I’ve always been a city girl. I was born in Kuala Lumpur, grew up in Houston, and upon moving to L.A., lived comfortably east of the 405 for years. But a California hazard they don’t warn you about is that you might meet a cute surfer who eventually lures you all the way west. After some cajoling, I gave in to my inner Pisces, packed up my gray Tabby, and moved us across town to the sun-dappled, salty-aired streets of Venice Beach.
It’s been six years since, and while I may not yet be a bona fide beach babe (I still prefer reading on the sand to roaring waves), it’s home. My hair is blonder, my mornings slower, and I love the neighborhood’s walkability and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Every time I catch another glorious pink sunset, it does feel a little like living in a fantasy.
If you’ve ever experienced L.A. traffic, you know how vast and sprawling the city is. Different zip codes mean different dress codes, and the attitude in Venice is very relaxed. Denim and comfy shoes reign supreme, and a knit is a must to combat the almost-always-present marine layer. Most of my bolder pieces have been relegated to the back of my closet, awaiting invites for martinis at Tower Bar, dancing at A Club Called Rhonda, and too much pasta at Little Dom’s. So while my highlights may not be low-maintenance, my approach to daily dressing is.
Keep reading for three of my tried-and-true outfits for your next trip to the beach.
