Dearest Laguna Beach, greetings from your new fashion authority! I’m Francesca—Fran, if you’re feeling particularly intimate. While I cherished my time at Vogue, I’ve since traded the Garment District for the understated charm of coastal living. Fear not—though I’ve stepped away from Vogue, my fashion eye remains as discerning as ever. I’m here to share the insights I’ve gathered, aiming to inspire, excite, and make every occasion a reason to dress with flair.
Welcome to “What Fran Wore,” where I’ll guide you in translating the latest fashion trends into our sun-kissed, effortlessly elegant style. Each column will feature not just styling tips but a curated blend of trend forecasts and local shopping gems—designed to elevate your wardrobe and inspire a season of sartorial brilliance. So, secure your sunglasses, Laguna—the fashion tide has arrived!
Let’s dive into the fashion rule that’s long past its prime: no white after Labor Day. While this might have once been gospel for some fashion legends, here in our sun-drenched Laguna Beach, it’s nothing more than a misguided notion. Consider this rule officially retired.
White isn’t just for the summer months; it has seamlessly transitioned into fall. My favorite trick? Pair a white summer staple with leather boots. Imagine a white eyelet dress meeting its perfect match in black combat, moto, or riding boots. It’s a sophisticated dance of airy elegance and structured boldness—ideal for our beachside chic. This season’s boots are all about the hardware—think buckles, harness rings, and studs. While Miu Miu may have claimed the coveted “Boots of the Season” title, brands like Frye, Sandro, Free People, and Steve Madden offer equally chic alternatives. And for those of us who have held onto our boots from the last trend cycle, Factotum Shoe & Handbag Repairs is the ultimate local destination for a top-notch sole tune-up or leather polish. Their expertise is unrivaled; they even came to my rescue when I fell head over heels for a pair of Roger Vivier knee boots I couldn’t remove without a helping hand. Their custom stretching services guarantee a perfect fit—or, in my case, a fit that’s slightly less like a glove.
While this approach should serve us well in our perpetually delightful weather, don’t shy away from white jeans as temperatures dip. Embrace them in a chic monochromatic ensemble or pair them with camel and neutral tones. White jeans aren’t just a fleeting summer romance—they’re a year-round affair that can elevate any wardrobe. The quintessential secret to perfecting white jeans? Avoid stark white and opt for an off-white hue that lends a more lived-in feel and transitions seamlessly across all seasons.
When selecting a boot to complement your denim, the Chelsea remains the epitome of reliability, versatility, and comfort. Personally, I’m still partial to the 2023 versions featuring trendy lug soles—they add a touch of edge to the design, a bit of extra height, and practical traction.
Ultimately, as we cast aside outdated fashion norms, remember: true style transcends seasonal constraints. Embrace the versatility of white year-round and continue to push the boundaries of your wardrobe. Until next time, let’s keep redefining fashion with flair, on our own terms.
Francesca Barker McCormick is a Hispanic-American actress and Laguna Beach resident with a rich background in the luxury fashion industry. Her fashion sense led her to New York City, where she worked as a Vogue market stylist, representing the brand and hosting events. Francesca collaborated with renowned fashion houses such as Balmain, Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Marc Jacobs, Moncler, Ralph Lauren and others.
