The California Girl isnât just a fashion aesthetic but a lifestyle. Organic fabrics, flowy silhouettes, classic designs, and a relaxed attitude define this quintessential look. Itâs all about effortless elegance and seamless transition between seasons and occasions. If youâve been wondering what kind of outfits for the California style you should have in your wardrobe, youâve come right to the experts!
At Cali1850, weâre all about that laid-back California fashion that prioritizes comfort and versatility. Our clothes are an honest reflection of the free-spirited vibe of Californians. In this guide, weâre sharing some of our best tips for Southern California-style clothing that you can follow to dress like a Cali girl, whether youâre from the Golden State or not. Letâs dive in!
Stick to Comfortable Casuals

Comfort is key when dressing like California girls. We love investing in elevated basics that are chic but also easy to wear. This means choosing casual wear with relaxed fits, soft fabrics, and elasticated waistbands to really amp up the comfort level. For California fashion, we also pay close attention to durability. Wardrobe staples are an investment for us, so we stay away from poorly-made clothes that will fall apart after a few wears.
Choose Natural Fabrics

Breathability is an essential factor for ensuring the comfort of your California outfits. Natural materials, such as cotton and linen, are staples in every Cali girlâs wardrobe, not only because theyâre sustainable but also because of their breeziness and comfort. Theyâre super lightweight and breathable, which is ideal for the West Coast lifestyle. Check out our Linen Collection for airy, high-quality linen clothes.
Embrace Classic Styles

In California, we donât swap out our existing clothes for the latest styles after every season. Why? Because we invest in timeless clothing that wonât lose its appeal over time. Think classic clothes like womenâs linen button-down shirts, tiered linen maxi skirts, casual beach dresses, boyfriend sweatshirts, and cozy hoodies. All you need is a few of these Southern California-style clothing to unlock numerous outfit combinations!
Master the Art of Layering

Californiaâs diverse landscape has taught us how to adapt to the fluctuating temperatures and thatâs by layering. Throwing on a lightweight jacket or shirt over a basic tee is all we need to stay comfortable and stylish when the morning chill settles into the afternoon warmth. If you want to embrace California fashion, you simply have to master layering. Itâs one of the easiest ways to add versatility to your outfits for the California Girl style.
Rock the Denim

While linen is a common sight on the beaches of Cali, our city streets are packed with Californians rocking their denim ensembles, whether it be a classic pair of womenâs jeans, denim shorts, a chic denim jacket, or a head-to-toe denim look. After all, these are comfortable, durable, and versatile pieces that are easy to dress up or down. Just ensure you select the right jeans for your body type!
Keep It Carefree and Boho-Chic

California fashion is heavily influenced by the boho style, especially in the coastal regions. It perfectly encapsulates the laidback charm that permeates the West Coast. We Cali girls own at least one flowy maxi dress and maxi skirt in our wardrobes. Theyâre easy to style with ankle-length boots for the city and with sandals for a beach outing. When it comes to accessories, you simply canât do without a few pieces of boho-chic jewelry, featuring beads and tassels.
Wear With Confidence

While what you wear is an important part of California fashion, itâs also how you wear it that truly defines the outfits for the California Girl style. Whether youâre wearing your favorite fleece sweatshirt and cozy sweatpants or a smart shirt with work pants, having a confident attitude is key to pulling off the look with perfection. So, stand tall and wear your Southern California-style clothing with pride!
Ready to embrace the effortless charm of California fashion in your wardrobe? Check out our womenâs clothing for quality, Cali-inspired pieces, and shop today for free same-day US shipping!