At just over five hours flying time, the state of California is our closest neighbor. The State is known for its free thinkers, beautiful beaches and sunny disposition. The California look is an eclectic blend of casual clothing, vintage finds and designer garbs and the Spring/Summer 2019 catwalks saw this bohemian look traveling the globe. Riding high in fashion circles is the laid-back style of West Coast shores.

Last summer, Michael Kors was spotted vacationing at the beach with his posse, and his collection mirrored the joys of days spent soaking up the sun. Models—guys and gals—wore surfer-inspired ensembles including bright T- shirts splashed with images of surfers riding epic waves as the sun set. The whole collection embodied the free spirit of Cali youth and endless summers. Other T-shirts designed by Raf Simons at Calvin Klein, decided to remind us sun seekers of more terrifying beach moments with tank tops baring the iconic image from the movie Jaws. All I could think was that perhaps working on your tan and holding the towel isn’t such a bad move.

Nothing says “hang ten” more than a piece of clothing made from neoprene, and many designers decided to splash into the fabric’s benefits. Etro’s swimsuits were given some street cred when crafted from wetsuit fabric, donned by a couple of bonafide pro-surfers and accessorized with Etro paisley surfboards. But nothing could beat Maria Serre’s upcycled wetsuit gown. Fitted on the top, flared and ruffled at the bottom with an ’80s sensibility. Surely some fashion-forward actress/singer will grab this for her red-carpet moment and steal the show.

Wash away any lingering doubts of California’s impute on the coming season’s style with the revival of 1960s hippy staple, tie-dye. Surfer vibes drenched the R13 show with colorful tie-dye tees, blazers and jeans—all worn altogether for maximin impact. Many designers dipped and dyed and embraced a look that symbolizes peace and freedom. A loose lilac and pink tie-dyed shirt by Proenza Schouler was given an extra dose of cool with the addition of acid-washed denim. But between the less-than-subtle pieces were some very wearable looks. Personally, Stella McCartney’s pastel-colored and softly dyed mini dresses will do nicely.

Kim Smith has been a professional wardrobe stylist in Honolulu since 2004. Born a true Londoner, Smith had a successful career in public relations in the fashion industry in London for more than eight years before moving to Hawai‘i in 2002. Smith’s work spans a vast array of magazines, retailers and television as well as working with individual clients on their specific style needs. See her work at kimsmithstyle.com.