The TikTok-Viral Hair Spray I Always Pack for Trips to Los Angeles

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.