I’m a Fashion Writer in L.A., and These Are the 3 Shoes Everyone’s Wearing

I recently realized that almost everyone in Los Angeles has the same taste in footwear. Walking to the end of a 200-person deep sample sale line, I decided to do a little fashion observing—if there was one place to get inspo, it was going to be there. And while the clothes varied from boho to casual-chic, there was one thing everyone had in common: the shoes. 

While there are endless styles to choose from, I noticed that the people in L.A. are primarily reaching for three options: Birkenstock sandals, colorful low-tops, and dad sneakers, all of which match the city’s laid-back, cool-girl vibe. Below, shop the summer shoes every L.A. girl is slipping into.

Birkenstock Sandals

Birkenstock’s chunky, buckled Arizona sandals might just be L.A.’s shoe of the summer, pairing effortlessly with everything from breezy linen dresses to vintage Levi’s. The Arizona slides—which boast two wide straps and a cork midsole—are the most popular style, even worn by celebrities like Margot Robbie and Dakota Johnson. While this classic white pair is sure to complement all of your summer looks, I personally love the brand’s Big Buckle style, which, as the name suggests, features exaggerated buckles that give the shoes a luxe look. With that said, I also adore the Cameron Diaz-worn rubber Arizona sandals for their practicality (waterproof!) and the $50 price.

Colorful Low-Top Sneakers

Streamlined low-top sneakers are far from new—I mean, it’s hard to leave the house without seeing a pair of Adidas Sambas—but people in L.A. are slowly retiring classic white and black sneakers in favor of eye-catching colorways. The bright trend is perfect for summer, and the pop of color can instantly elevate any wardrobe basics. 

If you still love the Sambas, consider grabbing them in this soft lilac shade and with a chunkier sole. For something bolder, I’d recommend Gola’s Elan sneakers, which are available in eight colors including a forest green and burnt red, as well as Puma’s $75-Club II Era sneakers.

Dad Sneakers

Dad sneakers might be controversial, but in L.A., they’re a cool-girl essential. The super chunky, almost orthotic-looking shoes dominated that sample sale line, where I spotted everything from puffy New Balances to metallic Asics and even super-oversized Hokas. These are perfect for stylish people on-the-go; they add a sporty-chic look to any outfit because they’re actually sporty. For anyone trying to get in their 10,000 steps, dad sneakers are a must.