My Observations of California Fashion

I just got back from a week in northern California.  I was super excited to go because I was visiting family that I hadn't seen in a long time (and some I'd never met!) I was almost as excited about the clothes.  In case you didn't know, fashion trends start on the coasts and filter inward over time.  So by the time Uggs got really popular here- remember that?  Cali girls had been rocking them for a few seasons.  So I was totally psyched to be on the front lines of trendiness.  (Is that a word?)  Keep in mind I was in northern CA, so not really the epicenter of new trends, but a LOT closer than Illinois for sure.  Also, these are just my observations I made in the small amount of time and limited area I covered during that week. 

Floral Prints

Pretty floral patterns were everywhere.  Very subdued, nothing like the early '90s florals that were all-consuming and overpowering.  Here is the example that came home with me: 

Feathers: Everywhere!

If you remember, I recently wrote a post about feather hair extensions.  Well, they have those- and so much more.  Earrings, necklaces, purses, bracelets, shoes.... the list goes on and on.  Peacock feathers are the biggest hit (more on those coming soon!) and get the most play, but I brought home something a little simpler: 

Long dresses and bold patterns

Not always together, though.  Long dresses are everywhere.  And I mean floor length long.  The nice thing about the style is that depending on the cut, they can be flattering on almost any body type.  One other thing I noticed very prevalent was bold patterns.  Think '80s but toned down a little. I brought home a piece that brings both trends together: 

(please ignore the sunburn/tan lines- those are NOT trendy!)

  Toms Shoes

Before going to CA, I had heard of this company but never actually seen the shoes in person.   Toms Shoes Website The company is pretty cool, they have a program called the One for One Movement and for every pair of shoes sold, they will donate a pair to a child in need around the world.  I had mixed feelings about the shoes.  I think they are ugly.  The look like boating shoes.  Which is cool, if your boating.  I got over my fear of looking a little funny and tried some on.  They are the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn.  Its like walking on a pillow.  I had to have a pair.  I can get over the odd look of them.  Plus, it's not often that trendy=comfortable so I take advantage when the opportunity arises. Since arriving back in Peoria, I have only seen one other pair of Toms.  Here are mine:  

There were a few other trends I noticed that I didn't bring back from the coast.  For a reason.  One of those was see through, lacy shirts over tube tops or bikini tops.  Since I wear neither, that one didn't apply to me.  Remember ladies, even if it's fashionable, that doesn't make it advisable.  Beach wear is also very popular there.  Similar to the kinds of things we would see in a Pac Sun store, but it's everywhere.  There are tons of beachwear shops.  Lots of loose, flowy tanks (to fit over your bikini top) and itty bitty shorts.  Since there are no beaches where I am from, I passed on those trends.  And also because me and itty bitty shorts are a big NO!!

Always Fabulous,