I am relocating this month to San Francisco from Washington, DC. Can you suggest what a young, mid-20-something girl needs to survive in the Bay Area for the upcoming climate change. I'm at a loss! —Hal
In San Francisco, as in any large city, you'll need comfortable walking shoes especially with all the steep hills. They are no joke! I'd recommend a comfortable cross-body bag or messenger bag for this reason, too. Say bye-bye to the heat and humidity of D.C. (something I got experience during a summer-long internship). I've never lived in San Francisco but I remember the weather was beautiful in the summertime, albeit a tad unpredictable and much cooler than I had expected. Layering is essential, so always carry a cardigan, jean jacket, or blazer, especially in the evenings.
The whole San Francisco vibe is more conservative than say, L.A., but equally stylish in its own way. Lots of earth tones and comfortable urban trekkers who look smart and chic because they match their environment, so to speak. In a sense, this is good because you're moving from D.C. so with a few tweaks, you'll be blending-in in no time.
Below are 3 affordable outfit ideas to inspire you. Now I'll turn it over to my savvy readers: What will Hal need in her wardrobe for her move to San Francisco? If you live in SF, we'd love to hear your input.
Bring summer into the office with light and airy pieces.
A relaxed yet pulled-together look for dinner at a nice-ish restaurant.
A cute and sporty look for running errands around the city.
So yes, layers are great. Think cooler than DC - we rarely have days in the 80s and up. 70s are considered really warm and hot days are usually not humid. Shoes that you can walk in, especially for the hills. Rain gear is good for fall & winter. You won't really need super heavy winter gear but I'd keep warmer fall clothes until you actually move. Keep in mind - it doesn't get super cool but not all places have heat.
Also check in with you office before buying a lot of work gear. Many workplaces here are super casual - jean and t-shirts.
San Francisco is a lot less conservative than DC. Lots of people here wear hip casual / performance stuff. Nice jeans, comfy walking shoes.
if you want to wear a skirt, i'd invest in lots of cute tights and i really like the suggestion of having a messenger bag, those are sooooo handy! carry a pair of tights and a light sweater, probably cashmere just because it's lightweight and super warm.
layering is also a very good suggestion. eventually you get used to the fluctuating cold/wind/sunny warmth.
one thing my mom always suggested when i bought clothes was to buy outerwear that's bright (not obnoxiously) because it gets quite foggy at night, especially if you are in the outer districts. better to be seen than not =)
also, welcome to the best city in the world!
Second, I love all of these outfits. So practical. I especially love the black dress in the second picture and the bag in the first.