Some vacations are chaotic. This one was curated.
Our mother-daughter trip to St. Barths wasn’t just about the view—it was about the vibe. From the sunglasses to the ceviche, every detail mattered (even if it was slightly over the top). But whether you’re jet-setting or just trying to channel some polished poolside energy at home, this guide is your Bougie Beach Blueprint.
The Decor:
More Than Palm Trees Think coral tones mixed with neutrals, raffia textures, and shell accents. Elevate your table with linen napkins, hurricane candles, and textured bowls.
Copy it at home: Shell centerpieces, citronella candles in rattan holders, or coral linen napkins can give your backyard setup that same elevated coastal feel.
The Food:
Ceviche is the Main Character Ceviche is summer in a bowl: bright, light, and easy. Think raw fish or shrimp, mango, avocado, lime, and cilantro. Serve it in chilled bowls with crisp chips or plantains.
The Cocktails:
Sip Like You Know What You’re Doing Curated cocktails with decorative twists. Go for spicy margaritas, palomas, or Aperol spritzes served in elegant glassware with a salted rim.
Pairings: Match your ceviche with a skinny marg and a citrus slice. Bonus points for a chic rattan tray and personalized cocktail napkins.
The Fashion:
Sunglasses on Steroids Oversized sunglasses, linen sets, gold hoops, breezy coverups, and swimsuits you can eat lunch in. Create a separate “beach closet” capsule to simplify the process.
The Playlist:
Curated, Not Random A bougie beach playlist is a mix of mellow pop, beachy jazz, Latin beats, and nostalgic bangers.
The Boat Moment:
Windblown Glam If you can book a boat, do it. Pack a coverup, tie your hair back, and bring a Bluetooth speaker.
The Beach Closet Theory
A separate beach wardrobe saves time and stress. It doesn’t need to be big—just intentional.
The Hair Plan:
Humidity Happens Humidity isn’t a surprise—but frizz doesn’t have to be. Wax magic stick, salt spray, silk scarf, curling iron, and clips are your toolkit.
The Movement:
Sweat, but Make It Cute Beach walks, pilates, tennis skirts. Movement is about feeling good.
The Shopping:
One Statement Piece Per Stop Cover-up, sundress, earrings—buy one item that will remind you of your trip.
Bougie at Home Base: How to Bring the Vibe Home
Light the candle, add an edible flower to your cocktail, toss together a citrusy ceviche, and put on your oversized shades. Your backyard just became a beach club.
Related Reads:
- Staycation Setup Guide
- Luau Party Blog
The Big Takeaway:
You don’t need a boarding pass to host like you’re in St. Barts. Start with a caftan, a killer playlist, and something citrusy in your glass. Then add your own spin.
And when in doubt? Movie star sunglasses fix everything.
Read the Comments +