Whether you’re hopping on a flight to the Bahamas or you’ve managed an invite to Richard Branson’s exclusive Necker Island, you might still be wondering what to wear for your Caribbean vacation. There are as many ways to dress for your Caribbean vacation as there are islands in the sea, but by taking a cue from the celebrities, socialites and models who frequent Barbados, St. Lucia and St. Barth's, it becomes easier to narrow your options down to a reasonably sized suitcase.
Caribbean vacation outfits are influenced by the people and places you’ll find on your holiday. In 2017, this means considering your fellow vacationers and your choice of luxury villa, as well as the local population and beautiful natural surroundings throughout the Caribbean. While every trip and traveler are unique, Caribbean vacation style ideas are universally centered around sun, sand and the pursuit of pleasure.
10am
When you’re on vacation, sleeping in is a blissful right. Waking up to sunshine and the view from your villa might prompt you to throw on a bikini and a colorful printed silk robe while you wait for your morning coffee. Dolce & Gabbana swimsuits, with their high waists, perfectly structured tops and vacation-worthy prints, are the ultimate in Caribbean style.
Seeking out men’s swimwear in slim fits and masculine colors isn’t always as easy task. Dodging mass-market Hawaiian prints is one thing, and finding the right cut is another. Thankfully, Valentino and Etro both reliably produce men's swimwear in bright and whimsical prints, designed with fits that are perfect for lounging in the sun.
Noon
Caribbean style codes dictate no stilettos before 2pm, so it’s advisable to keep it casual by day. Sundresses by golden girl beachwear specialist Lisa Marie Fernandez are ideal for cruising around town between your morning sun session and lunch. If you’re more the active type, take a page from model and ageless beauty Stephanie Seymour and get in some snorkeling time at the beach.
2pm
If you’re heading to St. Barth’s, NYC brunch staple Bagatelle has a newly opened outpost which, like it’s counterpart in the Meatpacking district, is famed for celebrity sightings. Switch out your Kenzo espadrilles for a pair of Aquazzura sandals, and head there in order to see and be seen. When considering the ways to dress for your Caribbean vacation, keep in mind that during the day, sundresses are bound to produce the right effortlessly stylish effect – especially if there’s some salt in your hair.
4pm
If you neglected to consider what to wear for your Caribbean vacation before taking off, or if you simply had no time to pack, you’re in luck. St. Barth’s and the Cayman Islands both have dedicated shopping villages suited to your classic luxury brand needs. In St. Barth's, try popping into Hermès, Chopard or Louis Vuitton for a souvenir scarf that will remind you of your trip long after it’s over.
Luckily for the guys who didn’t intend on a post-lunch shopping trip, men’s espadrilles are your Caribbean Saint Laurent sneaker; they are the perfect walking shoe and will look good anytime, anywhere.
8pm
Dinners out on holiday are known for being long and luxurious affairs. Whether you’re planning on eating with a large group of friends and family or sneaking into a table for two somewhere quiet and candlelit, don’t be shy about wearing your highest stilettos and most eye-catching jewels. Whatever kind of night you’re in for, it’s bound to be a memorable one. So show off your tan in gathered and flowing dresses from Jay Ahr, especially in mini styles, perfect for wherever the night might take you.
Midnight
More often than not, dinner turns into drinks, and drinks turn into dancing. Many of the island’s best loved restaurants become clubs at night. Le Ti St. Barth, one of Leonardo DiCaprio’s rumored favorites, serves up delectable Caribbean-style cocktails and is famed for its full moon parties.
Vacation is our time to get away, have fun and restore a little bit. If you’re still wondering what to wear for your Caribbean vacation, just remember to opt for some colorful pieces, versatile swimwear and sleek but breathable shoes. As the Caribbean islands become ever more popular with actresses, models and socialites, you’re sure to be in fashionable company – and never too far from your favorite Fifth Avenue shops.