Girl American: Lindsay McCown

Lindsay is a true California girl: born and raised in rural Missouri, she forged West to strike gold and ended up finding herself along the way. That's why I've chosen her as my first Girl American for 2010. 

Her original blog was titled "Lindsay Needs Coffee", but I disagree. This girl has more energy and optimism than a field of java beans could ever produce. A tireless volunteer for hospice and cancer patients, she imbues her personal style with practicality and ease of movement. She has no time for clothes that slow her down, and that refusal to be inert or restrained is an inspiration.




Name: Lindsay Elaine McCown
Location: Los Angeles, California
Occupation: Buyer for a solar company
Favorite American brand: J. Crew
Favorite American designer: Marc Jacobs can do no wrong.
Favorite places to shop: J. Crew and my brother's closet.


Describe your style in ten words or less. Breezy coastal style meets structure.

Who are your American style inspirations? Farrah Fawcett in the 1970s. Tan, blonde, and soaking up the sun. Life was good, and it showed in every part of her appearance.


How do you believe you "capture the American spirit" through what you wear? When I think of the American spirit, I think of freedom and exploration. Sea to shining sea! Growing up in Missouri, I was always encouraged to go outside and get my hands dirty. Clothes can be washed. They gave me freedom to roam, something I do to this day. My clothes allow me to enjoy my surroundings wherever I happen to end up because they merge style with durability. I only wear a handful of items that would make me hesitate to jump in the ocean fully clothed.

What sets American style and sportswear apart from the rest of the world? American style isn't just about a look. It encompasses so many different attitudes. Everyone wants to show what they're about, and they do it brilliantly. Americans wouldn't be satisfied if they were limited. They go all out. Freedom of expression! If I want to wear a unitard down the street, I can. And I'll probably get more than a few high fives.


What is your favorite piece in your closet right now? I can't get enough of the amazing cashmere wrap I found at a thrift store for $25. I don't like to wear a jacket unless I absolutely must, so the wrap is ideal. I even used it to cover up at the beach last week. So versatile! I love thrift stores. God bless the people of Hollywood who get rid of their wraps and Kate Spade handbags after one season.

What is your favorite place in the USA, and how does it translate to your wardrobe? I feel most plugged into the universe when I'm in Laguna Beach, Orange County. I head south immediately if I've had a challenging day at work. It's a great reason to always keep bikini bottoms in the trunk of my car! I usually wear a J. Crew artist tee so I can pair it with swimsuit bottoms to create my Winter Bikini. It's a five-minute transition from office to ocean. When I arrive I usually have a quiet cove to myself, and it takes me back to my calm state. I like things that are simple and natural, whether it's the beach or my shirt.


How has your life as an Angeleno influenced your perspective of Missouri, specifically in terms of aesthetics? I'm definitely more laid back. It's like night and day. I once heard someone say, "Wherever you go out here, there will always be someone hotter than you in the room, and there will always be someone weirder." That is so true, and it's very freeing. Out here, I feel like I'm off the hook.


What do you miss most about Missouri that cannot be recreated anywhere else, east or west? Springfield, Mo., has the best downtown scene that I have ever experienced. There are so many diverse venues within feet of each other. In many towns I've visited you have to choose one venue and dress appropriately, but in Springfield this is not so. I've started out at a formal dinner in four-inch heels, and then stumbled into Big Whiskey's, a neighborhood bar, and no one said a thing! I don't want to change clothes three times when I'm out. When that pressure is gone, you can be comfortable, and it is much easier to enjoy a night with your friends. 


And I am just going to say it: the men of the Midwest are great. Why didn't I realize this when I lived there? Nearly every guy I've dated while living in California was born and raised in the Midwest. 


Also Springfield is famous for its cashew chicken. It's incredible.

List your local favorites in L.A. For a great late-night, post-bar food fix, look for the nearest Kogi truck and enjoy their delicious tacos. Looking to grab drinks with friends? Keep it casual at Barney's Beanery. I love the location in Pasadena. If you're on the hunt for accessories, hit up Santee Alley in the Fashion District. Chaotic? Yes. But you'll walk away with some great finds. If you're looking to get out of the city for a bit, head south to Newport Beach. Load up at the famous Crab Cooker seafood market and eat seaside by the pier. If you're looking for some inspiration, Saint John's Cathedral is breath-taking.


And in Springfield, Missouri? As soon as the plane touches down in the Show-Me State, I am on a mission to get to Arris Pizza. The crust is incredible. No trip home is complete without a few of my favorite bloody Marys at Parlor 88 on the south side. When I'm downtown I love Big Whiskey's. It's the best place to grab a beer. (Bud Light with three olives, please!) Staxx is the place to go for denim. For a laid-back afternoon, head up to a Saint Louis Cardinals game. It was one of my favorite things to do when I lived in STL. If I find myself needing some quiet time, I love the Japanese garden at Nathanael Greene Park. So serene.