Like a Local is a series exploring what our favorite editors, staffers, and influencers do and wear while out and about in their neighborhoods. We’ll let you in on all the chic outfits and local-vetted spots in some of the coolest places across the country.
Don’t tell any of my fellow New Yorkers, but a short trip to the West Coast always leaves me wondering what my life might be like if I lived on the other side of the country. While my heart is in the Big Apple, can you blame me for falling for the ocean views, warmer weather, and luxurious parties in the Hollywood Hills? And don’t even get me started on California style, which is severely underrated if you ask me. I don’t have a one-way ticket booked, so I’m living vicariously through senior market editor and Santa Monica resident Judith Jones, who’s been styling some effortlessly chic looks from AG while going about her days in sunny L.A.
Judith’s wardrobe is proof that AG has a piece for every L.A. adventure. “You can be hiking in Griffith Park one moment and shopping and brunching on Melrose Place or enjoying a day at the beach the next,” she says. AG’s pieces are incredibly versatile—ideal for L.A.’s quintessential relaxed yet polished style—and speak to Judith’s “classic yet fashion-forward aesthetic.” Below, she gives us a peek at her life in West L.A. and all the local-coded looks she’s been sporting.
The destination:
“When I’m not at the office in West Hollywood, I try to take my meetings close to where I live in Santa Monica. My favorite spot for coffee and meetings is the Palma Lounge at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel. The décor is gorgeous, and the space is light, airy, quiet, and comfortable (and great for spotting a celeb or two).” — Judith Jones, Senior Market Editor
The outfit breakdown:
“For meetings, I like a casual-chic vibe. This tailored set is my new go-to. It’s casual yet sophisticated—oozing a relaxed elegance that’s perfect for West Side meetings with PR, brands, and fashion people. I love an all-white look, especially in lightweight, effortless fabrics. AG’s high-waisted pleated shorts exude a vintage ’90s vibe that I love. I chose to pair them with a classic white tee. If you haven’t tried AG’s T-shirts before, you’re in for a real treat. The quality is amazing, and the comfort level is off the charts. I finished the look with a relaxed tailored blazer—one of my favorite pieces to wear in L.A.—that makes me look instantly polished. This one doesn’t feel too uptight or stiff. The best part? It’s an outfit that can easily transition to the evening.” — Jones
The styling tips:
“I styled this look with contrasting black accessories—always a great idea when you want to break up an all-white outfit. A classic black belt smartens the shorts, and minimalist black kitten heels give the shorts a more dressed-up and elevated touch. I’d also wear this with black ballet flats for a more casual look. When I’m taking meetings, I’ll always wear a chic black tote so I can carry my computer and essentials. And of course, no L.A. outfit is complete without a sleek pair of sunglasses.” — Jones
The destination:
“For a little retail therapy and brunch on the weekend, I head to Venice, which has plenty of cool foodie spots, unique boutiques, and stores. I particularly love Gjusta Bakery, a cool deli, bakery, and café located in an artsy area of Venice. The bread is insane! Everything they serve is fresh, seasonal, and delicious. I usually get coffee and brunch on the casual outdoor patio and people-watch! Afterward, I’ll head next door to Gjusta Goods and swoon over all the gorgeous linens, homeware, and tasty jams.” — Jones
The outfit breakdown:
“When I’m here, I’m usually wearing some variation of jeans and a tee. I’m all about comfort and a relaxed, cool vibe on the weekends, and these easy wide-leg jeans and this casual scoop-neck top fit the bill. The jeans are insanely soft, comfortable, and easy to move in, and the wide-leg silhouette is very of the moment. The black T-shirt is versatile, and I like that it’s relaxed throughout the body.” — Jones
The styling tips:
“I styled this look with minimalist black accessories to keep the look clean. I’m wearing the jeans with cool, black flatform sandals (they also look great with retro sneakers), a black belt to enhance the waist, and a black leather crossbody bag for an easy weekend look. Of course, I wore black shades to finish the outfit!” — Jones
The destination:
“On the weekend, one of my favorite activities is to go to the beach with my husband and two kids. I’m lucky enough to live in Santa Monica just 10 blocks from the beach, so I take advantage of it! Walking along the beach calms my mind and fills my soul—seriously, an afternoon of sun, sand, and the sound of the ocean is the best medicine! Afterward, we usually head to my favorite beach hotel, Casa del Mar, for a drink and bites and to watch the sunset. It has the best view.” — Jones
The outfit breakdown:
“For a spring beach day, a striped tee is always fitting. I love the elegance of AG’s Lyra crewneck shirt. I’m big on stripes (one look at my closet will reveal a host of striped tees, sweaters, and cardigans), so this relaxed T-shirt was a no-brainer. It oozes French-girl vibes and can easily be styled with shorts, jeans, or tailored trousers. The quality is incredible—it’s not your average flimsy T-shirt. I paired it with AG’s Rian high-rise straight jeans, which have a vintage-inspired fit and a sun-bleached look. These are great to run around in because they have a subtle stretch and are insanely comfortable.” — Jones
The styling tips:
“I styled this look with simple white Birkenstocks, a basket bag, and sunglasses, which are easy and ideal for a beach day. I would throw on AG’s white blazer when I’m headed for drinks afterward.” — Jones
