There has never been a better time to be an Island Girl! You know the type... Sun-kissed skin, a tiny bikini, hair that looks great when salty. She’s probably a great dancer and knows how to sway her hips to the tunes of a steel drum band. She relaxes on a beach, sipping a fruity cocktail without a care in the world. Inexplicably, she’s got nothing else to do other than stare out at the horizon and take occasional dips in the ocean to cool off from the hot sun…. Hang on a SECOND!! Back up… That doesn’t sound at all like me OR any of the island girls that I hang out with! 🤣
So, what is an island girl (to me)?
You love a great sunset. You have a great sense of adventure. You don’t sweat the small stuff (you just sweat). You enjoy the simple things in life. You really don’t like the cold but thrive in the sunshine. You are vibrant. You are the happiest by the water, and you highly value your comfort! The ocean is your happy place. You love meeting new people who also find joy in all of the above. And mostly, you appreciate your community and love to lift the spirits of other island girls.
What is island style?
Island style is all about embracing the carefree and vibrant spirit of the islands that you love. It's a fashion trend that allows you to bring the laid-back, sunny vibes of the beach into your everyday life. Whether you’re actually planning a trip to the beach, or simply want to infuse your wardrobe with a touch of the tropics, embracing island style is the perfect way to add a dose of fun and relaxation to your life.
(my Mum rocking her West Indies Wear on a recent trip to Madrid)
Embracing island style for the beach
When it comes to beach fashion, start by opting for lightweight and breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, which are perfect for keeping cool under the sun. Choose vibrant colors and bold prints inspired by lush tropical landscapes, such as palm leaves, hibiscus flowers, and pineapples. Don't forget to pack a wide-brimmed straw hat and a stylish pair of sunglasses to complete your beach-ready look. And of course, don’t forget your swimsuit!! If you ask me, always opt for comfort over “trends” - I’ll be leaving the itty bitty bikini’s for the kids and rocking my comfortable one-piece under a vibrant cotton coverup.
Embracing island style for staycations
Even if you're not heading to a tropical destination, you can still embrace island style for your staycations. Start by creating a relaxed and breezy atmosphere in your home. Incorporate elements inspired by the beach, such as seashells, tropical plants, and ocean-inspired colors like turquoise and coral. Grab yourself an ocean-scented candle that you can safely burn, which will help set the mood and transport you to a beach paradise, even if you're miles away.
When it comes to your staycation wardrobe, opt for lightweight and comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. Flowy tunics, linen pants, cotton skorts and loose-fitting cotton tops are all great options. Choose fabrics in tropical prints or vibrant colors to add a touch of island flair. From city streets to ocean front, your inner island girl should be allowed to shine wherever you are in this world!
Island style in landlocked locations
Who says island style is only for vacations? You’re probably picking up what I’m saying by now, but living in a landlocked location truly doesn't mean you can't embrace island style. Even if you can't physically be near the beach, here’s a great outfit idea that will instantly transport you to a tropical paradise whilst staying practical enough for everyday wear.
Do you love the breeziness of wearing a skirt, but worry how you will cope with your golfing, boating, getting in and out of the car, or biking about on vacation? You do NOT want to miss out on any kind of fun! Our community of island girls love my Atoll Cotton Beach Skort for both everyday livin' and island adventures. It looks like a skirt, but has a secret pair of fitted shorts underneath... The outer skirt is an A-line fit, and the length finishes just above the knee. is the ultimate garment for adventures and everyday life alike. You can roll it up in your cupboard, shake it out and it is ready to wear. No ironing needed, even though it is pure cotton cool 🙌
Bringing the island vibes wherever you go
No matter where life takes you, you can always bring the island vibes with you. Embrace the colors, prints, and fabrics of island fashion in your everyday outfits, and don't be afraid to let your inner island girl shine. Whether you're at the beach, on a staycation, or simply going about your daily routine, embracing island style is a sure way to add a touch of sunshine and relaxation to your life!!
A note from Island Girl, Lynn...
"So I work 5am till 5am and this summer decided to treat myself. . I’ve never ever brought a patio set in my life and I’ve always wanted a fire pit or something but have never had it so I finally caved a brought myself this set. The two chairs come w/a small side table from Wayfair. I brought two sets. They were on sale. Then I found the propane fire pit from Amazon! So this is my summer fun for me! I love to read, I love to be outside and so I finally after all these years treated myself. Then I topped it off with the palm tree!! I have to share with you… ignore my bucket of water with plant in it. I’m trying to save it. It got a little dry. Anyhow, I am such an island girl missing palm trees in sunny Fla and especially the Caribbean… that I splurged on this “palm tree” in CT!! I have no idea where I am going to put this plant come winter!! I’m thinking of just showing up at my brothers house with it since he has a sunny warm spot at his house in the winter!! 🤫😲😂😂"
So go ahead and let the tropical vibes inspire all your style choices, island girl! Embrace the carefree spirit of the islands and infuse your wardrobe with fun, vibrant, and comfortable pieces. But remember, embracing island style is not just about the clothes you wear – it's about adopting a mindset of relaxation, adventure, and joy. And sharing that with other island girls that truly “get you”. If you have been missing out on all the fun of having an island girl tribe in your life, be sure to CLICK HERE and join us over on Our Island Family Facebook group.
We can’t wait to meet you, island girl!
One love,
We can’t wait to meet you, island girl!
One love,
1 comment
Love this post. Especially once you got to the “true” description of what we Island Girls are rally like!
I can’t stop smiling thinking of all my compadres living their version of island life no matter where in the world they happen to be. Thank you, Kim, for bringing us all together. 🏝️🌊☀️⛱️🩱🐚