Pictured: Sunglasses: Chanel /  Earrings: Kendra Scott / Lipstick: c/o Dolce & Gabbana Dolce Rosa / Top: Gibson / Necklace: Kendra Scott / Handbag: Givenchy / Nail Polish: Chanel Emeraude / Bracelet: Kendra Scott (on sale!) / Skirt: H & M / Shoes: Saint Laurent

Have you ever heard the term “California Casual” and wondered what it meant? California Casual is in reference to a style of dressing seen on the streets of California. While east coasters adhere to a strict dress code for specific activities, us Californians prefer a laid-back, anything goes mantra when it comes to personal style; and dressing for activities.

Here in California, we can walk into a five star restaurant wearing shorts, or a denim skirt. This would not fly in the south or the east! Those regions have specific dress codes for specific locations, activities, and events.

Don’t get me wrong, just because we all live by the California Casual dress code, or should I say anti-dress code, this does not mean we can wear anything we want, all the time! When it comes to certain locations and events, we do adhere to certain codes of dress; and appropriateness.

For example, we always wear dressy, black outfits for funerals. We would never show up to pay our respects in torn denim or the like. When we attend weddings, men wear a suit and tie, and women wear skirts or dresses-no white for guests. Of course some people push the envelope and show up inappropriately dressed; but I believe that happens throughout the country. For the office, we dress according to the company’s dress code. Some industries such as law, still require a suit and tie. Other industries such as high tech, allow employees to show up in torn jeans and an old tee. There is a wide spectrum of what is considered appropriate when it comes to the office.

California Casual to me, means I have the freedom to dress according to how I feel; as long as I don’t wear white to a wedding, or red to a funeral 😉

This summer, the heat has been bothering me. I am not sure if it is because I am getting older, or because winter was so cold and my body just has not adjusted to the ninety degree heat. Whatever the reason, California Casual style has been my summer lifesaver! I love wearing espadrilles in the heat; and having the option of wearing them for dressy occasions. They pair well with skirts, and dresses. Espadrilles are not just for the beach, they are perfect for everyday life! Plus, they are so comfortable to walk in, and they keep feet cool. Love that!

I wore this outfit last weekend to Santana Row. I met my friend Laura from Have-Need-Want for brunch, and then shopped around, and visited the new Kendra Scott store opening. If you are local, definitely check out the new shop! They have so many fabulous jewelry items in stock, it is like a dream!

The temperature was high, and this California Casual summer outfit was perfect. The skirt is drawstring, the blouse is loose and flowing (natural air conditioning!), and the shoes were like slippers; only they were wedges! I am looking forward to wearing this ensemble for future shopping excursions, brunch, warm dinners, and perhaps church!

Do you consider yourself a California Casual girl? What does the term mean to you?

Thank you for stopping by!

XOXO

Cathy

Photo Credit: Laura Adney/Have-Need-Want