Published on Feb 28, 2025 at 3:35 PM
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I've been enamored with Los Angeles for as long as I can remember. I first visited the area as a young child — my parents took me to Disneyland because for '90s kids, there truly was no greater place on Earth. It's been an ongoing love affair ever since, whether I was window-shopping in Venice in my early 20s, driving down the PCH after celebrating a career milestone, or discovering new parts of the city well into my 30s.
I recently stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, where I indulged in a tranquility massage, an IV drip, and plenty of poolside relaxation. The property is located outside LA city limits, providing a picturesque spot to perch for a few days that feels just-far-enough from all the hustle and bustle.
Los Angeles has a little something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a group getaway or a solo adventure. Whether you're a foodie looking for your next memorable meal, a vacationer ready to cozy up with a good beach read, or a wellness devotee who values a spa day, there's lots to explore in this expansively diverse metropolis.
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Best Packing Tips For Los Angeles
This Southern California city is known for its great weather year-round. Temperatures tend to average out in the 70s, so regardless of when you visit, you're likely to enjoy a bit of sunshine and a cool breeze coming in from the Pacific Ocean. In the summer, temperatures can climb and in the winter, they may dip into the 40s and 50s, with more chances of rain.
You'll want to pack breathable layers and fabrics that can take you from the beaches to the hills to the city all in one day. Think: linen blouses and bottoms (I'm a fan of skirts and shorts), plus cotton crewneck sweaters to toss over your favorite sundresses. Broken-in walking shoes are a must (especially if you plan to hit the city's famous hiking trails), as are sleek sandals that work for grabbing brunch or lounging poolside. As always, have plenty of sun protection on hand.
No matter what brings you to La La Land, here's what I suggest stashing in your suitcase for a memorable LA getaway. (And as an added bonus, all items on the list are from women-owned brands!)
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Some Gorgeous Gloss
Tower 28 ShineOn Lip Jelly in Cashew ($16)
When I don't feel like putting on a full face of makeup, a little bit of glistening lip gloss goes a long way. Before catching a Dodgers game at Dodger Stadium, I stashed this cult favorite in my pocket. I applied a few swipes once I got there, and it delivered just the right amount of sheen to glam up my otherwise casual look. Even better? The formula is hydrating without being thick or goopy, so you can layer it over lipsticks for a bolder finish.
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A Trusty Mascara
Ere Perez Avocado Waterproof Mascara ($29)
I truly believe if you've got a good gloss (ahem, see above) and a solid smudge-free mascara, your beauty look doesn't need much else. I've tried more mascaras than I care to admit, and most of them have left me frustrated in one way or another. From chaotic clumps to post-cry catastrophes, there's always some minor inconvenience to manage. That is, until I came across this wondrous waterproof mascara from the Aussie beauty brand Ere Perez, which stays put no. matter. what. I wore this from day to night during my trip to LA and never detected so much as a single black spot on my eyelid.
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A Hair Spritz
Ouai Wave Spray ($30)
I've got super long hair so I can't be bothered with time-intensive hairstyles when I'm on the go. Since my hair texture is naturally wavy, I lean into that vibe by letting my hair air dry, then adding this delicious-smelling Ouai wave spray into the mix. With a few spritzes and scrunches, I've got flowy waves that might trick you into thinking I've been surfing all day (but really, I've been noshing on lobster rolls while hanging beachside at Malibu Farm).
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A Skin Refresh
Golde Clean Greens Face Mask ($34)
After a cross-country flight, my skin frequently feels dry and dull. To give it a spa-like experience in a fraction of the time, I use this rejuvenating mask that's like a green smoothie for your face. I notice that any redness is immediately minimized, leaving my complexion looking brighter and more naturally radiant.
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A Cool Crossbody
Béis The Sport Pack ($48)
This might seem like the last thing you'd expect a fashion editor to say, but I really don't like carrying purses and tote bags. At some point in the last few years, I became obsessed with crossbody styles, specifically fanny packs, because I wanted the least unwieldy option that still lets me keep my essentials on hand. I adore this one from Béis, which has a phone pocket, card holder, and key leash, so everything has its own dedicated spot, even in this small package. It's perfect for hitting up the many hiking trails in LA, from Griffith Park to Runyon Canyon.
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Everyday Leggings
Reprise Aspen Leggings ($102, originally $120)
In my dreams, I'm the kind of person who sports a runway-ready lewk as I walk through LAX. But alas, I am most definitely not that person, and I require comfort 24/7 above all else. That's why I own an ungodly number of these leggings from Reprise and wear them anytime I travel. The fabric composition is mostly Tencel™ Lyocell, a material made from wood, which explains why they're sooo comfy to wear, unlike leggings made with synthetic fibers. My go-to airport 'fit usually includes these leggings, a loose button-up blouse layered over a cotton tank top, and easy-to-walk-in sneakers.
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A Statement-Making Skirt
Rujuta Sheth Leila Skirt in Picnic Chex ($148, originally $248)
I'm generally not into "touristy" attractions, but as a big film and TV buff, going on a studio tour has long been on my bucket list. I finally got the chance to tour Sony Studios, which did not disappoint. I learned so much about some of my favorite movies and shows, and even saw the set of "Jeopardy!". While athleisure would have been a perfectly practical option, I wanted something dressier, so I chose this mesmerizing maxi skirt by Rujuta Sheth and paired it with a white linen top and suede green Adidas Sambas.
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A Cute Carry-On
Monos x Sincerely Jules Metro Tote in Cactus ($235)
Confession: I've been rocking with the same black weekender and slate gray carry-on for years. While I love this monochromatic combo, I'm determined to switch up my luggage look more often. Enter: this eye-catching tote from the Monos x Sincerely Jules collab. Since influencer Julie Sariñana is from LA, it's no surprise that this tote turned out to be the ideal carry-on companion for my trip. The lovely green shade is a nod to the lush Southern California landscape, and the roomy interior comfortably fits my laptop, magazines/books, charger cables, and more. As someone who always needs her emotional support water bottle nearby, my favorite feature is the interior water bottle pocket, which keeps it nice and snug, minimizing the risk of spillage.
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A Metallic Mule
Hanifa Solana Mule Sandals ($299)
For dinner at The Restaurant at Hotel Bel-Air, the dress code leans more formal with a slightly trendy touch. The property rests on several acres of lush green landscaping, and the indoor-outdoor setup of the adjoining bar and lounge creates an intimate, romantic vibe. It felt like the moment was tailored for these beauties by Hanifa, a Black-owned fashion brand from my hometown of Washington DC. Whether styled with a classic little black dress, a chic suit, or a casual jeans-and-tee combo, these reimagined mules lend a dose of understated glamour.
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A Pair of Stunning Shades
Victoria Beckham V Metal Pilot Sunglasses in Gold-Khaki ($410)
One simply cannot travel to SoCal without a pair of chic sunnies. I made that mistake once and promptly bought the first pair of sunglasses I spotted at the airport gift shop. They were gold-trimmed aviators, not unlike these elegant lenses by Victoria Beckham. Reportedly, they're one of her preferred styles, so if Posh Spice approves, then really, need I say more?
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Mekita Rivas (she/her) is a PS contributor. She covers everything fashion, writing up profiles, industry news, and long-lead stories. In addition to fashion, she frequently covers culture, identity, politics, wellness, travel, and more.