Occupy Outdoors


Summer weather! Maybe? I know we’ve all been waiting for it, and although we’re not quite there yet, it sure is on the horizon. These warm days are filled with the aroma of blossoming flowers, and pure happiness. It’s that time again. No matter where you are, this bit of sunshine gives us all the chance to get out and get active! When the rain is falling, it’s easy to trick ourselves into cozying up on the couch, watching rom-coms, and drinking cups upon cups of tea (at least I find myself falling into this trap.) But with these couple rays of sunlight here and there, we have no excuse. So let’s do something, anything, really. Living in Santa Cruz, I am privileged enough to have a beautiful Pacific shore less than a mile away. What better place than to lounge at the beach and soak up the sun? Now, of course, we have to go to the beach in style, right? Dress up those cute beach outfits with some stylish and comfy sandals, perfect for the beach.

L to R: Sierra, strongtoeshoes.com, $80; Athena, strongtoeshoes.com, $90
L to R: Sierra, strongtoeshoes.com, $80; Athena, strongtoeshoes.com, $90

StrongToeShoeCo.(products shown above) is an up-and-coming shoe company with cute and comfy sandals for any style, especially on these warm and sunny days! Check em’ out.

As for the active part, why not ride in style down to the beach! Long boarding is just one of the various activities apparent throughout the town, so hop on a bike or board and have some fun.

Long boarding

Even if you make a fool out of yourself at first, sometimes that’s just what you have to do to have fun. With my newest addition (below) I may fall off here and there, but it sure is sweet to have a little fun.

Goldcoast 'The Rebirth', goldcoastlongboards.com, $160
Goldcoast 'The Rebirth', goldcoastlongboards.com, $160

Although life is busy, enjoying these days while you can is a must. If you’ve ever been the climbing type, why not indulge in your surroundings. Our world is a wonderland for breathtaking adventures with great sights to see. Although we’re not birds, overlooking the world is a profound experience. So why not get as high up as possible. My way of achieving this...climbing a mountain!

Mountain climbing

Whether you want to hike up one or go the harder route...find some friends, borrow some gear, and go make the most of your day. If you’re up for the literal climb, start with the basics: shoes and a harness! Whether on the east coast or west, north or south, there are great climbing gyms and beautiful walls. Check out gear or borrow some and get on adventuring.


Red Chili Durango Lace Climbing Shoes, gearx.com, sold out; Climbing harness

If you’re afraid of heights, or speeding on a long board, then just lace up some running shoes and enjoy the view. If you’re on a college campus, then enjoy your recreation center. Go for a swim, pick up a ball, or cruise on a bike. If you’re lucky enough to have some free time, make the most of it. And most of all enjoy the view!

Beautiful sunset

Slugs&kisses

Campus Connection


Okay, so I know slugs may not be the most attractive species out there, but I must say…they’ve got some style. From eerie fog and pouring rain to a glowing sun and hot spring days, fashion and activities are ever changing here on campus at UC Santa Cruz. Being active in political and social debates, it’s no wonder that students express themselves through their eccentric style.

With this late and ornery winter, it’s time to squeeze out flowing tanks and form fitting dresses. My motto: keep it cute, but make it cozy! Taking a plain color base and dressing it up with colorful earthy accessories never fails!

Cap Sleeve Gypsy Lace Dress, freepeople.com, $128
Cap Sleeve Gypsy Lace Dress, freepeople.com, $128

With classes and social obligations there’s rarely an excess of time. Fortunately, you don’t always need to spend hours on hair and make-up, instead, spruce up with some eccentric jewelry. Rings and necklaces can turn any outfit into a stylish jumble, and the best part is it’s quick and easy!

Jewelry
L to R: Abalone Shell Silver Ring, silverjewelleryireland.com, $50.77; Candelaria Mine Turquoise Ring, theturquoisemine.com, $260; Verdigris Twig Necklace sold by QuirksAndCrafts, etsy.com, $26

For winter, if it ever comes…it’s all about form fitting cords and jeans. Just toss them on. Chances are they’ll go with just about anything: boots, sandals, flats, whatever fits your mood…or the weather!

Brown Rag and Bone Jeans
Courtesy: rag & bone

Free People
Courtesy: Free People

In the breezy sun (Lucky Brand) flats or (Frye) moccasins add a charming kick at the end of an outfit, literally. And when the cold commences, there’s nothing like laced or buckled boots and cozy socks. Personally, keeping it classy with Sperry Top-Sider adds the perfect finish to a swift and trendy ensemble!

shoes

shoes
L to R: Sperry Top-Sider Starpoint, zappos.com, $95.99 (sale); Frye Alex Tassel Moccasin, nordstrom.com, $157.95; Lucky Brand Erla Flat, nordstrom.com, $58.95;Sperry Top-Sider Original 2 Eye Olive Suede, jildorshoes.com, $90

To sum it up, Santa Cruz is just as diverse or active in style as it is in all other aspects. Nonetheless, such an expression of personality can be taken to just about anywhere. I hope you all find some inspiration in the crazy assortment of stylistic choice.

Slugs & Kisses

 
Layla Ericson
Fashion Babbler
Coming from a small town just an hour west of S. Lake Tahoe, I have acquired a love for the beautiful outdoors. I enjoy winters full of skiing and summers full of friends and river adventures. I am currently attending UC Santa Cruz in the heart of the California redwoods with the ocean close by. With my ever-changing climate I have developed a knack for stylish outerwear in any weather.
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