Rainy Days in Los Angeles

things to do on a rainy day

Rainy Days in Los Angeles

When rain hits Los Angeles everything comes to a halt. Luckily this isn’t something we have to deal with very often, so when we get a rainstorm I look forward to the change. Since our most recent one lasted a few days I had no choice but to venture out of my apartment. While outside, I paused to admire how beautiful (and clean) the city looked; how the skyscrapers sparkled and glistened. During these four gloomy days, I listened to my rainy day playlist, did an at home facial, created recipes from new cookbook, watched a movie, caught up on my TV shows, and generally enjoyed a break from the sunny weather. Whether I’m heading out in the storm or staying in for a cozy day; these are my rainy day must haves.

things to do on a rainy day

1. Wine Glasses | VISKI

Because there’s nothing better than sipping a glass of wine while reading a good book and listening to the raindrops.

2. Cookbook | 15 Minute Vegan

I received this cookbook for Christmas and during the rainstorm I made Breakfast Burritos (pg 32), and Black Bean, Sweetcorn, and Avocado Quesadillas (pg 93). Ps: I did “cheat” by adding a little cheese.

3. Waterproof Tote to Protect Your Essentials | Opening Ceremony

When I’m outside, I make sure to have a waterproof tote so I don’t ruin one of my handbags. I bought this Opening Ceremony holographic bag for my sister as a Christmas present and fell in love with it as much as she did.

4. Organic Deep Conditioning Hair Mask | Luxe Organix

Normally when I wash my hair, I’m in a rush. This past Monday I took some extra time and applied a deep conditioning treatment. As soon as I combed my hair out, I saw a difference in the texture. I will be incorporating this into my haircare routine more often and not waiting for the rain to remind me to do so.

5. DIY Facial Kit | Patchology Chic-Ender Kit

I love facials, whether I’m getting one done at a spa or doing it myself at home. As I got ready for the day, I applied FlashPatch Rejuvenating Eye Gels. Later that evening as the rain continued to come down, I took my makeup off with the Clean AF Refreshing Facial Wipes, and used my regular facial cleanser. I then applied the FlashMasque Hydrate Sheet Mask, followed by FlashPatch Restoring Night Eye Gels, and Restoring Night Cloud Masque. It was the ideal way to end a cold winter day.

6. Books | The McSweeney’s Store

One of my favorite things about a storm is discovering a good book to indulge in. I love this rainy day collection that comes with three best sellers; Miriam Toews’s All My Puny Sorrows; Alejandro Zambra’s My Documents; and David Shields and Samantha Matthews’s That Thing You Do With Your Mouth. Each of these intriguing books have been featured in publications such as; The Boston Globe, The New Yorker, The Washington Post, Slate, Esquire, Huffington Post, Vice, and many more.

7. Snacks | Dylan’s Candy Bar

Snacks are essential when you’re stuck inside. Luckily I had saved my mini s’mores for just that reason. PS: They go perfectly with hot chocolate!

8. Game | Ridley’s Games Room

I love board games but for some reason I don’t play them as often as I’d like. When it starts to drizzle, I put on my rainy day playlist and I’ll break out anything from Scrabble to trivia games, and force my boyfriend to participate.

9. Rain Scented Candle | Capri Blue

I love the clean fresh scent of rain, and when I want to bring that inside I’ll light this candle from Capri Blue.

10. Faux Fur Throw | Madison Park

When the temperatures plunge below 50 degrees, my initial thought is turn up the heat. However, this dries out my skin and makes my sinus issues worse. This year I picked up a warm fluffy throw to help keep warm and keep the heat down.

11. Cozy Slippers | UGG

Growing up in the freezing cold winters of Massachusetts warm slippers were a winter essential. Even though I don’t have to deal with the bitter cold here in L.A. as soon as the temperatures drop I take my slippers out of the closet.

12. A Classic Movie | Breakfast at Tiffany’s

During the day I don’t allow myself to watch movies because it makes me feel unproductive. However, when the rain is coming down and there’s a gray, overcast sky I forget about that and I’ll have a classic playing in the background. Last week it was Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

13. Waterproof Chelsea Boots | Jeffrey Campbell

I learned the hard way when I was in New York and it was pouring—I literally had to hop, skip, and jump over puddles to save my shoes. When I returned home, I invested in a pair of trendy rain boots.

14. A Mug for Hot Cocoa or Tea | Nostalgic Art

A warm beverage brings me back to my childhood and snow days. I would stand in front of the TV waiting to see if my school district had canceled classes for the day. Once I saw the notice, I would go into the kitchen and grab my favorite mug and make a warm drink. While there’s no snow in LA, when the temperatures drop my go-to vice is a hot drink.

15. Translucent Raincoat | Levi’s

I mentioned how I had an issue finding the ideal winter coat. I had the same dilemma when it came to finding a proper raincoat. After multiple returns, I found one I love and that will also keep me dry.

16. Gourmet Hot Chocolate | Mariebelle

The days of Swiss Miss are long gone. I’ve upgraded to decadent hot cocoa. I love Mariebelle and this mixture blends rich hazelnuts with chocolate for a thick and smooth taste. Next time I prepare a cup, I plan on adding Squish Marshmallows. After trying them at Bryant Park when I was in NYC, I feel that no hot chocolate is complete with adding a Rocky Road marshmallow.

17. A Cardigan | UGG

When it’s cold and damp outside, and I’m watching TV, reading or blogging—I like to have a comfy sweater close by.

18. Flashlight | Lux Pro

Just in case the power goes out I keep a flashlight and batteries in my closet.  

19. A History of Graphic Design for Rainy Days | Studio 3

When it rains in L.A the Internet often goes out. For that reason I like to have plenty of things on hand to keep me entertained. This book is about graphic design and covers its history from 1776 to the digital revolution of the 1990s. It provides plenty of fascinating facts, colorful graphics, and activities along the way.

20. Umbrella | Kate Spade

There’s something exciting about purchasing rain gear. Honestly, I have as much enjoyment picking out the ideal rain accessories as I do buying a new purse, or a piece of jewelry. I love everything about this Kate Spade (RIP) umbrella; from the transparency, to the saying “love is in the air.”

things to do on a rainy day

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Kristie Woszczyna

My life consists of writing, shopping, music, spending time with my boyfriend, working out, traveling and macarons from Bottega Louie. [email protected].

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