As Seen in Los Angeles: The Chic Shoe Trend That Elevates Basic Black Trousers

With its oceanfront setting and year-round sunshine, Los Angeles living embodies a laid-back energy that naturally translates into a cool, casual dress code. While I tend to turn to New Yorkers for outfit inspiration during the colder months, come summer, my attention shifts west.

The Angelenos’ relaxed approach to dressing offers endless ideas for effortless, summer styling—and this morning, I came across a simple shoe trend I can’t believe I’ve overlooked until now. Spotted stepping out for the evening, L.A. resident Hailey Bieber wore a classic pair of black trousers, styled with a crisp white tee and a black leather jacket. So far, so straightforward. But it was her shoe choice that stopped me in my scroll.

Swapping out the ballet flats and Mary Janes currently dominating the trend cycle and would have been a natural choice for styling with the smart pants, Bieber opted instead for a strappy pair of black kitten-heel flip-flops. A subtle yet impactful update, the short heel adds just enough lift to elevate the outfit without sacrificing the comfort that defines West Coast dressing.