Today we’re sharing our love of the quintessential summer attire item, the Panama hat.

Ironically the Panama hat comes from Ecuador, not Panama.

Hand woven by traditional methods from natural fibres of a palm-like plant – the Paja Toquilla.

The Panama hat was worn by construction workers on the Panama Canal to help shade the sun, and it inspired Europe when introduced becoming a fashion icon in itself by the likes of Van Gogh and Monet amongst many others.

Predominately worn in the 19th & 20th century, the Panama hat is known as the Prince of straw hats.

When you think of Panama hats you think of light weight summer suits of linen or silk – and if you’re English or American, you’ll certainly remember ‘the man from Del Monte – he say YES’ advertising campaign, of the mysterous man who travelled the world in his crisp linen suit and Panama hat ensuring quality control of fruit for Del Monte – such a classic.

 They are also associated with seaside and tropical locales from the Cote d’Azur to the Caribbean. The Panama makes the perfect summer hat, light weight, breathable, light coloured and its clever design allows it to return to its original shape after being packed for travel.

Even though the wearing of hats has declined in the last few decades, the Panama has stayed with us as a summer classic and I expect it will continue and rightly so.

The Panama hat lends an air of quiet sophistication and is synonymous with tropical climates, sported by distinguished actors and sportsmen a like.

It takes up to 4 months to weave a true Panama hat but sadly not many are being produced in the original way in Ecuador, and the industry is said to be in such a decline that predictions are only 15-20 years left of production.

Less expensive varieties are now being made in Asia and it seems the Golden age of the true Panama may soon be over.

The very best Panama hats are made in Montecristi, fine hand-woven hats can fetch a price tag of $25,000 – they are works of art.

So fine is the weave the hat looks like it’s made of fabric not straw.

I personally think the Panama hat is a true summer classic and it deserves to stay with us as a symbol of cool island style.

I love the way the Panama hat is celebrated in this interior (above) – it says it all.

Happy Island Styling.

Images: Pinterest, The Original Panama Hat Co. Brent Black

I spotted this vintage pattern last week for what looks like 60′s style mens beachwear and just had to have it.

It’s so cool I’m sure you’ll agree.

Patterns now seem so yesteryear, but I still find them interesting.

I love some of the quirky designs, styles and illustrations, they really are a historical social barometer through 20th century fashion.

Everything looks so stylish and the ladies so glamorous on the front of these pattern packets.

Patterns really took off in the Great Depression allowing ladies to re-create the latest fashions, and you can imagine how thrilling these would have been as they were really the first accessible fashions of the time for many.

I love these 1940′s patterns above, and how wonderful to see some background illustrations.

The various styles of the 20th century are still hugely inspirational and you can see how much beachwear has evolved over the decades.

This ones a rarity, an original pattern from Pucci – how iconic a 60′s look is this?

Hello 50′s stylish beachwear.

Interesting to see the 60′s influence in illustration – skinny figures and child-like appearance.

Oh darling – for a 60′s Bond girl look – you too can create beach chic.

This last pattern above is from the early 70′s.

I do predict that these vintage patterns will soon become scarce, so if you see any I reckon they are well worth the investment as at the moment they are only a couple of dollars, not bad for something that’s so fascinating and cool.

And as an added bonus, old patterns make fantastic up-cycled gift wrap – sweet.

Happy Island Styling.

Images: Zoe Milburn, So Vintage Patterns

Get set to join the Jet Set with these new stunning cosmetic bags exclusive to Escape to Paradise.

They are the perfect size to use as a makeup purse, iPod carry bag, camera bag or even as a mini clutch purse – divine.

 With so many beautiful styles to choose from, you’ll feel like an island kid in a tropical sweet shop.

They measure 20cm (w) x 12cm (h) x 6cm (l) and feature a long pocket and 3 smaller pockets inside, quality zip closure and a soft black and white polka dot lining.

The cosmetic bags come in 14 of their most popular and gorgeous bark cloth fabrics, with 5 of them being the water-resistant laminated style – so super practical.

I LOVE these but you better be quick as they’re a limited edition, ooh I do hope Escape to Paradise will be designing some more as I know they’ll sell out super quick.

Grab yours now at www.escapetoparadise.com.au

Happy Long Weekend Island Styling

Images: Pinterest.com, Escape to Paradise

Today we’re showcasing Escape to Paradise’s beautiful new catalogue with all their delicious tropical island inspired homewares and accessories.

With stunning designs, gorgeous bark cloth material and beautiful quality, Escape to Paradise is truly exquisite.

www.escapetoparadise.com.au

Happy Island Styling.

Today I’m showcasing Hannah Blackmore, a fabulous Sydney photographer – you’ll see some of her work in the latest edition of Adore magazine.

I love her style of photography and I’m sure you will too. Have a good look at the vignettes and interiors, heaps of beautiful and inspirational ideas to create some gorgeous coastal living style.

I love the touch of coral in the tea cup and echoing through to warmer earthen tones of the wood floor, all with the crisp white of the cabinetry and walls.

I love the island style glamour echoing through this scene. The bold black and white, the texture and the tan leather bag are all classic modern coastal colours.

I love the simpleness of this homes interior.

The collection of shells displayed in large glass containers is amazing displayed on mass.

How gorgeously simple yet stunning is the bathroom below. Loving the mother of pearl like mosaic tiles on the splashback and the rustic stool and coastal accessories.

Relaxed, exotic, baliesque – lots of natural textures and materials against fresh whites together with a rustic, naive island quality through the furnishings and accessories.

So simple yet stunning.

I like the way Hannah brings fresh white daylight into her images, giving them lovely early morning feel. Her style perfectly suits coastal style interiors.

Happy Island Styling.

Images: Hannah Blackmore 

Today we have found a fantastic new company via Remodelista called Atea Oceanie.

This boutique shop is based in London’s Knightsbridge and is the enterprise of Laura Meyer, a native New Zealander.

Her love and experience of growing up in the South Pacific has led her to introduce to the world, Artisan pieces crafted across the South Pacific islands. These exotic items have been lovingly made by hand using natural materials and skillful traditional methods mixed with luxury European savior faire.

Meyer spent many summers as a child in Tahiti and it’s these precious memories that have sparked a passion for the South Pacific, and a deep appreciation for the unique crafts and skills the islanders possess.

How fantastic of Laura to help keep the islanders skills alive and promote their gorgeous hand crafted items, because I’m sure not a lot of people will be familiar with Pacific Islander arts and crafts.

‘Atea is the sacred place between the sea and the sky. Draws together the raw sensuality of the South Pacific with the subtle refinement of European luxury.’ How utterly gorgeous a notion.

I have always spoken about the deep magic of the South Pacific, it is one of the last special places on earth because many of the islands are untouched and therefore a real paradise to be hold.

The elegance of the homewares and fashion accessories at Atea Oceania is their evocative essence of an unhurried way of life, that is synonymous with the South Seas and Laura has captured this so elegantly.

I adore Laura’s sensibility, by capturing and elevating the South Pacific through beautiful fashion and homewares and adding that touch of European craftsmanship is genius. Supporting the islanders and bringing this region to the world’s attention has been long overdue.

Her pieces sit happily in an urban environment as well as an exotic holiday destination, their relaxed island elegance enhances and statementises the individualism of each piece.

The hand-woven hats and bags are made in The Cook Islands from Rito, young baby coconut shoots and the baskets are made from Pandanus leaves also in The Cooks.

Pearl lariats made with The Cook Island black pearls and Italian leather sit near hand carved items from New Zealand and neighbouring islands.

Tapa cloths from Fiji, Tonga and Samoa are all traditionally made from the bark of the Mulberry tree and have unique patterns native to each island painted on them.

Each of the Atea Oceanie pieces are unique. Their luxury Artisan qualities speak for themselves as real and individual statement items. They have been designed and made with real skill and passion so are investment pieces as well as fashionable pieces.

For me, the homewares would quite happily sit displayed in any coastal island home as a decorative bohemian/tribal/native element to add real interest and depth to a room. I love the neutral colours, the natural textures and the raw, native elegance they possess in their designs.

The fashion items are true classics, I adore the hats and large satchel bags (see the pic above). These pieces take the boho look a step further and would easily mix with different styles for an eclectic take.

 For more information visit www.ateaoceanie.com

Happy Island Styling.

Images: Christine Hanway 

I’m loving fashion photography depicting breezy coastal island girls in billowing dresses along the seashore, and in fabulous summer colours.

Here’s a selection of images from Pinterest.com, I’m sure you’ve seen them before, but together they really make a striking collection.

This type of fashion photography really shows the dresses to maximum effect and gives the look a natural almost ethereal quality.

The movement through the textiles is amazing giving the image a real reportage feel of that just captured moment, so that the image is in no way static but stunningly arresting to the viewer.

Happy Island Styling.

I adore Indigo, I’ve used it throughout the past year on professional projects and at home.

Here’s just one of my indigo projects, a display home at Birtinya Island, QLD. The Indigo feature wall is balanced because the deep colour is contained with light colours, framing the feature wall and allowing it to give the right amount of ‘pop’ to the master bedroom.

Indigo works beautifully with lots of white and natural light – mid toned woods.

Coastal textures look amazing too against indigo, try it with white coral, large conch shells, starfish etc.

You can also add a touch of emerald green through tropical leaves and you’ve got a sensational look.

It’s so simple to create a little Indigo magic in your home, and the simplest way is with accessories, here’s a few gorgeous picks from our sponsors.

Geometric cushion Island Collections, Kim Seybert dinnerware accessories Moyarta, Sanctuary Coral cushion Escape to Paradise, Blossom Ginger Jar Plumeria Coastal Home, Coral bunting & Tropical clutch Escape to Paradise, Kim Seybert dinnerware accessories Moyarta, Fish napkins Plumeria Coastal Home & Florida cushion Island Collections.

So try a little indigo this season, I absolutely guarantee you’ll love it, it’s the perfect all year round coastal colour to perk up your pad.

Happy Island Styling.

 and I’m more than happy to share one of the latest projects I’ve been involved in with Sekisui House Australia.

The Coolum Residences are located on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland Australia.

Sekisui House have built 3 display homes on Beachside and I was involved with designing and selecting finishes.

The homes have just opened for all to see and I’ll have more photo’s soon for you all to enjoy and be inspired by.

Meantime, here’s a stylish island inspired fashion page from the resorts magazine, as you can see this resort is all about stylish relaxed coastal living.

Happy Island Styling.

Images from Push & The Coolum Residences

Many of you may know of these gorgeous online stores, but do you know the talented girls behind them?

I first got to know Sam of Plumeria Coastal Home over a year ago through our mutal adoration of all things stylishly coastal. Sam is one of those incredible people who are just so bubbly, full of life and with a real passion for coastal living.

Sam and I have been supporting one another behind the scenes with our coastal inspired businesses and it’s just been amazing. I love the fact that Sam will not compromise on the quality of her coastal selections. Her professional integrity is so inspiring, her attention to detail with all her customers is absolute 5 star and you will not find a better quality selection of coastal inspired products at realistic prices anywhere.

Her coastal collections keep on growing, so it’s wonderful when sneek previews come through of what’s next in store and easy to see why magazine editors snap up the new collections for their articles.

Last month Sam and I finally met up on the Gold Coast, Australia and we could have talked all day. I adore so many of her products I have a hard time deciding which one to buy first for my new beach house reno. I think it may just have to be the stylish pineapple lamps for my modern plantation style master bedroom, perfect accompaniments to any stylish bedside.

So I am utterly delighted and honoured to have Plumeria Coastal Home officially on board with Oceania Island Living.

Give a very warm welcome to Sam, pop by her store and have a good look around, you’ll love her products and will be so inspired you’ll start acquiring a few coastal gems for your beautiful coastal inspired homes too.

www.coastalhome.com.au

Sacha and I used to live literally around the corner from one another on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, yet we didn’t know each other then, we were both busy working away on our businesses only to later learn that they were so synergised it was almost a 6 degrees of separation – call it destiny if you like.

Escape to Paradise is an absolutely gorgeous collection of fashion and homewares centred around the most beautiful tropical inspired bark cloth. When I first started Oceania Island Living I could not find anything stylishly tropical for my home, and even as a professional interior designer this was very frustrating indeed! How things have changed in the last 10 years, thank goodness.

Sacha’s designs are so eye catching and unique, yet have such a timeless and stylish quality about them, it’s so easy to fall in love with the whole collection. I adore the Oasis palm tree cushions (of course) and am eyeing up the table runners for my gorgeous new outdoor setting, just in time for some beautiful evening dinners now that the steamy hot weather has cooled a little.

Sacha again is one of those amazingly inspiring people. Always upbeat, always enthusiastic and very supportive. She understands exactly what it’s like starting up a new small business and has been a big supporter of Oceania behind the scenes over the last 2 years.

It’s been fantatsic to watch her business grow, see my industry fall in love with her unique and beautiful products and win so much adoration for her homewares in Australia and now internationally.

You absolutely must see her store, Sacha has branched out into homewares with more of her beautiful fabrics and the new outdoor soft furnishings are just heavenly – you will love them and I guarantee people will ask where you got such lovely homewares from.

www.escapetoparadise.com.au