When it comes to California style, the aesthetic varies by region. You have the breezy San Diego surfer vibe, bold Los Angeles street fashion, eclectic San Francisco wardrobes that can adjust to the weather, and even an inland rancher look, complete with cowboy hat. Still, clothing design in California has a few things in common: It’s always unique, intentional, and entirely unfussy. Consider these wearable gifts for the stylish friends and family members, all designed in the Golden State.
Dandy Del Mar The Castello Cardigan, $169
Built for layering, this evergreen-colored cardigan with a subtle floral print will carry him through the holidays, straight into springtime and beyond. The San Clemente brand describes its aesthetic as “a vintage daydream for worldly bon vivants.” Feel good about the fact that five percent of all proceeds go to Oceana, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting our waters.
BigTruck Original Goggle Ski Lift Hat, $40
Let your favorite ski bum make their status known even when they’re off the slopes. This Truckee brand makes knock-around hats, created with mountain sports in mind. The high-density foam creates a sturdy shield from beating sun, while the plush headband keeps sweat from running down their face. Plus, it just looks cool.
Ozma Sloan Duster, $458
Can’t decide between a robe and a sweater? Get a luxury piece that functions as both. This cozy duster features a shawl collar and bell sleeves for a comfortable, structured fit. Perfect for layering or snuggling at home, this knit was created by Los Angeles designer Heidi Baker.
Sierra Moon Star Disc Necklace, $45
What could be more appropriate than gold jewelry created in a town where prospectors once hit it rich? Family-owned out of Auburn, Sierra Moon creates chic designs out of precious metals. This sweet 18-karat, gold-filled necklace sparkles with a star-studded nighttime sky.
Loyd/Ford Double Layer Chiffon Skirt, $360
Lauded German-born designers Stefan Loyd and Franck Ford have been living and creating in Palm Springs for more than a decade. In that time, they’ve grown a serious following, including big names like Meghan Markle. The duo gains inspiration from the desert landscape and San Juanito Mountains light. This flowy forever-piece works for every season.
Sunski Dipsea Sunglasses, $58
Give them the gift of future compliments with these face-flattering sunglasses from San Francisco-based Sunski. Named after the famous Marin County trail that takes hikers from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach, the Dipsea frames are great for both city living and big backcountry efforts. Frames are crafted from recycled plastic resin, while lenses are fully polarized.
Nixon Time Teller, $125
Hefty without feeling heavy; classic but not boring; sophisticated and fully waterproof—the Nixon Time Teller is a Goldilocks watch that wears more expensive than its reasonable price. The San Diego brand imbues their timepieces with a slight surfer style to look as good on the board as they do in the boardroom.
Pennyroyal Siri Bag, $815
Pennyroyal calls the Siri, the “most beautiful bag we’ve ever made”—and coming from the Petaluma-based brand that is saying something. Pennyroyal is focused on timeless silhouettes. Their bags are made from leather tanned naturally from wood, bark, leaves, and roots. The result is a classic piece that grows with you, transforming in texture and patina over time.
Boot Barn El Dorado Men’s Bay Western Boot, $400
“Love is a warm cowboy,” once crooned Buck Owens, the Central Valley–based musician and father of the Bakersfield sound. Put Owens’ words to the test with a pair of kicks from the Boot Barn, a country-style retailer with headquarters in Irvine and a major outpost in Bakersfield.
Darner Caramel Tulips Floral Mesh Socks, $44
Rather than cozy socks for the home, Darner crafts ethereal-feeling footwear better suited for cocktail parties and art galleries. Inspired by 19th-century hosiery, the cut-and-sew design (handcrafted in Los Angeles) features seams that lend an elegant elongation to the foot and leg.