As a fashion editor and mom of two who lives in L.A., I'm always curiously eyeing the outfits chic moms are wearing around the city—whether it's at school drop-off, the aisles of Erewhon, the office, or an early-morning Pilates class. What I've observed is that stylish L.A. moms possess a laid-back, practical yet put-together effortlessness that comes from navigating the demanding lifestyle of motherhood in a city with warm year-round temps. L.A. moms gravitate toward designer and affordable styles and trends that fit into the laid-back L.A. lifestyle—from fashion-forward (and always practical) retro sneakers to effortless blouses that can take them from drop-off to meetings in one fell swoop.
Below, I'm sharing the standout styles I've been spotting on moms around L.A. now that school is back in session! Get inspired.
Striped Tops
(Image credit: @aimeesong)From tees to polos and everything in between, relaxed striped tops have become a staple for chic moms in L.A., which they pair with everything from track shorts to relaxed jeans.
LIONESS Bloom Top Reformation Rowan Crew Tee ZARA Short Sleeve Striped Knit Polo Quince Cotton Cashmere Rugby Polo SweaterWhite Long-Sleeve Tops
(Image credit: @hoskelsa)A must-have of the season, white long-sleeve tees are a go-to for chic L.A. moms right now. They're an easy, effortless, trend-forward option when there's no time to think.
Reformation Asher Oversized Long Sleeve Tee DISSH Sloane White Long Sleeve Crew Knit Top J.Crew Boyfriend Jersey Relaxed Long-Sleeve T-ShirtUtility Pants
(Image credit: @alyssawako)I've been spotting utility and cargo pants crop up more and more this season, with a whole host of brands and retailers releasing their iterations on the trend. Expect to see them in the school pick-up line styled with button-downs and long-sleeve tees as temps slowly start to drop and we head into fall.
Pistola Sabrina Curved Utility Pants ZARA Fluid Oversized Cargo Pants in Light Khaki Citizens of Humanity Thassos Cropped Cotton Twill Cargo Pants in Green DONNI The Silk Taffeta Cargo PantBreezy Blouses
(Image credit: @joiedejude)Casual yet put-together, breezy blouses are the perfect option for a whole host of occasions for L.A.'s pleasant year-round weather—coffee dates, work meetings, back-to-school events… You name it. Dôen is a go-to brand for L.A. moms seeking these breezy silhouettes, but there are plenty of other retailers offering a similar vibe.
DÔEN Henri Top gap Elbow-Sleeve Crop Pintuck Top Helsa Voile Peasant Blouse Rumored Willow TopBaseball Caps
(Image credit: @piabaroncini)Moms in L.A. know the power of a cool baseball hat to add a sporty and effortless touch to their outfits. Not to mention, it's the perfect accessory on those busy mornings when you haven't had time to wash your hair.
Polo Ralph Lauren Chino Cap Favorite Daughter Mom of the Year Baseball Hat Club Favorite Sunset Tower Hotel Hat Los Sundays The Tequila & Tennis Country Club Dad CapLong Necklaces
(Image credit: @jenwonders)Whether styled over a tank, T-shirt, or sweater, a long pendant necklace is the ideal piece that L.A. moms throw on to give their outfits a fashion-forward touch.
Reformation Estelle Necklace J.Crew Lipstick Case Pendant Necklace CHAN LUU Beaded Fish Pendant NecklaceBallet Flats
(Image credit: @hoskelsa)Classic and timeless dressers I know are styling ballet flats with everything from track shorts to slip skirts and relaxed jeans—adding a sophisticated touch to their outfits. I'm seeing them in all styles and colors this season.
aeyde Tibby Ballet Flats Reformation Blaine Ballet Flat ZARA Leather Ballet Flats COS Leather Ballet FlatsLong Shorts & Relaxed Capris
(Image credit: @shhtephs)Fall weather in L.A. doesn't arrive until late October/early November, and we're lucky enough to wear much lighter styles and fabrics until then. One item I keep spotting everywhere? Long shorts and relaxed capri-style lengths, styled with everything from thong sandals to flat mules.
Reformation Arlette Pant ZARA Long Pleated Bermuda Shorts in Black Reformation Sandy Satin Short We the Free Montana Shorts