My 5-Part Lookbook Adventure

A Journey Through Style: 

Fashion has always been a way for me to express myself, even when I’m miles away from home. There’s something about piecing together an outfit—whether it’s a carefully curated look or a last-minute grab—that makes me feel grounded, no matter where I am in the world. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been hopping across cities and continents, from the foggy hills of San Francisco to the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles, then across the Atlantic to the ancient charm of Rome, and finally to the Baltic beauty of Riga and broader Latvia. Each stop has taught me something new about style, adaptability, and the power of a good accessory. I’ve decided to capture it all in a five-part lookbook series, featuring my favorite outfits from each destination. Today, I’m kicking things off with Look #1 from LA, but first, let’s talk about the threads (literal and figurative) that tie my style together—accessories, confidence, and a touch of personal flair.

The Accessory Obsession: Why Bags Are My Signature

I’ll admit it—I’m a little obsessed with designer bags. There’s something about a beautifully crafted handbag that feels like an extension of me. I know it might sound pretentious, and sure, I could probably pull off any old tote and make it work. But there’s a magic to those signature pieces—the ones that elevate your look from “just fine” to “oh, wow.” A Burberry satchel or an Louis Vuitton crossbody isn’t just a bag; it’s a statement. It’s the chic glam factor that takes a simple jeans-and-tee combo and turns it into something polished and intentional.

Some days, I don’t feel like fussing over an outfit. Maybe I’m jet-lagged from a red-eye flight or just not in the mood to layer on the drama. That’s when I reach for one of my favorite bags. Instantly, it adds that extra “umph” factor—like a caffeine shot for my style. I’ve tested this theory across airports, city streets, and even a random café in Riga where I was nursing a latte and people-watching. A good bag doesn’t just carry your essentials; it carries your vibe. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend it. You don’t need to splurge on a designer piece—pick a brand you love, something that feels like “you,” and make sure it complements your look. It’s less about the label and more about the confidence it gives you.

Jewelry: Less Is More (But Make It Count)

While I’m all about bags, jewelry is a different story. I’m not one of those people who piles on rings, necklaces, and bracelets until they jingle with every step. I’ve seen those overloaded ladies—dripping in every piece they own, trying to make a point—and it’s just not my thing. For me, jewelry is about restraint and intention. I like a single statement piece that pulls the look together without screaming for attention.

Back in the day, I was all about Guess bracelets and earrings—those chunky, bold designs that felt so right in the moment. Now, I lean toward simpler picks, like my DKNY watch. It’s sleek, functional, and just dressy enough to work with anything. Whether I’m rushing through San Francisco’s Embarcadero or strolling along Rome’s cobblestone streets, that one piece is enough. It completes the look without overwhelming it. That’s the key, I think—knowing when to stop. Accessories should enhance, not compete. It’s a personal choice, and I’ve learned to trust my instincts. Some days I’ll go for the lesser option—a minimalist stud or a thin bangle—and it still feels perfect.

The Lookbook Journey Begins: Look #1 from LA

Now, let’s dive into the first chapter of my five-part lookbook series. This look comes straight from Los Angeles, a city that’s all about effortless cool with a side of Hollywood polish. I picked up this outfit from Wetseal, a brand I’ve loved for years because it nails that balance of chic and accessible. There’s something about their pieces that feels fresh and gorgeous, like they’re made for those sun-drenched LA days where you want to look good without trying too hard.

The centerpiece of Look #1 is a flowy, off-shoulder top in a crisp white that catches the California light just right. It’s paired with high-waisted denim shorts—faded just enough to feel lived-in but tailored enough to keep it sharp. The whole vibe is relaxed yet put-together, perfect for bouncing between Venice Beach and a lunch spot in West Hollywood. Wetseal has this knack for creating clothes that feel like a landmark final touch—pieces that anchor your style without overpowering it.

Of course, no LA look is complete without the right accessories. I paired this outfit with my favorite Burberry tote—a structured beauty with that iconic check pattern. It’s roomy enough for my sunglasses, phone, and a bottle of water (hydration is key in that LA heat), but it still feels glamorous. For jewelry, I kept it simple with a single Guess bracelet—silver, chunky, and just bold enough to nod to my early accessory days without going overboard. Footwear-wise, I went with strappy sandals in a neutral tan. They’re comfortable for walking Melrose Avenue but sleek enough to match the vibe.

I wore this look on a day spent exploring LA’s eclectic mix of grit and glamour. I started at the Santa Monica Pier, where the salty breeze played with the hem of my top, then wandered over to Abbot Kinney Boulevard for some boutique browsing. By the time I hit a rooftop café for golden-hour drinks, I felt like the outfit had carried me through the day effortlessly. That’s what I love about Wetseal—it’s chic, it’s gorgeous, and it adapts to whatever the day throws at you.

Why Lookbooks Matter to Me

This LA look is just the beginning. Over the next four parts, I’ll be sharing outfits from San Francisco, Rome, Riga, and a broader Latvia adventure. Each one reflects not just the city’s personality but also how I felt in the moment—whether I was chasing fog in SFO, sipping espresso in Rome, or marveling at Riga’s Art Nouveau architecture. I’ve been posting these looks on my YouTube channel too, so if you’re curious, swing by and check out the full lookbook. There’s something about seeing it all come together—photos, video, and a little commentary—that makes it feel real.

Lookbooks aren’t just about clothes for me. They’re a diary of where I’ve been and who I was in those moments. Traveling can be chaotic—flight delays, lost luggage, language barriers—but style is my constant. It’s how I reclaim a sense of control and creativity, even when I’m thousands of miles from home. Plus, sharing them with you all is a way to connect, to spark ideas, and maybe even inspire someone to try a new accessory or step out of their fashion comfort zone.

A Peek Ahead: What’s Next?

So, what can you expect from the rest of this series? In San Francisco, I leaned into layers—think cozy sweaters and a killer trench coat to battle that foggy chill. Rome called for something timeless yet bold, inspired by the city’s mix of history and high fashion. Riga brought out a softer, romantic side with muted tones and delicate textures, while Latvia as a whole pushed me to experiment with rugged, practical pieces that still felt stylish. Each look has its own story, its own accessory hero, and I can’t wait to break them down for you.

For now, though, let’s linger on LA. That Wetseal top and those denim shorts are still in my suitcase, ready for their next adventure. The Burberry bag? It’s perched on my chair as I type this, a reminder of how a good accessory can turn a day into a moment. If you’re building your own lookbook—whether it’s for travel or just daily life—my advice is simple: start with what you love. Maybe it’s a bag, a watch, or a pair of earrings. Find that one piece that gives you the “umph,” and let the rest fall into place.

Final Thoughts (For Now)

Fashion is personal. It’s not about rules or trends—it’s about what makes you feel like the best version of yourself. For me, that’s a mix of designer bags, minimal jewelry, and brands like Wetseal that keep it fun and fresh. As I roll out this lookbook series, I hope you’ll join me on the journey. Head over to my YouTube channel to see Look #1 in action, and let me know what you think. Have a favorite accessory trick up your sleeve? Drop it in the comments—I’m always up for some style inspo.

Next stop: San Francisco. Stay tuned.