
Photo by Jasmin Chew on Unsplash
Summer is the most relaxing and carefree time of the year, when we finally get to unwind and take a break from our hectic lives. For that reason, most of us want that same effortlessness to reflect in our fashion sense as well. Where better to look than the casual yet chic California girl style? Whether you’re going on holiday or you just want to look more nonchalant and relaxed every day this summer, here’s how you can achieve that effortlessly gorgeous Cali girl beach look!
*This post is written by Claire. She writes on a regular base for my blog with lovely informative posts!
Mix up your swimwear pieces
Photo by Joshua Rawson-Harris on Unsplash
Swimwear is a quintessential aspect of summer and relaxing days spent lounging on the beach. However, that doesn’t mean you have to waste a lot of money on new bikinis every week in order to have a different beach look each time you hit the shore. Just do what fashionable Cali girls do instead. Make most of those two-piece swimsuits that are already in your closet by mixing and matching different bikini pieces to create a new look – such as combining a solid bottom with a printed top piece. For an extra chic moment, switch your usual beach cover-ups for an oversized shirt or a floral kimono, and achieve the ultimate California vibe.
Embrace the boho chic vibe

Photo by Joshua Rawson-Harris on Unsplash
Even though the carefree boho style is mostly associated with Coachella, California girls love incorporating this relaxed look into their everyday outfits as well. Especially when it comes to casual beach style. So, if you want to achieve that classic Cali beach look, aim for a looser, freer and more breathable vibe. Opt for ripped denim shorts, flowy cotton blouses, crochet crop tops, and linen wide-leg trousers. Accessorize your fashionable beach outfits with a pair of nude oversized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed wicker hat. Don’t forget the most important California beach girl staple of all – a pair of brown leather gladiator sandals.
Go for a voluminous hairstyle
As California is all about looking effortless and relaxed, gorgeous beach waves seem to be the most popular California girl hairstyle. However, they’re nothing without long, thick and voluminous hair that gives more depth and dimension to chic flowing hairstyles. So, if you aren’t blessed with naturally long and luscious hair, a great idea would be to invest in quality hair extensions that will give you the length and fullness you need. Don’t be afraid to experiment with curling irons and salt sprays as well. It can help you create that messy and wavy effect, in case you have a straighter hair texture.
Keep your makeup minimal
Women in California tend to be more on the natural and organic side. They are putting an emphasis on youth and their inherent beauty. For that reason, a full face of heavy makeup can rarely be seen on Cali girls. Instead, they opt for very minimal, barely-there makeup looks they could wear every day, even at the beach. This means that they swap out a heavy foundation for a tinted moisturizer, or skip a base altogether. They just use a concealer to cover up any imperfections. Cali girls use a warm bronzer, instead of a contour, for that sun-kissed look, as well as a shimmery highlighter for a beautiful glow. With a touch of mascara and a nude lip gloss, the ideal California girl makeup look is complete.
Construct a good skincare routine

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Minimal makeup can never look good without clear and glowing skin. Not to mention the negative impact of constant sun exposure on the health and the beauty of your skin. That is exactly why California girls think skincare is absolutely essential. And why they always treat their skin kindly, and ensure it looks its best. If you want to construct a good skincare routine as well, make sure to thoroughly remove your makeup every day. Use a gentle cleanser each morning and night to get rid of any dirt and built-up sebum. Opt for a balancing toner, and apply a nourishing, hydrating moisturizer twice a day for a flawless complexion. Of course, don’t forget to apply an SPF 30+ sunscreen every time you head outside, to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun. California girls wear sunscreen in winter as well.
With just a few style changes, and a couple of extra steps in your beauty routine, you too can look as effortlessly beautiful and chic as a California girl next time you visit the beach.
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California girls have so much style. I’m a boho girl so it makes total sense why I love these ideas.
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Author
It does!
These are nice tips to get that Californian girl style. I so love the modern boho style!
https://www.aproposh.com
Author
It is lovely!
These are great tips! Love a laid back california girl vibe!
~Melissa xx
Author
Thanks Melissa!
Oh yes! Thanks for your tips!
The Best Wallet
Author
My pleasure!
Love the girl with mixed up swimwear pieces!
Men’s Style
Author
Thanks!
you are talking my part of the world!!!! didn’t know california beach girl was a thing ; )
xo eva
Author
Well it is here and always has been!
I’m as far away from a California beach girl as you can get, but keeping makeup minimal and establishing a good skincare routine is sensible advice even if your Summer is spent in your garden! xxx
Author
Haha, I totally agree. On the skincare routine! Well on the Cali girl thing too, lol!
I keep wanting to mix up my swim wear this way. Now that I’ve started wearing two pieces again, I’m going to try it.
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Author
You should! And create a Arizona girl look!
Lovely read. Reminded me of when I was living in SoCal. But not that much time for the beach just work work work. Haha. Bt whenever I return I turn into a full fledged denim babe. Soooo embarrassing :))) xo Sabina
Author
Hahaha, denim is embarrassing! Lol.
Fun post! Summer is all about being casually chic and minimalist in my opinion and Claire shared some wonderful tips for achieving that! Thanks for linking up with me, my friend.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Author
Thanks Shelbee!
As a California girl myself I can say these tips are SPOT ON! Summer is supposed to be fun and relaxed and your style should be too! Great post! ?
Author
Thanks Jenna! I am sure Claire appreciates that!
Excellent points, Nancy! Given my pale skin, I’ve always been all about protecting my skin from sun damage. I learned early on that I don’t tan, I burn.
Thank you for sharing with Creative Compulsions!
Michelle
https://mybijoulifeonline.com
Author
Oh that is not good. I love to enjoy the sun.