California Cool Kicks

Visit any southern California beach city and you're sure to notice the local style. The laid back vibe and dressed down chic make for a carefree attitude that's more reminiscent of weekend get-a-ways than buttoned up business. From "Surf City USA" (aka Huntington Beach) to the Santa Barbara coast, it's all about comfort from head to toe.

Sure, you might be used to seeing skate shoes on your teenage kid, but look no farther than So. Cal, and you'll see them on guys of all ages too. In fact, the middle aged guy driving his convertible down Pacific Coast Highway may very well be rocking a pair of skate shoes. Whether paired with hoodies and distressed jeans or shorts and t-shirts, skate shoes promote an attitude that says you care about being comfortable. Brands such as DC Shoe Co. have seen continuous growth as the once regional California cool style is emulated across the nation. Sold mainly in local skate stores, brands like DC Shoe Company have expanded their product offerings to include more styles, designs and colors than ever before.

Interestingly, many girls have adopted skate shoes into their wardrobes, as the lines between fashion grow more ambiguous. However, you are probably more likely to see Rocket Dog Shoes adorning the feet of California surfer girls wanting to show off their pedicures. Flip flops are a staple of west coast style and the current trending is toward embellished designs that sport studs or rhinestones. Platform flip flops can be seen throughout the summer days, worn with cut-off shorts and maxi dresses, but come fall, don't be surprised if you see them worn with jeans as well. After all, California weather really never gets that brutal, so why not take the opportunity to be comfortable and wear what makes you happy?

When you first think of California, things like palm trees and glittery movie star glam likely come to mind, but that's not all the sunshine state has to offer. In fact, the people and the beach culture really have had a lot of influence on shaping style and cool classics that have carved out their own niche in the fashion world. Cali's street chic sensibility shows that by combining functional pieces like skate shoes or flip flops with lightweight layers and fabrics, you can not only achieve a livable day to day style, but that you can look great doing it.