Get into summer fashions on the island
Beach wear is a style all its own.
“Fort Myers Beach fashion is a lifestyle choice, you want to be casual with a put-together look,” said Jan Wood, co-owner of Palmettos Apparel. “Whatever you wear from a bathing suit to a formal gown should include a flattering fit and with the right wardrobe, you’ll look fabulous, feel great and walk with confidence no matter what time of day or night.”
Wood and her husband Dick are the owners of the shop in Santini Plaza at 7205 Estero Blvd. Unit 712 on Fort Myers Beach.
Best beachy colors include turquoise, coral, white, and black, Wood said.
“White bottoms are matched with tops having beautifully detailed enhanced sleeves and pants are going to have wider legs,” she said of what’s predicted to be trendy in spring 2019.
Wood stays fashion savvy by traveling to several conventions and shows around the country. She also has more than 50 reps who visit her store.
“Fort Myers Beach fashion is different; we can wear white all year round,” Wood said. “But no matter where you live black is an excellent investment – it’s that ‘go to’ piece of clothing every woman needs in her closet.”
Wood started out as a career banker and a frustrated shopper who yearned for a place where she could shop and find everything under one roof. She and husband Dick bought Palmettos Apparel eight years ago and it has fulfilled her dream by offering everything you need from head to toe.
They carry men’s and women’s fashions and they keep their prices reasonable. Her top five women fashion favorites are Lisette, Lior, Joseph Ribkoff, David Cline, and Habitat. Top five favorites for men are Tori Richards, Southern Tide, Weekender, Hook n Tackle, and Tommy Bahama.
She recommends investing in the better brands because they will last for years.
“I have customers who come in and have had a piece for over eight years,” Wood said. “With Fort Myers Beach fashion, you should spend a little more for clothes that will last, with pieces that are timeless.
“Fort Myers Beach embraces easy care fashion so everything in our store is machine washable and travel savvy where you can take it and wear it from our suitcase,” Wood continued. “Our buyers always search for best fabric and we want you to have fit and fabric with an edge so that you will get that compliments anywhere you go.”
Wood and her staff suggest you examine the way clothes hang on your body and shop for styles that eliminate muffin tops and belly roll, choosing nothing that’s too clingy.
“My staff is amazing,” Wood said. “Sharon, Mo, Pam, and Diane have been with me since day one. They know all our customers. When anyone walks in our door, they know what they like and what looks great on them. It enhances our day to make someone happy.”
Wood reminds shoppers that beach fashion isn’t one size or type fits all. You don’t have to work hard at looking good. Choose pieces that work well with each other.
“Take the time to make sure each piece fits properly, wears beautifully and travels effortlessly,” Wood said. “We are always about fit and fabric and we test new lines before we sell them in our store. We can help you accentuate your positive features and eliminate your body areas that you have less confidence in. The right fashion should elicit a WOW response.
“Active wear is in but, be cautious not to make it every-day wear,” Wood continued. “Selecting the right piece for your body type is essential. As we get older, color is important to flatter our face.”
Don’t forget your hat.
Hats are an important addition for island living, being both flattering and functional. Hats can give your outfit and mood just the right touch.
A good sun hat should also have a wide brim so that it will keep both your face and your neck in shadow. Functionally, the sun is very harsh on facial skin and hats that shade the face help slow down the aging process while adding just the perfect accent for your Fort Myers Beach style.
Palmettos is not only a fashion boutique, but a gathering place. Everyone who walks into the store has a unique story to tell. Locals and visitors come in a few times a week to see each other and do some shopping.
“I really love Fort Myers Beach and appreciate our customers and their loyalty,” Wood said. “They have become part of our family. It’s always old home week here. We always have a very friendly place for all our new and old customers. We are so thankful to our community for supporting us and trusting us for so many years.”
For more information, call 239-463-1515 or visit palmettosapparel.com.