Spray Hair Gel & Spray

The Question:Dear Belinda,I have lived in North Carolina my entire life - born and raised - but have recently accepted a job offer in Los Angeles, California. I'll be wearing business attire during work hours, however, I'd like to change my everyday dress style to reflect LA fashion. Is there a particular look I should be aiming for and are there any must-have pieces that will ease me into the California fashion scene?Thanks,HilaryNorth CarolinaBelinda Says...Hi Hilary,First of all, let me say congratulations on the new job! And secondly, welcome to Cali! The great thing about fashion in California - especially Los Angeles - is that anything goes! LA is known for a smorgasbord of street style, each subject creating his or her own unique look through what inspires them as individuals. However, being a Cali girl myself, I can tell you that I have a few pieces which I consider to be staples in California style. I have them, my girlfriends have them, and the girls next door have them (even the guys have them!). So if you're looking for something that will help your NC-turned-CA style get on the right track, be sure to make a home for these in your closet:Flip Flops. OK. I'll be the first to admit that these are NOT runway-worthy; in fact, their time as a fashion statement has long since passed (yes, there was a time when cute dresses and plain flip flops were "in"...yikes). However, the weather is warmer and the days are sunnier in Cali, not to mention we like to maintain our reputation of being a laid-back state. So what's a better way to show your Cali pride than with a pair of comfortable flip flops? I love relaxing and enjoying a sunny day out in my most comfortable pair of jeans, a rock band tee and, of course, my Rainbow sandals (the ultimate Cali flip flop).Wayfarer Shades. The wayfarer has made a serious comeback in recent years, not just in Cali, but across the country! These ooze with coolness and when you have these on, there's no way you can't possibly look effortlessly stylish. These are a great alternative to ultra large shades ( ahem - which I hear guys don't like on girls, anyway - ahem!) and are a flattering design on almost any face. They also come in a variety of color combos, so you're sure to find your perfect match. And hey - if they were cool enough for Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and John Lennon, they're cool enough for me!Beach Hair. Ok, this is not something you can keep in your closet, but you'll definitely be wearing it at some point, whether naturally, or styled. Lucky for you, you'll be close to some of the coolest beaches in California; Santa Monica, Venice Beach and, of course, the Orange County beaches. The best way to rock beach hair is by doing it naturally, but you may not always be able to hit the waves. So for the days you're in the city, but still want that quintessential Cali beach hair, let your hair dry naturally and tousle your tresses with your fingertips after applying a wave enhancing spray such as Garnier Fructis Style Wonder Waves Spray. If you have some extra time and want more defined waves, check out Jenna's post on how to create loose, beachy waves.So there you have it, Hilary. Only 3 Cali style must-haves, but definitely ones that will have you relaxing and enjoying the California sun like a true Californian. Don't be afraid to experiment with new styles; be inspired by the street style of others and use their fashion sense as a guide to creating your own unique look. Before you know it, you'll be the next fabulously dressed street style subject that the new girl in town will be learning from. Happy stylin'! ;)All the best,BelindaHave a question for Belinda? Send an email to belinda [at] smarter.com with all of your fashion inquiries. I may not be able to answer everyone’s questions, but I will try to get to as many as possible. Be sure to stay tuned for next week’s Ask Belinda Column, the next one may be yours! ... more