What to Wear in Los Angeles: A Guide to Every Season (From a Local)

Planning a trip and wondering what to wear in Los Angeles? You’re in the right place!

As someone who’s called LA home since 2008, I’ve seen trends come and go and know exactly what staples remain timeless in our beautiful city of angels.

This guide will help you navigate the LA fashion scene for every season—spring, summer, fall, and winter—so you can pack confidently and blend in like a local. I’ve created four outfit ideas for Los Angeles so you can get plenty of inspo.

From the latest trends to enduring staple pieces, let’s make sure you’re stylish and comfortable during your stay!

The LA Fashion Scene

A person with long hair stands on a balcony, arms raised, facing a cityscape under clear skies—perfectly showcasing what to wear in Los Angeles during the day. — *All photos by Justin Edwards*

Los Angeles is the city where laid-back and fashion-forward meet. You’ll see plenty of people rocking effortless looks (like jeans and a white t-shirt) that are still totally Instagram-worthy.

Casual chic: In LA, it’s all about looking like you didn’t try too hard, even if you totally did. Think jeans, a t-shirt, and some cool sneakers or sandals.

Trendy pieces: Stay current by mixing in trendy jewelry or wearing the on-trend color of the season. LA is really all about balancing what’s hot with your own personal style.

A collection of women's fashion items perfect for what to wear in Los Angeles, including a beige tank top, black T-shirt, cream jacket, lace bodysuit, red sweater, blue jeans, black heeled sandals, black boots, black backpack, and gold watch. — *What’s Trending in Los Angeles for Fall 2024*

Occasionally dress up: If you want to go all out, there are certain occasions where you can really glam it up. For example, brunch in Beverly Hills, dinner at Soho House in WeHo, or a night at the Magic Castle totally call for a dress and heels.

Denim: Baggy jeans are all the rage right now in LA. We’ve seen a big shift away from skinny jeans to flares, boot cut, oversized or wide-leg jeans.

What to Wear in LA by Season

Spring

Spring in LA is pretty mild but often temperamental. It can vary between unseasonably hot or cold and throw in the occasional surprise rain shower. We often get a very short spring – it can jump from winter to summer real fast.

If you’re deciding what to wear in LA in the spring, here are my outfit ideas for you:

A woman in a black top and floral skirt stands on a staircase outdoors, smiling, with a cityscape and the "Angels Flight" structure in the background—perfect inspiration for what to wear in Los Angeles.

Top | Skirt | Shoes

A person with long brown hair, wearing a light green shirt and beige cardigan, smiles while standing outdoors with palm trees in the background, showcasing a perfect example of what to wear in Los Angeles.

T-Shirt | Cardigan

Tops: Light sweaters and long-sleeve tees will keep you comfortable. You might not need layers all day, but it’s good to have them for cooler mornings and evenings.
Bottoms: Skirts are great for spring in LA because you can dress them up or down. I love wearing a skirt with an elastic waistband because they’re so versatile and comfortable.
Outerwear: A cute denim jacket or lightweight trench is all you’ll need to stay warm and dry if it rains.
Footwear: Ankle boots or sneakers are your best bet for handling LA’s mix of city streets and outdoor activities. Keep it practical, but cute!

Summer

Summer is one of the best times to visit LA because we have hot days and pretty warm nights. However, be mindful that sometimes it can get TOO hot in the summer. Temps can reach the 90s and even the 100s (Fahrenheit).

Here are my ideas on what to pack for summer in LA:

A woman in a green one-shoulder dress leans against a yellow column in a hallway with arched ceilings and wooden doors, showcasing the perfect inspiration for what to wear in Los Angeles.

Dress | Sandals

A woman in a purple dress sits on a picnic blanket in a park, looking at a vintage camera in her hands. A glass of wine and picnic items are beside her. Trees are visible in the background, showcasing an ideal choice for what to wear in Los Angeles during a relaxed afternoon outing.

Dress | Necklace | Wristwatch

Swimsuit: Whether you’re hitting Malibu or lounging by the hotel pool, you’ll want to have at least two swimsuit options!

Tops: Tank tops and breezy blouses are your go-tos for staying cool in the heat. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are lifesavers.

Bottoms: Jean shorts or linen shorts will keep you comfy and stylish while you’re sightseeing or hitting the beach.

Dresses: I’m all about soft girl summer dresses in LA. Easy to throw on and perfect for staying cool.

Hat: A baseball cap is a classic LA look that’ll also protect you from that intense California sun.

Footwear: Sandals and open-toe shoes are a must—light, airy, and great for showing off a pedicure!

Fall

Fall in LA doesn’t really kick off until mid-October, and even then, you’ll still get plenty of sunny, warm days with cooler evenings.

A few ideas for what to wear in LA in the fall:

A woman with long brown hair, dressed in a maroon sweater and blue jeans—perfect examples of what to wear in Los Angeles—stands outdoors, lightly holding her hair with one hand and smiling slightly. She's in front of a modern building with plants nearby.

Sweater | Jeans

A woman wearing a white beanie, gray tank top, and black pants stands outside on a sidewalk in Los Angeles, smiling. Trees and parked cars are in the background, providing a snapshot of what to wear in Los Angeles for a casual day out.

Top | Pants | Beanie

A person stands on a graffiti-covered street, demonstrating what to wear in Los Angeles with a gray sweater, blue jeans, and white sneakers, smiling with one hand in their pocket.

Top | Jeans | Shoes

Crop tops: I love sweater crop tops for the day or cardigans for when the sun goes down. It’s all about layering. Nineties fashion is really back full force in LA, so you can really run wild with it here.

Long-Sleeve Cashmere Sweaters: Burgundy is trending color this season, so I’m obsessed with wearing this sweater this fall! The Mongolian cashmere is super soft and comfy. I went with a size L because I like a looser fit.

Outerwear: A jack et or knit cardigan will keep you warm enough for those crisp evenings without being too bulky.

Footwear: Sneakers or boots are perfect for strolling around during the day and still look stylish for a dinner out at Bestia in the Arts District or Donna’s in Echo Park.

Wondering what to wear in fall in Los Angeles 2024? Burgundy is a hot trend this year, so mix in a sweater or jacket in this chic, seasonal color!

Winter

LA winters are definitely sweater weather. They’re cool, cozy, and sometimes rainy, but don’t expect snow – unless you are going to take a weekend trip to Big Bear, Joshua Tree, or Lake Arrowhead.

Just be ready for those chilly nights and occasional downpours in LA!

A few ideas on what to pack for LA in the winter:

Dress | Bag

Dress | Bracelet | Necklace | Sunglasses

A Sweater Dress: This one from Quince is perfect for winter because it easily transitions from day to night and keeps you warm in cooler temperatures. Pair it with sheer black tights, which are one of my favorite essentials for in winter in Los Angeles.

You can also go elegant/glam with your dress (a perfect “mob wife” aesthetic for strolling down Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills). Just be sure to pack a jacket!

Bottoms: Jeans or wide-leg pants will keep you comfortable when the temps drop.

Outerwear: A leather jacket adds a stylish touch, while a puffer coat (like a Patagonia) or a raincoat is smart for rainy days.

Must-Have Items to Pack for a Trip to LA

A collection of items perfect for what to wear in Los Angeles, including black sunglasses, white sneakers, sunscreen, a black backpack, a beige beanie, a pink baseball cap, and colorful mittens.

There are a few essentials you’ll need no matter what time of year you visit LA. These are items I use all the time, in every season, while living in Los Angeles.

Sunglasses: A year-round must. The sun doesn’t take days off here!

Hats: Go for beanies in the winter and baseball hats in the summer. Practical, packable, and stylish!

Sunscreen: LA sun is no joke—protect your skin, even if it’s cloudy.

Bags: A crossbody bag is perfect for walking around, while a packable reusable tote bag is great for shopping trips or beach days. A stylish backpack works well for all-day excursions.

White sneakers: I’ve mentioned them so many times already—they’re a staple in LA fashion. Comfortable, classic, and they go with everything!

Understanding Weather in Los Angeles

A person in a black dress and knee-high boots demonstrates what to wear in Los Angeles as they pose on a rooftop with a city skyline in the background at dusk. — Another great outfit for winter in Los Angeles. **Boots**

Before you start packing, it’s really important to know what the weather is going to be like in Los Angeles. You might be surprised to find out that it’s actually more unpredictable than most people say.

LA enjoys a Mediterranean climate, but there are some things you will want to watch out for so you don’t get thrown off guard.

Here’s what you need to know:

Mild Winters

Winters in Los Angeles are generally cool and rainy, especially in recent years – we’ve had so much rain in January and February for multiple years in a row now.

While temperatures rarely dip below freezing and snow is virtually nonexistent, you’ll still want to pack a coat.

Evening temperatures can drop a lot, so a jacket or sweater is essential for staying comfortable when you’re going out at night.

Hot Summers

Summers are hot and dry—even through the end of September. Parts of LA that are further away from the coast (on the east side) usually see hotter temperatures than the coast.

If you’re planning to head out to neighborhoods like Downtown, Koreatown, or the Arts District, be prepared for the heat!

Microclimates

Coastal areas like Santa Monica can be way cooler than, say, downtown or further east.

So, be sure to bring layers!

FAQs about What to Pack for Los Angeles

How to dress like you’re from LA?

To dress like you’re from LA, keep it casual and effortless. Think basic pieces like jeans, a plain tee, and sneakers. On cooler days, layer with a light jacket, cardigan, or a blazer for a chic professional look. The key is looking polished without trying too hard!

What to people wear to bars in LA?

For women in LA, bar outfits vary depending on where you’re going. At upscale spots, opt for a chic blouse or dress paired with heels or stylish boots. For more casual bars, jeans with a cute top and trendy sneakers or flats work well. The key is to balance comfort with style to match the setting.

Do you ever need a jacket in Los Angeles?

Yes, you’ll definitely want a jacket in Los Angeles, especially for cooler evenings and early mornings. While it’s hot during the day, temperatures can drop by 10 to 20 degrees at night. A light jacket, like a denim or bomber jacket, is great for staying comfortable from day to night.

Final Thoughts About Outfit Ideas for Los Angeles

A person in a gray sweater and blue jeans, a perfect casual choice for what to wear in Los Angeles, poses with one leg up on a step in front of a colorful graffiti wall.

Now that you know what to wear in Los Angeles, you’re ready to pack like a pro! LA’s fashion scene may be laid-back, but packing smart will help you blend in with the locals and stay comfortable for whatever the city throws your way.

Whether you’re visiting in spring, summer, fall, or winter, I hope these tips have helped you feel fully prepared for your trip to LA.

If Palm Springs is also on your travel list, be sure to check out my Palm Springs Packing Guide.

If you’re in Los Angeles and looking to do some shopping, don’t miss the Melrose Trading Post and the Rose Bowl Flea Market.

Or if you’re still trying to figure out where to stay in LA, I’ve got you covered with the best boutique hotels in Los Angeles.