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History of Resort Wear

October 13, 2016
History of Resort Wear

Palm Beach Style

How did the magical place of Palm Beach come to be? Well, it started with a shipwreck. Twenty thousand coconuts washed ashore…the palms lined the island and grew to become the epitome of the resort life. Soon after (think early 1900’s) hotels were built and those seeking sun began their migration south. Fashion caught on quickly and designers began creating collections specific to resort destinations: American Resort Wear is born.

Then in 1959ish

Soon a young 20-something named Lilly Pulitzer hit the Palm Beach scene and added color to everything…with a wink. What is resort wear? The three main elements of Lilly’s Resort are: print, white and stripes.

Maxi Dress

This flowy maxi is perfect for dinners out with friends that turn into nights on the dance floor.

Iconic Stripes

Before Lilly, resort fashion, especially resort wear for women was centered around three colors – Red, White and Navy – in a nautical theme. Stripes were arguably the most popular look of the time and have transcended other trends. Of course, we add a wink to any classic with hand-drawn trims and gold details. A reminder of our past and a nod to the future, Lilly does stripes like no one else… authentically resort, born in Palm Beach with added details to delight a girl who has a twinkle in her eye.

Our Newest Romper
Make heads turn in our newest romper.

It's Always Been Print

The long storied history of Lilly Pulitzer has always included hand painted prints. Our designs are inspired by a monsoon hothouse of paisley and petals. Our print is painted by hand and transforms the organic vibrancy of Palm Beach into brushstrokes and moving color. Can you find the Lilly? It’s hidden in every authentic Lilly Pulitzer print.

White 365

We don’t abide by traditional fashion rules and white is an integral part of our wardrobe 365 days a year. There is something so breezy and tranquil about white layered with more white. From easy white lace dresses to a gorgeous silk top paired with gold jewelry, we love the crisp simplicity of “white dressing”.

 
Castilla Tunic

Sunny days spent at casual poolside parties and beach bars call for a caftan like the Castilla Tunic.

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Lilly Pulitzer

It all started with a juice stand…
When 21-year old Lilly eloped with Peter Pulitzer, they escaped the hustle and bustle of New York City for the sun and sand of Palm Beach

In the shadow of Peter's citrus groves, Lilly opened a juice stand. To disguise the juice stains on her clothing, she had a sleeveless dress made from colorfully-printed cotton.

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