From Downtown to Santa Monica, Los Angeles is known for its laid-back nature, oftentimes overlooked as one of the most fashion-forward cities in the world. Because of the effortless approach to everyday streetwear, the city is often underestimated when it comes to the early adaptation of trends wearing outerwear, knits, and accessories that have proven to be breakout hits of the season. It's always a good idea to look at what some of LA’s most fashionable people are wearing, as they often set the tone for sporting pieces before they become mainstream must-haves. LA’s fresh take on ready-to-wear is in a genre of its own, defining the iconic West Coast aesthetic.
Since 2021, fashionistas have been stepping out in a variety of wardrobe staples that are both fresh and modern but with a vintage feel. With clear sunny skies and 365 days of close-to-perfect weather, practicality and comfort encourage creative yet casual combinations when it comes to winter fashion.
Some of the leading trends include statement pieces that stray from typical fall classics but remain grounded in practicality. Oversized moto jackets and lengthy maxi skirts are all familiar fall fashions but the updated silhouettes feel excitingly new and current. Winter accessories like oversized fur hats make a statement yet, a cozy alternative to the subtle baseball caps that trended this summer.
There are so many options to wear this season, and as always I’m inspired by the most fashionable women in my city. For inspiration on how to broaden your wardrobe this season, check out the most underrated items taking over LA.
1.The Utilitarian Maxi
With mini skirts dominating every list of what to wear this fall, maxi skirts are quickly becoming an edgier alternative for fashion girls in LA. The long length creates a modestly modern silhouette perfect for a stylish transition from spring to fall and throughout winter. With a variety of designs and fabrics, there’s a maxi skirt that fits almost any occasion. Wear it with sneakers for a daytime look or pair a heeled sandal for a sexy night out.
2.The Abstract Print
Gaining traction over the last year, abstract prints inspired by high fashion designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier are still a favorite among local fashionistas. Hypnotizing geometric patterns have replaced classic animal prints as the go-to for cool girls in LA. Designed with maximalists in mind, this style is a fun addition to a semi-casual look paired with oversized cargo pants and square-toed high-heeled boots.
3.The Oversized Colorful Cardigan
During this time of year, clear skies are common in sunny southern California with subtle drops in temperatures for a slight taste of fall. An oversized cardigan is the perfect layering piece to make a cozy statement in the not-so-cold weather. Typically when worn, the comfy knit is kept cool and casual layered over a tank top paired with a skirt, trousers, or sweatpants for a stylish on-the-go look.
4.The Classic Motorcycle Jacket
I’m in my early 2000s era this fall revisiting my love for vintage leather motorcycle jackets as the coat trend begins to take over LA’s fashion-forward crowd. The heavy-duty leather and metal hardware embody a bad-to-the-bone persona for the fashionistas that live for the wild side. Pair with trousers or a full leather-on-leather ensemble with matching pants for an edgier approach to the season's most daring outerwear trend.
5.The Furry Statement Hat
Winter accessories, especially hats, are an essential addition to a fall/winter stylish look, even in a city that gets mildly chilly. Over the years, bucket hats have been created in an array of designs from crocheted knits to coated leather, getting bolder as the weather gets colder. This season, faux fur fabrics in a range of deep pigments and eye-catching oversized shapes are turning heads as the final piece to finish off a fashion-forward look this season.
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- The It List: LA’s Most Stylish Women Are Buying These Items This Summer ›
- 5 Outfit Ideas For A Chic Transition From Summer To Fall ›
- I Live In LA & These Are The Items That’ll Keep You Cool This Winter ›
Devale Ellis On Being A Provider, Marriage Growth & Redefining Fatherhood
In this candid episode of the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker talked with Devale Ellis, actor, social media personality, and star of Zatima, about modern masculinity, learning to be a better husband, emotional presence in marriage, fatherhood for Black men, and leading by example.
“I Wasn’t Present Emotionally”: Devale Ellis on Marriage Growth
Devale Ellis On Learning He Was a ‘Bad Husband’
Ellis grew up believing that a man should prioritize providing for his family. “I know this may come off as misogynistic, but I feel like it’s my responsibility as a man to pay for everything,” he said, emphasizing the wise guidance passed down by his father. However, five years into his marriage to long-time partner Khadeen Ellis, he realized provision wasn’t just financial.
“I was a bad husband because I wasn’t present emotionally… I wasn’t concerned about what she needed outside of the resources.”
Once he shifted his mindset, his marriage improved. “In me trying to be of service to her, I learned that me being of service created a woman who is now willing to be of service to me.”
On Redefining Masculinity and Fatherhood
For Ellis, “being a man is about being consistent.” As a father of four, he sees parenthood as a chance to reshape the future.
“Children give you another chance at life. I have four different opportunities right now to do my life all over again.”
He also works to uplift young Black men, reinforcing their worth in a world that often undermines them. His values extend to his career—Ellis refuses to play roles that involve domestic violence or sexual assault.
Watch the full episode below:
On Marriage, Family Planning, and Writing His Story
After his wife’s postpartum preeclampsia, Ellis chose a vasectomy over her taking hormonal birth control, further proving his commitment to their partnership. He and Khadeen share their journey in We Over Me, and his next book, Raising Kings: How Fatherhood Saved Me From Myself, is on the way.
Through honesty and growth, Devale Ellis challenges traditional ideas of masculinity, making his story one that resonates deeply with millennial women.
For the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker peels back the layers of masculinity with candid conversations that challenge stereotypes and celebrate vulnerability. Real men. Real stories. Real talk.
Want more real talk from xoMAN? Catch the full audio episodes every Tuesday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t miss the full video drops every Wednesday on YouTube. Hit follow, subscribe, and stay tapped in.
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6 Tabletop Sex Positions That'll Unlock You & Bae's Most Primal Desires
Something I will never tire of is finding new ways to bring new layers to intimacy. A wall you use as momentum, a bathroom sink to help you keep your balance as he worships you on his knees, a shower that is usually for cleansing but evolves into a sacred ritual of shared intimacy.
My favorite kind of sex is the kind of sex that prioritizes pleasure and connection. So, technically and thankfully, I can say most of my sex life has been quite pleasurable throughout the years. But the memorable encounters for sure take the cake. One such encounter actually took place on a kitchen counter, and with it unleashed inhibitions in ways I never anticipated while unlocking levels to top-tier sex. And that, that involved a kitchen counter.
Why Kitchen Counter Sex Just Hits Different
What is it about having your hips pressed into the edge of a kitchen counter that lets out something so primal in you? The cool-to-the-touch feel of the countertop against exposed skin as you rise to meet him again and again. The urgency in every movement. The playfulness of repurposing an everyday space for something far more erotic. If you’re looking to bring that energy into your own sex life, keep reading for positions and tips to explore.
1. The Bounce House
They don’t call it Bounce House for nothing. In this position, the penetrating partner lies flat on their back on a sturdy table or counter while the receiving partner straddles them, knees bent and facing away. With their hands gripping the edge of the surface for support, the receiving partner slides or bounces at their own pace, owning the rhythm, the motion, and the view.
According to sex therapist Michael Aaron, Ph.D., who spoke with Women’s Health, the receiving partner placing their legs between their partner’s creates a tighter sensation, while staying fully astride allows for more bounce and range of motion. Either way, this one puts the receiver in full control, and you know we love a good woman on top position. Pleasure and power? Say less.
2. The Bicycle
Well, you know what they say about riding a bike. In the case of this table top position, it's the receiving partner who is the rider...but not in the way you think. While lying back on a sturdy surface or a table, the receiver will bring their knees toward their chest, bending them as if in a cycling motion. The penetrating partner stands at the edge of the surface, grabbing the receiver's ankles, and guides themselves inside, slowly so as to savor the moment. This angle puts everything on display for the penetrating partner while allowing for deep, connected thrusting for the receiver.
To take things up a notch , the receiving partner can touch themselves or flex their thighs to control the depth or the rhythm. Because, who says only one person gets to have control?
3. Counter Offer
How could we be at the table and not use it to eat? Enter: Counter Offer. In this oral-focused sex position, the receiving partner perches on the edge of a counter or table, lying back or sitting upright with legs parted or bent for comfort. The penetrating partner kneels or stands between their thighs, depending on the setup and the kind of attention they’re ready to give. No doubt, this one’s all about access and intention.
With the vulva front and center, the height makes it easier to maintain eye contact, use hands freely for things like breast play or incorporating toys, and take their time with every moan-inducing taste. And that’s on five, six, seven, ATE.
4. Standing Doggy
Standing Doggy is what happens when a classic like doggy style gets an upgrade. Instead of being on all fours on a bed, the receiving partner bends over a hard surface like a table or counter, keeping their hips aligned at its edge. The penetrating partner stands behind and enters from the back, using the angle to go deeper and create a strong, steady rhythm. This one offers maximum control and visual appeal, especially if the penetrating partner reaches around for a little extra clitoral stimulation throughout thrusting.
This angle can get intense quickly, so bonus points if the receiving partner engages their pelvic floor muscles or shifts their weight to adjust how the pressure hits, especially if your goal is to hit that G-spot sweet spot.
5. Top Shelf
Men's Healthcalls this one "Yourself on the Shelf," but we like to call it "Top Shelf" because it's giving full view, full grip, and climax potential that's hard to top. The receiving partner sits on the edge of a sturdy table or counter while the penetrating partner stands in front of them and slowly slides in, thrusting while keeping them in position. From there, legs can wrap around their waist, arms can encircle their back, and the closeness at peak ecstasy? Chef's kiss.
If you have the core strength, add lifting to the menu for the final strokes leading to orgasm. Otherwise, allow the surface to the heavy lifting and enjoy the pleasure.
6. The Thumper
What better way to remind yourself that you're both the snack and the entrée than with a little tableside service courtesy of The Thumper? This position has the receiving partner kneeling on a sturdy table or counter (keyword: sturdy), hands gripping the edge or braced in front for support. The penetrating partner can then either kneel behind them (if there's room for two), or stay anchored on the ground with both feet planted on the floor (similar to the previously mentioned Standing Doggy). It all depends on the mood.
Kneeling on the table offers just the right amount of leverage for deep, steady strokes. The receiving partner can play with tightness by either keeping their knees closer together for a snug grip, or open their knees wider to invite more access, depth, and stretch. The Thumper is versatile that way, and the most important thing? The receiver gets to be the main course. Yum.
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