San Diego style is a pretty cool place, and I think we all know that. It’s laid-back, sun-soaked, and always a little beachy, even when you’re miles from the water(lol)
I love that people here dress for comfort and style. I always think about breathable fabrics, fresh sneakers, oversized sunglasses and layers that can handle a sunny afternoon and a breezy evening.
If you’re planning a trip or just want to channel SoCal vibes in your wardrobe, I’ve put together a list of San Diego outfit ideas that are trending hard right now. Here’s what to wear:
Denim Shorts & Linen Button-Down
Photo by Bsubseach
This combo is peak San Diego. easy, casual, and ideal for all-day exploring.
I usually would tuck a lightweight linen button-down into a pair of relaxed denim shorts and throw on my favorite white sneakers or flat sandals.
A canvas tote and oversized sunglasses will complete the vibe.
Crop Top & Flowy Pants
Photo by ANRABESS
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from spending time in San Diego, it’s that flowy pants are everywhere.
I’d suggest to pair yours with a fitted crop top for a balanced look that’s super flattering. ie: Wide-leg linen trousers in cream or sage green with a neutral ribbed top.
Oversized Sweatshirt & Biker Shorts
Photo by trendy queen
Mornings and evenings can get surprisingly chilly thanks to that coastal breeze, so make sure to always pack a cute oversized sweatshirt. Throw it on over biker shorts with chunky sneakers or slip-ons.
It’s a comfy, sporty look that works for beach walks, coffee runs or just lounging around at Balboa Park. You can even layer a fanny pack (if that’s your style) across your chest for that cool-girl edge.
Matching Set
Photo by anrabess
Matching sets are basically the cheat code to looking put together without actually trying. I’m obsessed with soft knit or cotton sets in colors like dusty blue, beige or light olive.
You can find matching crop tops and skirts, shorts and button-downs. They’re breezy enough for the beach but polished enough for rooftop drinks in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Graphic Tee & Maxi Skirt
Photo by modern.opulence
This one is for the girls who love a mix of tomboy and feminine energy. I love tucking a vintage-inspired graphic tee into a printed or solid maxi skirt.
Add sneakers, a crossbody bag, and maybe a messy bun with some gold hoops. Believe me, you’ll look like you just casually stumbled out of a local boutique (in the best way). Overall, I think it’s an ideal combo for brunch spots like Morning Glory or Great Maple.
Ribbed Tank & High-Waisted Jeans
Photo by merokeety
You honestly can’t go wrong with a good ribbed tank and high-waisted jeans. Keep it simple with light-wash denim, a cropped tank and platform sandals or sneakers.
Bonus points if you put on on a lightweight cardigan or flannel to tie around your waist during the day. This outfit works just about anywhere in SD!
Sundress & Denim Jacket
Photo by cromoda
San Diego weather is basically made for sundresses. It’ll be borderline unacceptable if you forgot to pack one 😉
I love throwing on a midi or mini sundress with a denim jacket over the shoulders. It’s such an easy, feminine look that still feels super chill.
Go for floral prints, linen textures or solid pastel tones. You can dress it up with wedges or keep it low-key with white sneakers. I just think it’s great for early dinner dates with an ocean view.
Tank Top & Parachute Pants
Photo by ananyaaforyou
Yes, parachute pants are here to stay, and San Diego girls are rocking them perfectly! I’ve been seeing them in soft fabrics like nylon or cotton, usually styled with a sleek tank or cropped tee or even a corsette top.
It’s sporty, a little edgy, and comfy enough. I usually like to wear mine with a fitted tank, chunky sneakers, and a slick bun. Perfect for exploring neighborhoods like North Park or grabbing a poke bowl in Point Loma.
Tube Top & Cargo Skirt
Photo by bohopink
Tube tops look so good paired with a midi-length cargo skirt. I wore this outfit on a warm afternoon in Encinitas, and it looked goooood.
Keep the colors neutral like taupe, army green oreven black. And layer on some dainty jewelry! If you want a little coverage, feel free to add a cropped shirt jacket or cardigan for later in the day.
One-Piece Swimsuit & Beach Pants
Photo by summersalt
There’s nothing more San Diego than rocking your swimwear as a bodysuit. Get a sleek one-piece swimsuit with high-waisted beach pants when you’re heading from the sand to lunch.
Throw on a pair of slides, a woven bag, and a bucket hat and you’re all set to slay.
Button-Down Shirt & Denim Mini Skirt
Photo by charmingcharlie
This is my go-to for happy hour or early evening plans. A crisp button-down shirt that’s oversized or slightly tucked paired with a classic denim mini skirt feels fun yet polished.
Wear it with espadrilles or heels and finish the look with a woven clutch and a glossy lip. You’ll feel instantly put together, even if you’re just grabbing tacos and margaritas with friends.
Final Thoughts
San Diego outfits are all about striking the balance between laid-back and stylish. I love how people here dress with intention but never overdo it.
Comfort is key, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing personal style.
There are just so many ways to channel that carefree San Diego energy no matter where you are.
So next time you’re packing for San Diego (or just manifesting it), try a few of these looks. I promise you’ll fit right in!
