running errands or having lunch in my small mountain town in Colorado. But it’s also great for grabbing coffee! I’m wearing a pair of really comfortable James Perse joggers that are unfortunately sold out. But I linked a similar pair by the brand as well as a more affordable option below. But really, you can wear any sort of elevated joggers you already have in your closet (in any color). Then, grab your favorite white tee and throw on a pair of sneakers and you’re ready to go! To elevate it even more, consider tying a sweater around your shoulders, adding a chic handbag and jewelry, and rocking a pair of sunglasses.

For more chic and comfy outfit ideas for hanging out at home or running quick errands, make sure you check out this post next.

[flex_row]What to Wear in California for dinner brochu walker gray lace sweater, cinq a sept black split hem pants[/flex_row]

Look #5) Dinner

For dinner, I wanted to feel comfortable but look sophisticated. I’m wearing another pre-layered Brochu Walker sweater. This one is a pretty dark gray with subtle puff sleeves and gorgeous black lace trim around the neck and hemline. I love how the lace adds a touch of sexy to a cozy piece like a sweater. I paired it with some black pants by Cinq a Sept that have a cool split hem detail that makes them a basic with a twist. Split-hem pants are very on-trend right now so I also recently purchased another pair of split-hem pants by Spanx that are just as chic, but more affordable in case you’re interested (use code ERINXSPANX for 10% off!). To keep my legs looking long and lean, I went with my favorite black sock booties by Stuart Weitzman. But these pants are also great for framing and highlighting a gorgeous statement shoe if that’s more your style.

By the way, you can use code ‘BUSBEESTYLE15’ to get 15% off this sweater!

Which outfit was your favorite? 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5? Let us know in the comments below!

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Erin Busbee signature

1

Elegant Handbag

Looks like many of you started off the year with this classic and elegant handbag. I’m so glad you treated yourself! This bag is unlike any others I own because of the silver hardware. I’ve been wearing more silver jewelry lately and when I do OR when I mix my gold and silver metals, this bag is the one I reach for to tie it all together!
2

Popular Jeans *On-Sale*

These straight-leg jeans by L’Agence have a raw hem, high-rise, and are SO flattering and comfortable too. They are made of a stretchy denim fabric but retain their shape. They're the perfect pair of flared jeans that aren't TOO flared! These jeans are so good this is their second month as a best seller...AND, they are currently on sale at Shopbop (linked) but if you can't find your size, I'm sharing an additional link as well.
3

Pop Of Pink or Red

A cozy sweater in January was pretty much a no-brainer but one in a bright pop of pink is a mood lifter for sure. This Pistola sweater is not only warm, it’s versatile too. You can wear it with your favorite jeans or throw it on over your sports bra and leggings after a workout. This would be perfect for a casual Valentine's Day paired with #2! It also comes in a pretty red.
4

Continued Favorite Chelsea Boot!

These boots have been a popular best-seller for more months (and years!) than I can count. AND they are still going strong! You really can't beat the comfort and the styling options are endless....jeans, skirts, dresses, leggings. If you haven't already tried a lug sole boot, I highly recommend these. They're under $100 and very comfortable with the sock-like ribbed inset. If you already have and love the black, they come in 6 other color options.
5

Cozy Sherpa

If you’ve been here for a while, you know that SAM. is one of my favorite brands when it comes to puffers. They’re incredibly warm and the quality is A++. I also love the details like thick heavy zippers and extra pockets. This sherpa jacket is available in a couple of sizes and I also found a few similar options available in all sizes so I linked them all for you. I love the black and brown color combo!
6

*BONUS* Feminine Blouse

A pretty, light-colored blouse like this Sandro tie-neck number will carry you through spring. It's another example of an elevated wardrobe staple. The high, tie-neck, pleated front, and detail at the sleeves are so feminine. You can leave the tie open to show a little more décolleté or tie it closed for a day at the office. It is sheer so you’ll need a cami to wear underneath. The cut is very forgiving but for a more fitted look just half-tuck it into your trousers or jeans.

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  2. Rita says:

    Erin always looks gorgeous, elevated, stylish and she is beautiful inside as well as outside. I love all of her looks.

  3. Emily Tipton says:

    Wondering if the First Look would be acceptable for sight-seeing in London and/or Paris in Spring time?

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