I Took Mental Notes in L.A.—Now I'm Shopping Nordstrom's Sale Accordingly

I’m a firm believer that everyone has a “soulmate city,” a place that evokes a strong sense of belonging and alignment. Mine is Los Angeles. Aside from hiking the rocky cliffs of Point Dume and window shopping along Melrose Avenue, I spend most of my time in L.A. scouring the streets for coveted fashion trends. On my latest trip, I stumbled upon several late-summer styles that I can’t wait to incorporate into my own closet. And lucky for me, I know exactly where to find them.

Nordstrom has everything that I could possibly need to channel my inner West Coast cool girl—and it’s all marked down thanks to the retailer’s annual Anniversary Sale. While scrolling through their site, I spotted a variety of pieces that L.A.’s most well-dressed women are wearing right now, from capri pants to Y2K-inspired halter tops. I even found a selection of knee-high boots—yes, the L.A. fashion crowd is wearing boots with dresses this season. It’s a polarizing combination that’s slowly growing on me.

Scroll on for all the trends I discovered in Los Angeles, and shop each look at Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale. If something catches your eye, act quickly. The retailer's major discount event ends on Sunday, August 9.

Dresses & Knee-High Boots

This fashion mash-up feels so wrong it’s right. While boots don’t usually make sense for summer, somehow L.A. girls are making it work. The key is to coordinate a pair of knee-high stompers with a dress that embodies a summery appeal—think lightweight fabrics, frilly lace trims, and billowing sleeves.

Knee-Length Skirts

Move over maxi skirts, knee-length hemlines are taking over. I spotted this style everywhere from Santa Monica to Beverly Hills. Consider the look for yourself with the options below. Try neutral shades if you prefer minimalism, or polka dots and trending colors if you’re not afraid to make a statement.

Halter Tops

Early-aughts fashion is so back, and the L.A. street style set is leading the charge with halter tops. Make this nostalgic silhouette feel even more Y2K centric by pairing it with Bermuda shorts and platform flip-flops.

Capri Pants & Culottes

Some might say that cropped bottoms are controversial, but I disagree! I hopped on the capri-and-culotte-pants bandwagon a while ago, and I’m so glad to see that the trend has made its way to the West Coast. For casual moments, I’ll style the look with a tee, and for more upscale occasions, I’ll opt for a button-down.

Kitten Heels

L.A. girls are ditching their sky-high stilettos for prim-and-proper kitten heels. Defined by a dainty heel height, this design feels super polished. Plus, it’s much more practical for walking in comparison to lofty platforms.

Wide-Leg Jeans

You simply can’t discuss L.A. fashion without mentioning roomy denim bottoms. Honestly, out West, baggy jeans have become more of a staple than a trend. While it might be too hot to wear them now, you can snag them on sale and prepare for the upcoming transition to fall.