The guide to channeling vacation energy—even when you’re staring at a screen, not the sea.
There’s a specific kind of person who walks into a room and immediately lowers everyone’s blood pressure. You know the type—effortless, breezy, sun-kissed without trying, like they just stepped off a boat (but one of those chic boats with a stocked bar and zero stress). Their outfit isn’t screaming for attention—it’s vibing for it.
Let’s be clear: dressing like you’re always 15 minutes from a piña colada isn’t about pretending you’re on vacation. It’s about embodying the energy of one. It’s a sartorial state of mind, and the good news? You can absolutely channel it—even if you’re nowhere near a beach, and your inbox is eating you alive.
So how do you get that island-time glow without quitting your job or booking a flight? Start here:
Loose Silhouettes Are Your Best Friend
Rule number one: nothing should cling, constrict, or require you to suck in. The goal is to look like a gentle breeze could lift you off the ground (gracefully, of course).
Think wide-leg linen pants, flowy midi skirts, oversized button-downs, and kaftan-adjacent dresses that whisper I have no meetings today—even if you do. These shapes aren’t just more breathable—they signal to the world (and to yourself) that you’re not in a rush. That’s the piña colada mindset.
Color Like You Mean It
Vacation energy is not beige. It’s not “quiet luxury.” It’s not trying to blend in.
We’re talking about unapologetic, serotonin-spiking color: oceanic turquoise, guava pink, marigold yellow, lime green. The more your outfit looks like a tropical drink, the better. Bonus points for bold prints, chunky stripes, and unexpected color pairings.
Sunshine Tienda gets this so right. Their collections lean into bright color and happy prints without veering into tacky tourist territory. Their striped rancher hats? Basically the piña colada of accessories: cheerful, strong, and instantly effective.
The Hat Is Non-Negotiable
If your outfit says “vacation,” your hat should say “don’t email me.” The wide-brimmed hat is peak out-of-office energy—and it has range. You can throw it on with a tank and jeans or pair it with a printed maxi dress and pretend you’re boarding a yacht.
Sunshine Tienda’s striped ranchers are a masterclass in this vibe: structured, colorful, and bold enough to make you feel like a better version of yourself the second you put one on. Like eyeliner for your whole outfit.
Accessories That Don’t Try Too Hard (But Kinda Do)
The vacation state of mind loves a statement accessory. It’s the secret weapon of every “I barely tried” outfit. Think: big beaded earrings, woven totes, fringe, shells, stacked bangles. These aren’t pieces you wear to impress someone—they’re what you wear when you’re already having fun.
Add one bold accessory to a basic outfit and suddenly you’re three degrees closer to the Caribbean. It’s the fashion equivalent of putting lime in your water.
Say No to Shoes That Say No to You
Vacation style never limps. Shoes should be flat (or platform, if you must), comfortable, and made for walking to get your second drink. Slides, huaraches, espadrilles, or chunky leather sandals all do the job. If it can’t survive cobblestones, sand, or a sprint through an airport, it’s not on brand.
Bonus: The Breezy Beauty Add-On
Okay, not technically outfit-related, but hear us out: your hair and makeup should follow the same low-effort, high-impact energy. Think glowy skin, gloss instead of lipstick, messy bun instead of top knot, salt spray instead of hairspray. You’re not trying to look polished—you’re trying to look like you fell asleep in a hammock and woke up fabulous.
The Takeaway? Dress for the Mood You Want.
Dressing like you’re always 15 minutes from a piña colada isn’t about fantasy. It’s about pulling your body—and your brain—into a slower, softer, sunnier place. Even if the only thing on your itinerary is finishing a spreadsheet or walking the dog.
Put on the loud dress. Wear the big hat. Pour your coffee into a coconut if you must. The piña colada lifestyle is waiting. And your outfit is the first step.
Need help curating your own “forever five o’clock” wardrobe? Sunshine Tienda’s lineup is basically a shortcut to this entire philosophy—hats, earrings, and all.
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