South Florida Fashion Guide

Over the last decade, South Florida has become a Mecca for fashionistas the world over. Miami is now spoken of in the same sentence as New York, Paris, and Milan, yet the region has a style all its own. Several, in fact: from Miami to Palm Beach, you can find looks as varied as the people themselves.

And while being a fashion capital often means rapidly changing trends, there are a few constants, due in equal parts to the hot weather, the diverse people, and casual lifestyle.

Florida Casual

A catch-all phrase for the low-key style of dress in South Florida, this usually refers to the aversion many Floridians have to the button-down, tie-wearing look of the Northeast. For men, this means no tie, khakis or white linen pants, a loose-fitting but stylish collared shirt, coats and socks optional (especially if it's hot!). It's not uncommon to see people out in T-shirts or Tommy Bahama-style shirts, either. For women, loose-fitting sun dresses or tube tops are acceptable. And for both, sandals and flip-flops are acceptable.

Latino Influence

Due to its large Cuban and South American population, Miami has adopted many of the styles found in those regions. Fashion icons such as Oscar De La Renta and Carolina Herrera thrive in South Florida, and many young Latin-American designers make their mark during Miami Fashion Week. Traditionally, Guayabera shirts are common, as are linen suits, open collars, smart shoes, and bright colors.

Palm Beach Preppy

Among the most conservative of South Florida's styles, the Palm Beach look is as distinctive as it is timeless. Polo shirts, lime and pink pastels, khaki pants and pleated shorts can be seen up and down Worth Avenue. For women, this means shift dresses and summer wear. Lily Pulitzer is the embodiment of the Palm Beach style.

Where to find these styles and trends? Check out our South Florida Shopping Guide.