From Erewhon Runs to Malibu Hikes—All the Essentials I Packed for a Week in L.A.

From Erewhon Runs to Malibu Hikes—All the Essentials I Packed for a Week in L.A.

      Packing for L.A. has always felt like a test of personality that I’m uncertain I can pass. Departing New York in the spring requires layering up and preparing for unexpected gusts of wind and the occasional dreary morning, but arriving in Los Angeles changes everything. It’s suddenly sunny and laid-back, demanding outfits that are as effortless as they are intentional. For a long time, I tried to find a middle ground, packing "just in case" items that never seemed to fit either vibe. However, during my recent trip, I chose to fully embrace a West Coast style approach. My suitcase shifted from practicality to embodying a distinctively L.A. style—light, casual, and a bit luxurious. I reached for airy white poplin dresses ideal for morning smoothie runs with the Who What Wear team (I couldn’t resist the Hailey Bieber strawberry dress) and included pieces that could transition from a Malibu hike in my favorite inclusive activewear to sipping a matcha einspänner latte in an outfit that felt oh-so chic. It was all about creating a vibe, rather than overthinking.

      Below are the items I packed for my week in L.A.

      **My Travel Outfit**

      Finding a comfortable travel outfit that doesn’t make you look as if you just spent ten hours cramming for a biochemistry exam is a delicate balance. Over the years, especially for long-haul flights, I’ve relied on a comfy tank top, leggings, and a cozy hoodie. The accessories may vary (baseball cap or beanie, or furry slides versus lifestyle sneakers), but the core remains unchanged.

      **Anine Bing**

      *Sport Harvey Sweatshirt*

      This is my preferred hoodie when I want to feel cozy while still looking like I considered my outfit for more than a moment.

      **Lululemon**

      *Align High-Rise Pant*

      My Align leggings are reserved for travel rather than yoga studios; they’re simply too soft and comfortable.

      **Tna**

      *Best-Ever Ankle Sock 5-Pack*

      These Aritzia socks are a staple in my apartment dresser and my carry-on.

      **Polo Ralph Lauren**

      *Chino Cap*

      I recently bought these in black and silver and love styling them.

      **Rimowa**

      *Essential Cabin Luggage*

      I believe in investing in carry-on luggage. I’ve tested countless brands over the years and have given most away to friends, but I keep my favorite colorful Rimowa cabin-sized carry-on with me always. My color is a limited-edition baby pink, but I am tempted to switch to the new spring 2026 magenta that the brand just released.

      **My L.A. Outfits**

      My goal is always to pack pieces that are easy to wear, reworkable, and chic. I focus on linen, leather, and lightweight cotton, especially when heading to a warmer climate. The contrast between L.A. and New York styles fascinates me, especially since I seldom visit the West Coast. For this trip, I opted to fully immerse myself by including simple sundresses, activewear, and plain T-shirts and jeans in my rotation. The best part is that all these items fit in a carry-on, eliminating checked luggage fees, and they can be reused in various outfit combinations.

      **Wilfred**

      *Technique Poplin Dress*

      After trying on this Aritzia dress right before my trip, I knew I had to take it. Its lightweight fabric was perfect for walking along Melrose Avenue.

      I paired the Aritzia white dress with my favorite Margaux woven sandals released for spring 2026. The best part is that the soft leather molded to my feet, allowing me to wear them for eight hours without discomfort, even during a trip to Santa Monica beach.

      **Steph Mazuera**

      *Celeste 4 Prong Diamond Studs*

      I never leave home without my classic diamond earrings. Pro tip: If you're nervous about traveling with diamond studs, choose screw-back versions for security when you're active.

      **4SI3NNA**

      *Sleeveless Fringe Top*

      This was definitely my most complimented piece. It makes such a statement that I aimed to create several outfits with it, pairing it with black satin pants (a spring favorite in L.A.) and simple straight-leg jeans for versatility.

      **Reformation**

      *Gale High Waist Satin Pants*

      These little black satin pants are my go-to, traveling with me everywhere.

      **Margaux**

      *The Pascale in Espresso Suede*

      I adore these Margaux flats. They seamlessly transition from day to night, which I did several times throughout my trip.

      **Dragon Diffusion**

      *Nantucket Large Woven Leather Tote*

      This is my preferred bag for work trips, as it’s stylish enough for a chic outfit without feeling like I'm hauling around a laptop bag.

      Women in L.A.

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From Erewhon Runs to Malibu Hikes—All the Essentials I Packed for a Week in L.A.

I'm an editor based in New York. I traveled to the West Coast for a week and immersed myself in L.A. culture—enjoying matcha and more. Check out my carry-on from my recent trip.