My mom grew up in Oakland and she’s 100% where my innate-city girl comes from. Oakland has changed so much since when she lived there but it’s especially fun to go back with her and hear the stories of which movie theater she would walk to as a little girl and where she went on her ice cream dates in high school. As more of my girlfriends move out of San Francisco and into Oakland I’ve found myself heading that way more often and finding new gems to share with my mama! It’s been cool to see the city evolve over the years and since I know SF so well it’s always fun to explore new hoods throughout the Bay Area.
My number one stop when I’m heading to Oakland? Neighbor. Thanks to my girlfriend Bianca for introducing me to this eclectic home decor gem. It’s where I bought this black fur for our dining table and was the main reason for heading back this past week (on the hunt for another fur for an upcoming shoot). Piedmont Avenue has quite a few spots worth wandering the street and popping into for a bite. Also, thanks to Bianca, Issues (for magazines) and KronnerBurger (for that red meat craving) top my list.
What to wear for a day of exploring? Cozy layers and comfortable skinny jeans, but of course. You can’t go wrong with gray and black–and this is hands down the softest sweatshirt I’ve owned. It’d be worth picking up another. Also worth noting, this is my very first pair of Joes Jeans. I ordered two styles to test, a petite, and a high-rise regular and ended up loving and keeping both as my other black pairs were all stretched out. A clean black skinny is a wardrobe essential! I can’t recommend this high-rise style more–the fit is perfect and such a flattering style on everyone!
Whenever I’m heading out for a day of exploring I usually start the trip in an oversized cozy cardigan coat for the drive, and swap my leather jacket later in the day or for a switch in the evening.
Next on the Oakland day trip must–Atomic Garden (another cool home shop where I picked up some more decor items for an upcoming party) just up the road on College Avenue, and a stop at Temescal Alley for coffee, plants and jewelry ogling. Every shop in this adorably cool alley is worth checking out but my absolute favorites are: Esqueleto (for jewels–I’m obsessed and want everything!), and Crimson Horticultural Rarities (for plants and cool pots). Also, if in the mood for mexican food (who isn’t always in the mood for mexican?)–around the corner is another must: Doña Tomás. Word on the street is they’re coming to Sacramento… my fingers and toes are all crossed this is true.
The Look | Sweatshirt (another cozy casual style). Skinny Jeans (also love this distressed style, and classic blue denim high-rise). Boots (similar).
Thank you to ShopStyle for collaborating on this feature!
Photography by Stephanie Rudy
