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Best Places For Rain Gear In Los Angeles

Contrary to what the rest of the world believes, Los Angeles is not sunny 365 days a year; Oct. 1 through April 15 is officially declared as the city's rainy season. However, this weather pattern does not discourage Angelenos from jumping puddles around the city, going shopping, having lunch or strolling Montana Avenue. Rain gear can be about performance and warmth, but when you're out and about, it is also about fashion. These stores promise that and so much more.

Riding in the fall weather can get damp. Los Angeles cycling apparel boutique, Swrve, thinks simple and functional rain gear makes a huge difference on the road. Whether you are training for the Tour de France or leisurely riding from Santa Monica to Manhattan Beach, Swrve's apparel combines functionality with dash of fresh style. During El Niño, be prepared with the heavyweight Milwaukee Jacket, a combined hoodie and softshell jacket that will keep you dry and warm. The combo of super-soft fleece lining, water and wind-resistant middle layer ,and cycler-friendly amenities will put Swrve on your permanent route through town.

With 23 years of fashion expertise under his belt, it is no wonder Lorenzo Hadar is considered the fashion guru to Hollywood's elite. Not only does H Lorenzo showcase the world's most sought-after designers, but the shop also prides itself on finding virtually unknown craftsmen and bringing them to the attention of its clients. This fall and winter, the must-have Damir Doma coat is a rainy season trifecta. The expertly tailored coat can be worn as a half jacket, a vest or as a long trench coat.

Harley-Davidson motorcycle apparel consistently sets trends, especially on the red-carpet a la British fashion model Daisy Lowe or as the rebellious "other woman" a.k.a. Kristen Stewart. Now's the time to set your own trend: Pair the Harley-Davidson women's Melia boots with a red-carpet dress and make some noise at L.A.'s club scene. A buzz-worthy cocktail conversation piece is that these boots are constructed of rubber mini-lug outsole and Goodyear welt. If you are a more serious biker, don't let the rain deter your ride along PCH — suit up in the men's Canal Street rain suit made of microdenier, waterproof fabric.

The original boat shoes worn by every prep in the 1980s continues to reinvent itself and provide functional, yet stylish non-slip top-siders. Sperry Top-Sider's store in Westfield Century City not only offers its signature boat shoes, but also carries puddle-jumpers perfect for a Los Angeles rainy day. The Women's Pelican Too Rain Boot comes in super-cute colors and prints including sea blue scarf, black and white houndstooth and rose rope Jacquard. For romping around in the garden, the women's Cormorant rubber slip on is a great wet-weather addition to your fall and winter wardrobe. In addition, keep your fresh blow-dry away from rain drops with a bright red Sperry Top-Sider Umbrella.

With an eye for unique jewelry and accessories, The Passionate Collector has been catering to private clients and charity boutiques since 2005. Worth the drive down the coast, shopkeeper Susan Shieldkret never ceases to amaze her customers with her staff picks and eye for exclusive designs. Look chic when running to a lunch meeting in the rain with the Pasotti umbrella with Swarovski crystals in pink, or be the envy on your next trip with the trendsetting Pasotti animal travel umbrella in purple leopard print.

Jennifer Geisman is a freelance writer and faithful beauty junkie living in Los Angeles. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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