The blue skies, the translucent ocean, and the swaying palm trees of the Caribbean! Is there any imagery better? I have to say, this is a place I go to in my mind when I need a break from life - my happy place, so to speak.
When should you visit the Caribbean? While technically there is no time that is off limits, it's worth mentioning that hurricane season does run from June to November, which makes the opposite months the most popular. Oh, and they happen to be the hottest as well!
If you're lucky enough to be venturing to these islands of peace and serenity, you're going to need to know what to pack to look the part, to style up your photos, and to stay cool in those high temps. Whether you're venturing off on a cruise, island hopping, or simply enjoying a castaway vibe on one particular island, we'll have you dressed and ready to go - island style...
1. Let's Get Touristy
You're on vacation, and that makes you a tourist. Yes, I hate that word too, but it's the truth, so why not embrace it and dress the part? Tourist chic is all about bright colors, prints, and enjoying styles that you probably couldn't get away with back home. This Amir floral playsuit is divine and looks fantastic when paired with a hat to keep you cool. I'm loving this funky Sensi Studio Panama hat, and sunglasses are, of course, a must - it is the Caribbean after all darling!
Photo Credit: Cheetah Is The New Black
@AliciaMLund
1. AMIR Floral Playsuit 2. SENSI STUDIO Panama Hat 3. DIFF CRUZ Aviator Sunglasses 4. GORJANA Pendant Necklace 5. MEL BOTERI Tan Suede Leather Fringe 'Taylea' Handbag 6. ATP ATELIEReather Slides 7. MARIA BLACK Rings
2. Pool Side Chic
Maintaining your tan (or in my case, getting a tan in the first place), doesn't mean you need to drop your fashionista status. It's quite the opposite, in fact!
Keep those potential strap marks at bay with this gorgeous Solace London strapless top, which covers just the right amount of skin and throw on a funky and brightly colored sarong skirt to complete your look. This Dolce & Gabbana printed pareo is the perfect combination for bold summer style. And a red lip is always a good idea!
Photo Credit: Fashion And Frills
1. DOLCE & GABBANA Printed Pareo 2. SOLACE LONDON Strapless Top 3. DIOR Cat Eye Sunglasses 4. MEL BOTERI Marigold Yellow Stuart Carryall Tote 5. GIVENCHY Bracelet 6. GIVENCHY Earrings 7. ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS Leather Sandals
3. Resort Ready
From the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic, to the city vibes of Kingston, Jamaica and everything in-between, there is so much to see and do in the Caribbean. Wandering around your island of choice is the ideal time for some fantastic photo opps, but you need to stay cool as well!
This gorgeous white dress is the perfect travel piece. It will not only enhance your freshly tanned skin, but it is also floaty enough to ensure you feel comfortable on the go. Pair it with the obligatory wide-rimmed hat and sunglasses to maintain your ultra-glam status.
Photo Credit Kerrently
@Kerrently
1. RACHEL ZOE Off-the-shoulder Mini Dress 2. MAISON MICHEL Straw Sunhat 3. TOM FORD Cat Eye Sunglasses 4. MVMT Bracelet Watch 5. MEL BOTERI Multicolor Raffia And Red Leather Abbey Clutch 6. LULU DK Charm Necklace 7. OSCAR DE LA RENTA Wrap Bracelet 8. TOD'S Fringed Suede Sandals
4. Festival Style
The bright prints and naturally carefree vibe of festival fashion make it the perfect look to pack for your Caribbean getaway. When on the beach, long length culottes will keep you cool and stylish at the same time. A bralette top will have your tan working, but will have you go from beach-to-city with ease!
Photo Credit: Style Charade
@JenniferLake
1. MARA HOFFMAN Printed Bandeau Bikini 2. MARA HOFFMAN Printed Culottes 3. TED BAKER Cat Eye Sunglasses 4. PANACEA Pompom Earrings 5. EUGENIA KIM Pompom-embellished Straw Hat 6. MEL BOTERI Multicolor Raffia And Denim Leather Abbey Clutch
Will you be cruising through the Caribbean this summer? Let us know where you are off to in the comments below, and we'd love to see your island style. Tag #melboteri #mbstyleguide in your photos and we'll be sure to share.
Next week's summer travel destination will satisfy those with a discerning palette for fine wine. See you there!!