Greetings from Los Angeles! After arriving just a few days ago, one of our very first stops had to be Venice Beach. It’s a place I’ve been before, but this trip brought something new—a discovery I somehow managed to miss all those years I lived in LA: the Venice canals.
I honestly don’t know why it took me so long to wander into this part of Venice. For five years I called LA home, and yet, only now, on a short return visit, am I walking the narrow bridges and gazing at the pastel houses reflected in the calm water. Sometimes it takes distance to notice what’s been waiting nearby all along. Whatever the reason, I’m so glad I finally made it here.
Sunshine and Slow Walks
The weather couldn’t have been more perfect—warm without being heavy, with the kind of light that seems to kiss everything it touches. Venice has a way of making you want to slow down. We lingered along the paths, pausing to admire bougainvillea spilling over fences, brightly painted doors, and the charm of little boats bobbing in the water. Every corner felt like it was asking to be photographed.
Packing for this trip, I gravitated toward easy, lightweight pieces—mostly denim shorts and mini lengths to match the sun-soaked days. Out of everything I tucked into my suitcase, my favorite piece has been a playful polka dot romper. It’s light, whimsical, and comfortable, the sort of outfit that feels effortless yet instantly put-together. For anyone looking for something similar, this Elliatt dress (under $100) comes close to capturing the same vibe.
Comfort with a Twist
Travel days call for comfort, but I’ve found that comfortable doesn’t have to mean plain. Alongside my easy dresses and shorts, I packed flats and mules—pairs that I knew I could walk in for hours. My favorites right now are a pair of rose-blush slides with a little something extra.
I’ve always been a fan of embellished shoes. A touch of sparkle or texture can instantly elevate even the simplest outfit. The only downside? Many embellished pumps and mules come with a hefty price tag. My workaround: a little DIY magic. I picked up shoe clips online for under $10, removed the clips, and used super glue to secure them to my slides. The result? A pair of unique, embellished shoes that feel one-of-a-kind. They’re fun paired with casual outfits, charming with feminine pieces, and best of all, they didn’t break the bank.
The Magic of Venice
Our time in Venice wasn’t just about fashion or even the canals—it was about the feeling of being present. There’s something so refreshing about slowing down in a place that thrives on color and character. One moment we were strolling past the eclectic shops on Abbot Kinney, the next we were tucked away on a quiet bridge above the water, watching the sunlight ripple across the surface. Venice offers this perfect mix of energy and tranquility, and I couldn’t help but feel inspired by it.
It reminded me of the importance of taking little detours, of not always rushing to the obvious spots, and of keeping an open mind to the places you’ve overlooked—even if you’ve lived there before.
Style Notes for Sunlit Days
For anyone planning their own trip to Venice (or anywhere with that same breezy, coastal charm), here are a few of my takeaways:
- Pack light but versatile pieces. A romper, denim shorts, or mini dress can easily go from a casual walk to a dinner out with just a change of shoes.
- Embrace flats and slides. Comfort is key when walking for hours, but choosing embellished or uniquely styled pairs adds personality without sacrificing ease.
- Get creative with accessories. DIY details—like the shoe clips I repurposed—are simple ways to refresh your wardrobe and make your pieces feel special.
It’s a reminder that style doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Sometimes, the most charming looks are the ones that feel effortless and personal.
A Weekend Well-Spent
We had so much fun capturing moments in Venice. From the golden streets of the beach to the serene charm of the canals, every stop felt like a postcard waiting to be shared. And while the photos tell part of the story, it’s the slower moments—the laughter between shots, the warmth of the sun on my shoulders, the discovery of a hidden corner—that made this weekend so special.
I hope your own weekend was filled with cheer, sunshine, and a little bit of wonder. And if you find yourself in Los Angeles, don’t wait as long as I did to wander into the canals. They’re a hidden gem that adds a touch of magic to Venice—a reminder that even in a city as big and busy as LA, there are always quiet corners waiting to surprise you.
