When you hear “Caribbean style” you might think of sandals, beach hats, and maxi dresses. But luxury fashion has a long history of drawing inspiration and borrowing techniques from the region and its diaspora.
Take, for example, small independent brands channeling the flags and slang of their home countries or established fashion designers that make sartorial springboards of their childhood memories, like legendary designers Oscar de la Renta and Isabel Toledo, who often cite their Caribbean home countries as reference.
This Caribbean American Heritage Month, we rounded up some of our favorite Caribbean-owned brands and designers to celebrate their impact in the fashion space. From CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winners to footwear brands reimagining espadrille sandals and metalwork, here are 24 labels you’ll want to know about.
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This Puerto Rican brand’s sole mission is to elevate the island’s culture through clothing, releasing limited-edition items each season. From T-shirts and hats to socks and swim trunks, the brand finds a way to connect people to Puerto Rican culture with its use of symbols and slang terms that are uniquely Boricua.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, the Jamaican-Chinese handbag designer creates trend-forward pieces that somehow feel like classics. Launched in 2015, the brand’s handbag styles are named after some of Blackwood’s closest friends and collaborators.
The Brooklyn-based brand is inspired by the founder Felisha Noel’s Grenadian heritage. The uplifting assortment of casual yet elegant clothing, accessories, and swimwear are a celebration of culture and glamour.
As its name suggests, Jam + Rico is an accessories brand influenced by its founder’s Jamaican and Puerto Rican roots. Finding inspiration in the lush nature of both islands, Brooklyn-raised designer Lissette Scott focuses on translating the colors, shapes, and symbols found in the Caribbean into bright and bold metallic accessories like shell-structured bracelets and sun-shaped earrings.
Knitwear designer Krystal Paniagua is a favorite of Kylie Jenner. The Puerto Rican designer makes sculptural knitwear, including ruched asymmetric tops and uneven skirts, all made by hand in her London studio.
Influencer and beauty blogger Kathleen Lights launched her apparel brand Lights Label last year. The collection of apparel, accessories, and bags, which draw from her love of astrology and many of which feature modern blobby designs (think of trendy novel covers), is influenced by Lights’s Cuban heritage and Miami lifestyle.
Los Tejedores is a brand created by Natalia Ortega Gómez and Ricardo Ariel Toribio. Mostly composed of hats (there’s also an eyebrow-raising “disciplina” fly swatter), the line fuses weaving traditions with a modern aesthetic. The two Dominican designers work closely with artisans in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
Jewelry line Luiny, a standard bearer of bold minimalism, was created by self-taught Puerto Rican designer Luiny Rivera. The brand is now based in New York City, where Rivera designs accessories in intricate shapes and textures inspired by her travels and her time at home.
Dominican-born designer Luz Ortiz creates accessories mixing her Caribbean upbringing and the modern, industrial, and organic shapes that surround her in New York City, where she lives. Each piece is handcrafted in Ortiz’s studio using precious metals and natural stones.
Jamaican-born Matthew Harris moved to the United States as a 16-year-old, eventually becoming a self-taught jewelry designer. His label Mateo New York now carries both jewelry and handbags, and became a 2016 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist.
Puerto Rican jewelry designer Nina Rios is trained in metal smithing, creating accessories with a vintage finish. Launched in 2016, her New York City-based brand is focused on communicating the designer’s experiences living in New York’s urban landscape and the lush Caribbean island she grew up in.
Launched in 2020, Olette is a line of chic basics in solid colors and organic fabrics. Dominican designer Carolyn Compres-Diaz worked on the brand for years before launching during the pandemic with a core collection of items such as high-waisted pants and shorts, as well as off-the-shoulder tops in white, cream, and green hues.
Pantora Bridal is a Brooklyn-based special occasion brand designed by Andrea Pitters, who is of Jamaican descent. The brand specializes in wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses, as well as ready-to-wear garments and marriage merch including nuptial face masks.
Since 2013, Kerby Jean-Raymond’s Pyer Moss has become a mainstay in the fashion world, launching collaborations with Reebok and Brother Vellies. The Haitian-American designer is a master at injecting social commentary into his collections and making headlines with his fearless and impactful truth-telling within the fashion industry.
Edvin Thompson’s Theophilo carries his Jamaican DNA throughout the line. Named after the designer’s middle name, the brand is full of vibrant mesh and leather pieces. The Brooklyn-based designer is also a 2021 CFDA/Fashion Fund winner and a CFDA Emerging Designer of the Year.
Made from cactus fibers, the Santos by Mónica bags are a collection of sustainable vegan leather handbags known for their unexpected shapes and vibrant colors. Designer Mónica Santos hand crafts each order from her studios in New York City and Puerto Rico.
Named after the designer’s grandmother, Xio by Ylette is an online jewelry brand by Cuban influencer Ylette Luis. The brand’s collection is full of zodiac-themed necklaces and ‘90s-inspired accessories.
The brainchild of former Public School co-designer Maxwell Osborne, AnOnlyChild is a contemporary label that’s rooted in the designer’s Jamaican roots, with a debut collection that featured breezy two-piece sets and silk dresses, as well as monochrome suits and mesh tank tops.
Founded in 2021 by influencer Gabrielle Santana, Santana & Co. is a jewelry brand focused on bringing Puerto Rican heritage to the accessories world, including thick chains, bedazzled hoops, and an azabache necklace.
Launched in 2013, the luxury womenswear brand is designed by founder Sophia Demirtas, who is a Haiti-born, Turkey-based creative and entrepreneur. The line is known for its bold prints and casual dresses that are fit for a day at the beach of a cocktail party.
Lucky for me, as a trend forecaster whose job involves “predicting” trends (and sorting through the sea of options) years in advance, I have a head-start on navigating the waters of swimwear; but, this time around, I had another edge that sharpened my shopping skills for the season. I spent the last two months living and working remotely by the beach in Central America.
From the dynamic coasts of Costa Rica to the laidback energy in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, I observed an array of women from all over the world styling their swimwear. Whether they were ultra-cool surfer girls who aimed for utility with a stylish twist, professional sunbathers soaking up the sun in the tiniest of swim styles with a drink in hand (that’s where you can find me), or fashion insiders finding creative ways to integrate a suit with their everyday looks while strolling the town, watching these trends put into action was the ultimate learning opportunity for narrowing down the best of the best options within the swimwear assortments on the market.
Ahead, I’ve rounded up the top 2022 swimwear trends that feel of-the-moment, comfortable, and have longevity to make them worth your buy –– and will be a winning option for wherever in the world you’re catching rays this summer.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Swimsuits With Subtle Shine
Oftentimes patent metallics can feel a bit much, especially if you’re having a low-key trip in a tiny beach town. This season, opt for fabrics with an understated shimmer through lurex or a sheened finish offer; this textured approach to metallics comes off as playful and unexpected without feeling over-the-top. Lean into the look by opting for gold or silver, or put a twist on the trend by testing out a pastel.
Monday Swimwear St. Barth's One Piece, $, available at Monday Swimwear
Baobab Ola One-Shoulder Bikini Top, $, available at Intermix
Baobab Ola Bikini Bottoms, $, available at Intermix
Swimsuits For All Tie Front Cup Sized Underwire One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at Swimsuits For All
While an over-abundance of straps can leave unwanted tan lines or be too much in the waves, this is actually one of the most stylish and practical trends on the list. My best advice? Choose an option that keeps you, well, “strapped-in” with primary straps for base support, or give the asymmetrical look a try with a thicker single strap that’s surprisingly secure for your favorite beach activity.
Fashion to Figure Karlee One Shoulder Cutout Bikini Top, $, available at Fashion to Figure
Fashion to Figure Karlee Caged Detail Bikini Brief, $, available at Fashion to Figure
Devon Windsor Gianna One Piece, $, available at Revolve
Janthee Berlin Lizza Top, $, available at Janthee Berlin
Janthee Berlin Leila Bottom, $, available at Janthee Berlin
We’re bringing the bedroom to the beach this season with lingerie-inspired swimwear. If that sounds too sexy for your taste, look to whimsical ruffle trims, sweet bows, and bloomer shorts to execute this trend as well as a palette of pastels and crisp whites.
Gigi Hadid x Frankies Bikinis Lucky Waffle Crop Top, $, available at Frankies Bikinis
Gigi Hadid x Frankies Bikinis Anne Waffle High Waist Bikini Bottom, $, available at Frankies Bikinis
Dkoko Harmony One Piece Saltwater, $, available at Dkoko
Revel Rey Ezra Bikini Top, $, available at Bloomingdale's
Same Los Angeles Double Layer Top, $, available at Same Los Angeles
Same Los Angeles Double Layer Bottom, $, available at Same Los Angeles
Return Of The String Bikini
When it comes to swimwear, nothing says classic like a string bikini. This tried-and-true style works for just about every swimsuit-required occasion from surfing to sunbathing. This time around, designers are upgrading the style with hardware details, ruching, and eye-catching prints.
Cult Gaia Liana Bikini Top, $, available at Intermix
Cult Gaia Liana Side Tie Bikini Bottoms, $, available at Intermix
VIX SWIMWEAR Ingrid Triangle Bikini Top, $, available at Revolve
VIX SWIMWEAR Ingrid Bikini Bottom, $, available at Revolve
Okay, now it makes sense why high-cut bottoms à la Baywatch made such a cultural impact: they’re leg-lengthening, ultra-comfortable, and usually a bit higher-waisted than the average bottom –– the ultimate trifecta, no? This style was a clear winner on the beaches I visited in both bikinis and one-pieces.
Cupshe Madyson Ruched Back Tie Plus Size One Piece Swimsuit, $, available at cupshe
Good American Always Fits Good Waist Cheeky, $, available at Good American
This season, there’s been a clear decline in prints as an assortment leader when it comes to swimwear –– and with good reason; it can cause a style to cycle in and out of your closet much quicker than a solid hue. But, fear not, textured fabrics are here to amp up the classic styles. For a more literal approach, terry cloth is a popular choice while seersucker and ribbed fabrications bring a more subtle yet equally interesting spin on an otherwise-simple bikini that will make you want to throw it on again and again all summer long.
Hunza G Seersucker Swimsuit, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Lively The Ruched Plunge Bralette & High Waist Swim Bundle, $, available at Lively
Mango Textured Swimsuit with Crossed Straps, $, available at Mango
Sandshaped Luna Terry Bikini Top Blue, $, available at Sandshaped
Sandshaped Penelope Terry Bikini Briefs Blue, $, available at Sandshaped
Swimming in Sunset Shades
It’s not surprising that the natural beauty of coastal surroundings is the go-to source of inspiration for the swim industry. Mimicking the sunsets, swimwear in rich hues of shades of pigmented pink, electric orange, and golden yellow is another top trend. Blame swimwear’s new obsession with hot pink on the prevalence of the color in summer ready-to-wear collections.
Bike shorts caused quite the stir when they returned to the runway (and our Instagram feeds) a few years back, with fashion acolytes all over the world embracing the polarizing athleisure trend. And, while we weren't quite sure of their longevity, it’s now clear that bike shorts are here to stay.
If you ask us, it all started with the insidious creep of leggings-as-pants. We no longer ask ourselves whether or not the body-con bottoms are a truly viable option to wear outside of the gym; with the right styling, the right attitude, and the right pair, the stretchy, clingy pant now gets a resounding yes. Now that warmer weather is rolling around, we’re turning to our leggings’ cropped cousins, the biker short.
What's the trick to translating the gym-going look to the street? Our advice: grab a pair with some length — it's more fashion-forward and makes navigating your shoe selection so much easier. Leggings and heeled sandals? Most likely no. Bike shorts and heeled sandals? Kind of great. Wear with an oversized blazer, a simple hoodie, or with a pretty white blouse, and you're good to go.
Ahead, shop bike shorts from some of our favorite brands, from a throwback neon pair to an itsy-bitsy teeny-weeny option.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
The Bike Short for Yoga
lululemon Align 6” High-Rise Short with Pockets
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 115 reviews at Lululemon
Cut from the same cloth as lululemon's world-famous, buttery-soft Align fabric, it's no surprise these bike shorts have a fanbase as rabid as their ankle-length counterpart. "I don’t know what to say other than I never want to take these shorts off my body," wrote lululemon reviewer Ester. "They’re sooo flattering and comfortable and stay in place so well!" Even though lululemon is best known for its vast lineup of yoga-related gear, these shorts can handle high-impact activities with flexibility and ease. "Great for higher intensity workouts (I use mine for traditional/functional strength training)," Ester assures. "Did I mention how flattering they are! I'm obsessed."
Lululemon Align™ High-Rise Short with Pockets 6", $, available at Lululemon
Best Ribbed Waistband Bike Short
Vuori Rib Studio Short
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 84 reviews at Vuori
Vuori's site filters reveal that this is currently the brand's most sold bike short to date. We have a few hunches surrounding its top-selling status: It has a comfy high waist an an unexpected ribbed texture, there are no side seams (which means it boasts a smooth, airbrushed handfeel all the way around the thigh), and there is a Goldilocks inseam length of 6". Grab this bike short in black, muted navy, or milky pistachio in sizes XXS to XXL.
Adidas Adicolor Classics High-Waisted Primeblue Short Tights
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 156 reviews (standard) & 4.8 out of 5 stars and 64 reviews (plus) at Adidas
A biker short with Adidas' trademark three stripes running down the sides? You can't get any more classic than that. And, at only $35 a pop, this beloved style remains one of adidas' most hyped styles ever. "Absolutely love these! Love that they are not low rise. Us plus girls need a little extra material in front. Lol. I feel confident when I work out in these!" wrote one reviewer who bought one of the extended 1X-4X sizes. "I love this set — it’s very comfortable and machine washable," wrote another reviewer whose only complaints are that these get a bit lint-y and that they don't come in enough colors.
Adidas Adicolor Classics High-Waisted Primeblue Short Tights (Plus Size), $, available at Adidas
The Best Micro Bike Short
FP Movement Good Karma Running Shorts
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 231 reviews at Free People
By far the best-selling bike short from Free People's FP Movement activewear line is this micro number, available in 24 ogle-worthy colors in sizes XS/S to L/XL. "These actually DO NOT ride up?!" wrote one happily flummoxed reviewer, despite the short's 2.75" inseam. "I'm sure it depends on your body shape [but it's the] first style I can wear under run shorts that keep me in place. LOVE! Lululemon wishes!" they wrote. Other reviewers, ranging from weight lifters to long-distance runners swear by these non-chafing shorts. "They are not my favorite for squats; I've found the crotch moves back and forth with my butt, [but] I do wear these for cardio and classes and for lounging — they are a go-to!" wrote an avid cross-trainer.
FP Movement Good Karma Running Shorts, $, available at Free People
Best Affordable Bike Shorts
X by Gottex Active Biker Shorts
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 65 reviews at Nordstrom Rack
We get it — bike shorts aren't for everyone. If you're one of those people who are slightly sus but still curious about these bodycon shorts, a great way to shimmy into the trend is by grabbing a low-stakes pair for under $20. Nordstrom Rack has a whole stash of these stylish skimmies at freshly-cut price points. The highest-rated pair is awarded to X by Gottex — available in five colorways and/or prints — with one reviewer raving, "Very comfortable and soft [...] my body is more of a pear shape. Feels like butter!!" Another bike-tights fan whose previous pair had grown “old and tattered” from overuse rejoiced: “Hooray for the biker shorts comeback! I'm loving my new [ones]. They fit nicely and are perfect for casual activities now that the weather is warmer.”
X by Gottex Active Biker Shorts, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
The Best Smoothing Bike Short
Skims Fits Everybody Bike Short
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 103 reviews at Skims
This pair of bike shorts from Skims are designed to be comfortable enough to wear all day as a base layer under any look. One reviewer raves that they feel like smooth butter on her skin. "I love these bike shorts and I’m normally not too big of a fan of bike shorts. They are super soft and thin and not compressive or tight at all, but still super flattering. They feel like a high quality pantyhose and I’m here for it." wrote reviewer Kristie.
Skims Fits Everybody Bike Short, $, available at Skims
The Best Organic Cotton Bike Short
PACT Ribbed Bike Short
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 55 reviews at Pact
Most of the bike shorts in this roundup are specifically made for sweaty workouts — but these, from sustainable lifestyle brand Pact, have found their way into the loungewear closets of many reviewers. A super soft, stretchy ribbed texture made from 89% organic cotton? Say no more. These could very well be worn as PJs — that's how comfy the blend is. "I found my bike shorts to be super lightweight and cozy to wear for long days working from home!" wrote reviewer Meg J. "The ribbed cotton material is so soft and comfortable around my waist. As we're transitioning into warmer months, I wanted something that wasn't sweatpants, that I felt like I could wear all day at my desk, and also feel excited to wear if I need to run out for an errand or mid day stroll. These are perfect for all of the above!"
Made from the same compressive, plastic-recycled material as Girlfriend Collective's all-time best-selling legging, these bike shorts — and their thigh-covering 8.5" inseam — are made to hold you in, no matter what kind of activity you're up against. "These are a true high waist and I have a short torso so they come right up to my rib cage," wrote reviewer Emily M. "They do show sweat which doesn’t bother me but if it bothers you, go for a darker color," they added. Luckily for shoppers, there's a variety of color options — currently, six “core” hues and four seasonal shades.
Girlfriend Matcha High-Rise Bike Short, $, available at Girlfriend
Abercrombie & Fitch debuted its new activewear line, YPB, on March 16 and it's already ranking a near-perfect five stars. "Great quality product! I am 5’3, and 6 inch biker shorts [are] too short and 8 inches [are] too long so this one’s perfect. I like that the glute seams in the back sit at the right spot," wrote one reviewer who is particular about the inseam length. If you, too, are looking for a sweet spot in terms of a bike short that neither reveals nor covers too much, this YPB pair is a sure bet.
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 1,166 reviews at Alo Yoga
"My main workout is on a popular bike. I reside in a very hot climate area so these fit all my needs," wrote reviewer Theresa B. "Right length, sweat-wicking, just the right amount of compression and a flattering fit. This is my second pair of these shorts — love that they come in so many color choices," they wrote. While many bike shorts are worn for non-cycling activities, it's reassuring to know that this pair is lauded by actual bikers. High-waisted and falling mid-thigh, these skimmies are offered in a whole array of Easter-y brights in sizes XXS to L.
Alo Yoga High-Waist Biker Short, $, available at Alo Yoga
Best Bike Short with Pockets
Athleta Ultimate Stash Pocket 5" Short
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 927 reviews at Athleta
As our fashion writer Chichi Offor has attested, everyone is sleeping on Athleta activewear as one of the best destinations for solid workout gear. Take, for instance, this popular high-waisted bike short that's made for mid- to high-impact activities and boasts not one, not two, but three (!) pockets. "I love these shorts for working out. I travel with them for quick runs/work outs on vacation. They are easy to pack and take up minimal space," wrote reviewer Christina F. "The pockets are perfect for a phone, keys, credit card which [lets] me be hands-free when I use them."
Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II 5" Short, $, available at Athleta
Best Non-Compressive Bike Short
Outdoor Voices Move Free 6" Short
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 64 reviews at Outdoor Voices
There's a time and place for compressive shorts — but sometimes all you're looking for is an unrestricted style that allows you to move freely. That's the whole concept behind this style, which are stretchy, lightweight, and flexible, made from the brand's peachiest-soft fabric. These bike shorts are a hot seller, especially amongst shoppers with thicker thighs. "LOVE LOVE LOVE! My second skin, my go-to short, my breathable beauty. Have these in multiple colors and will die in these. That’s all!" wrote reviewer Elyse. Another reviewer, Tiffany, lauds the shorts' style factor: "I look like Princess Diana leaving the gym, just give me a Harvard sweatshirt."
Outdoor Voices Move Free 6" Short, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Best Y2K Bike Short
BDG Lola Printed Bike Short
As we all know, Urban Outfitters is the destination for throwback '90s styles — and this obviously includes printed bike shorts that are remincient of what we wore as wee ones. This time, however, bike shorts emblazoned with abstract graphics or daisy motifs are fitted for our adult-sized bodies. We totally see ourselves wearing these springtime shorts with a white button-up and loafers, or even underneath a too-short sun dress as, you know, a safety layer.
