California Dreaming: What to Pack

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you saw that I was in LA recently. This was my first time heading out to the west coast and I was beyond excited. However, after spending a long and dreary winter in NYC, I had no idea what I was going to need clothing-wise. In my mind I was thinking higher temps = shorts and tank tops. Well friends, it turns out that spring in L.A. isn’t as warm as you’d think.

Keep reading to check out what I packed in my Calpak carry-on. (Quick side note, I’m obsessed with my Calpak carry-on luggage. I ordered the rose gold color and it’s seriously so nice! It’s large enough that I was able to pack everything I needed, but small enough where I didn’t feel like I was hauling around a huge suitcase. Plus, the 360 wheels are a dream! I treated myself with this purchase and cannot wait to add the large suitcase to my collection. Not an ad, just a fan!)

Day One Outfit:

This Free People dress was perfect for LA spring weather. Now, if you know me, you know that I have gotten wayyyy too comfortable with midi length silhouettes. This girl only shows her knees on special occasions. But honestly, I couldn’t resist how cute this mini was. It has long sleeves, but is still short and flirty. Also, it’s in that bright green color I’m currently obsessed with. I paired it with white sneakers, a straw purse and a jean jacket for a casual look. This piece will easily transition into summer with some cute sandals, so I know I’ll get several wears out of it!

Shop this look below!

Day Two Outfit:

This Spell & Gypsy dress was the perfect dress for the poppy fields. I knew we were planning on visiting the poppy fields, so I wanted something flowy with a similar color scheme. This dress has such a romantic silhouette – maxi length with smocked off the shoulder bodice and ruffle. The fabric is also super soft. It’s lightweight (very breathable), but not see-through. I paired this with simple sandals since we would be walking around a bit. I’m wearing Steve Madden’s “Donddi” sandals and they are so comfortable! This is the third pair I’ve bought because I basically wear them 24/7 in the spring/summer – they go with everything! I completed the look with a faux braid (v. complicated – my baby hairs won’t stay in a regular braid) and large floral earrings. I cannot get over how whimsical and dreamy this dress is (swoon)!

Shop my dress here – limited sizes available!

Similar from this collection linked below:

Day Three Outfit:

The temps were a little cooler on this day, so I was happy I brought my jeans! These Levi’s were comfortable for walking around all day and the rips & holes gave them a laid-back vibe. I paired this with a simple, linen t-shirt. I love this Zara linen top because it gives a basic piece a little something extra. If you haven’t checked out Zara’s latest linen collection, you have to. (So many amazing pieces!!) I wore my straw purse and a Madewell hair scarf to complete the look. Once again, so obsessed with hair accessories. You can check out my favorites in my post here.

Similar items linked below!

Day Three Outfit Change:

We did a quick outfit change and headed to the Venice Canals. This 1901 Nordstrom striped dress looks so fresh in green and white. It has a girly touch with the shoulder bows, but can be made casual with a pair of sneakers. I paired my Keds with this for a cute, easy-going look.

Shop this look below – also, this dress is 50% off at Nordstrom (yasss)! I recommend sizing down! My Keds are linked earlier in this post.

Day Four Outfit:

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Our final day was spent at the beach! Thankfully it warmed up a bit so we could get some sun. I packed my new Lively bikini from their Garden Swim Series. Their new swimwear features beautiful tropical flowers in a stunning green color (there seems to be a theme here). This print also comes in a one-piece and a different bikini style. I recommend checking out their swimwear line – Lively’s styles are flattering and stylish! I added a little glam with large floral earrings. Also, a scrunchie is key for throwing up beach hair. (So happy these made a comeback!)

Check out Lively’s line here! My floral earrings are linked earlier in this post.

Thanks for checking out my L.A. spring must-haves! I did surprisingly well considering I’ve never visited! Layers are definitely key since spring weather can be unpredictable.

Thank you for reading and keep exploring!

xoxo,

Katelynn

*I may receive a small commission for purchases made through links