What to Wear in California’s Bay Area

Wondering what to wear for your next visit to the Bay Area? Or, maybe you’re a local looking for some fresh ideas. The Bay Area clothing style is casual and often artistic yet practical.

San Francisco, a prominent city in the Bay Area, is home to several popular brands like Gap Inc., Levi’s, and Everlane, and you’ll find cool and functional clothing on every corner throughout the entire region. 

Discover what to wear in the Bay Area below, complete with our expert jewelry recommendations. 

Get the Local Look

There are a few main styles to keep in mind when dressing the part in the Bay Area.

Bay Area Classics

The great thing about Bay Area style is that it’s eclectic, with an emphasis on comfort and wearing whatever makes you feel great. For a Bohemian, thrifted look that’s still practical, try a colorful scarf paired with bangle bracelets and dangle earrings. 

For a “tech casual” look that fits in with the tech capital of the world just south of San Francisco known as Silicon Valley, wear a classic button down, black pants, and a smartwatch. Diamond studs are a great addition to this easygoing outfit, and, if you’re married, plain wedding bands are popular over bold engagement rings. 

Denim is another a great choice for the Bay Area, as it goes with every style. And, with Levi’s headquartered in San Francisco since 1853, denim truly is part of the fabric of the city. Silver jewelry and hoop earrings always look good with denim. 

Whether you’re a tourist or a Bay Area local on the move, you’ll want to layer up every day. The area is known for its “micro climates,” meaning temps can vary as close as ten miles, and the fog and rain can set in at any time, so make sure you have a waterproof jacket. A chain necklace is great to pair with layers, as it can be seen even over a bulky sweater. 

Bay Area Trends

A big new trend in the Bay Area is understated style by unknown designers. Unlike fashion capitals like New York and Milan, it’s cool in the Bay Area to wear something more for its look than for its label. With this style, we recommend minimalist jewelry, like simple stackable rings or small metal stud earrings. 

Flats or other sensible shoes are also in style in the Bay Area right now, as they go with everything and are easy to walk around in. Pearls offer a nice, elevated look when paired with flats. 

Style by Season

Bay area temperatures tend to fluctuate daily, with a lot of fog and generally cooler temperatures in the morning and at night. No matter what time of year, it’s best to pack layers due to the unpredictable weather. 

As for shoes, combat boots offer a good combination of unique style and practicality for rainy days. We also recommend checking out Allbirds, a comfortable, sustainable shoe brand based in San Francisco. 

California Jewelry Recommendations

Jewelry that represents California makes for a great souvenir, gift, or a reminder of home. 

Classic Yellow Gold

California is the Golden State, so it only makes sense that you should wear 14k yellow gold to represent it. This state nickname represents the historical California gold rush, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and the golden sunlight and natural beauty that makes the state iconic. 

Engraved Jewelry

Getting a piece engraved with an etching of the state flower, the California Poppy, a location coordinate, or another local symbol is another great way to incorporate California into your jewelry. We also recommend city names or the state outline.

Where to Shop

The Bay Area is spread out across nine counties, so there are plenty of shopping options to choose from! Below are a few of our top choices for shopping in the area. 

Shopping Centers

• Union Square: This famous district in San Francisco has been a popular shopping choice for decades. Once one of the most famous places to shop in the world, it’s now known as a nostalgic landmark.
• Stanford Shopping Center: Located in Palo Alto, Stanford Shopping Center is an open-air mall near the Stanford University campus. It features premier and specialty stores, with something for everyone.
• Main Street Cupertino: This mixed-use area is the perfect combo of a local town square and a modern, trendy downtown. Explore, shop, and stop by our Cupertino location while you’re nearby.
• Broadway Plaza: Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza is self-described as a “high-end outdoor mall,” filled with favorite shops and restaurants. While you’re in the area, make sure to visit our Walnut Creek location.
• Haight Street: Haight Ashbury is a San Francisco neighborhood known for its part in the hippie movement. Stop by its many thrift stores while taking in the artistic scenery.
• Bridgepointe Shopping Center: Find all the staples you need in this open-air shopping center conveniently located in San Mateo. Browse clothes, grab lunch, and stop in the San Mateo Shane Co. store.

Shane Co.

We have three Bay Area Shane Co. stores in San Mateo, Walnut Creek, and Cupertino. 

Make sure to stop by your closest store to experience our selection and personalized service. Book an appointment at your store (or online) in advance to meet with an expert jewelry consultant.   

Leave a comment below or tag us on Instagram with your recommendations for what to wear in the Bay Area!