To me it has seemed there has always been a secret war between the East Coast and West Coast. There are various contrasting characteristics associated with each side of the United States and that includes their style and fashion choices. Thinking of both coasts individually, two completely different vibes and aesthetics come to mind, and what is most important is appreciating the differences between each.
Just from watching movies and T.V. shows and paying attention to the news, it is not hard for anyone to notice some differences between the East Coast and West Coast. Most people don’t need to be very familiar with one or both to notice these differences. From the industries that are prominent in each, the cultures that prevail amongst their populations, and even down to their styles. I recently visited San Diego, California, and got to see first hand these differences.
Firstly, I grew up going into New York City, and going to school just across the river was no coincidence. I have always dreamed of living and working in NYC. I worship Carrie Bradshaw, I have studied the city streets, I’ve gone to most every observatory deck, museum, popular attraction the place has to offer, when Empire State of Mind comes on I belt those lyrics like it is my anthem — I even have the Empire State Building tattooed on my body! So it is safe to say that I LOVE NYC.
All that being said, California is… BREATHTAKING. Breathtaking might even be an understatement, and it is no wonder California is the country’s most populated state. San Diego, where I visited, is practically paradise. It is not incredibly hot throughout the year however, the city barely knows what a rain cloud looks like. Blue skies are blanketed throughout the city for days on end. It is gorgeous, and perhaps this climate gives way to the style that persists in Cali. Bright, warm colors, high top sneakers, denim shorts, tank tops, grunge flair jeans are all prominent in their closets. When I think of Cali, I think of this aesthetic of blue skies, palm trees, sunsets over the ocean, golden hour, In-N-Out, surfing, and bright colors. Somehow Californians have figured out how to represent these features of their state through their style. Because the state hardly gets cold, most people don’t own any heavy jackets. I think dressing in warm weather is easier than dressing in the cold, it is more effortless and that comes through in their clothes. The vibes are all very surf shop gear, laidback, and maybe even a mix between beachwear and errand running.
New York, on the other hand, is the opposite of laid back. Everything is fast paced, everything is happening in real time, and everyone is in a rush. There is so much hustle, the city itself is filled with muted colors and neutrals. I would not say it is dreary, I would say it means business. New York doesn’t have time to waste. It is big, it is bold, and it is ruthless. It is cold, metaphorically, and for much of the year, literally. The need for layers and heavy coats has its effect on New York style as well. Every day is an opportunity, New Yorkers know that and dress accordingly. New York style is very much full of neutral colors, professional attire, trendy, chic, and always polished, even on the weekends. New Yorkers dress the part, that is some of the reason why I have always been drawn to this city. I picture myself strutting down Fashion Ave in stilettos, in my business attire with a popping red lip and a high, straight ponytail that says, “I’m here to get sh*t done!” New Yorkers cringe at the thought of Silicon Valley’s infamous sweatpants and flip-flop style offices. To each their own.
For me, I can appreciate both styles. And I even want to participate in both! In California, I wanted to get the full experience by trying to dress like a Californian to the best of my ability. When I go into New York, I get in my New Yorker mindset and dress accordingly. So no, I do not think one is better than the other. Even with all my bias toward NYC, I am inspired by the Cali vibes. To me, each is a representation of their climate, culture, and geographical location and I love that! My brother, who has lived on both coasts mentioned to me to think of it like this: in California, many people live near the beach. The beach is immersed into their lifestyle, and they don’t necessarily view the coast as a vacation destination because they already live there. While on the East Coast, for many of us, the beach is a summer activity, and it is where we go on vacation. The beach is not a part of our lifestyle year round. This observation relates back to the difference in our styles and cultures as well. Which coast is better in your opinion? Or are you like me and you can appreciate both for their respective uniqueness and unfailing ability to stay true to themselves?
Passion For Fashion is an Opinion culture column used to explore the world of personal style, fashion tips for students, and more.
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