Being an east coast baby, Maryland girl, born and raised, I never really knew or cared about the differences in slang, food, and yes, fashion. But when it came time for me to take my first steps out of my parent’s house and through the shiny front gates of the University of Arizona, I wasn’t expecting the huge culture shock. I took one look around at all the tan bellies, bootie shorts, and peroxide scented blonde heads, and headed back to my dorm to do some research. Nope, my black skinny jeans, stressed leather boots, and knee length cardigan wasn’t going to cut it here.
Let me give you a taste of east coast fashion, and trends. If you are an Arizonan, you might not know what I mean when I say, on the east coast we dress for the seasons.. The east coast is all about layering. It is one of our favorite things to do. For winter we will throw on our tightest skinnies, add a printed blouse, layer a warm jacket, and then a sassy scarf, next a stylish winter coat, and our warmest pair of boots. Or Uggs. In the springtime we will layer a high-waisted floral skirt over a solid colored tank top and some tights or leggings, throw on a cute shrug or cardigan, and finish it off with a strappy pair of sandals. Or Uggs. For summer it is about bandage skirts, printed or beaded tanks, either cut off jean shorts, or nice black material ones, and a pair of rhinestone sandals. Fall time is a lot of dark colors, and is all about the scarves, hats, leggings, motorcycle jackets, and knee high boots. or Uggs. (Yes, we can safely say that Ugg boots are a must-have boot of the east coast)
Now lets fly 2423.88 miles over to the west coast. The first thing I noticed is that the style is a lot more laid back. The fashion compliments the year round tan. All of the shirts are light, in fun summer colors, and usually are cut out to show some skin. Whether it is a high hemline to show off your flat, tan stomach, or an open back. Usually these kind of shirts are paired with some jean shorts, (a universal trend), and stylized, glorified flip-flops. What I love about the west coast fashion is that there isn’t one particular style that everyone follows. Whether your sporting a floor length maxi dress to class, or a pair of shorts a tank top, everyone seems to have their own distinct sense of style. And not to step on the toes of Cover Girls, but it all just seems so easy, breezy, and beautiful.
So next time your flying bi-coastal, hopefully this article will help you out. Fashion-wise, I mean. You’re on your own with social skills, and language. Here’s a quick tip, on the east coast, the taxi drivers aren’t as nice, and we never say “Hella”. Hope that helps, and good luck!