How to Get Ready for Summer on a Tropical Island: Style, Comfort, and Boho Spirit

Summer on a tropical island is a celebration. It’s when the sun shines brightest, the sea breeze mixes with the scent of salt, and your body craves light fabrics, vibrant colors, and clothing that flows like the island rhythm.

1. Fabric is everything: Go natural

One of the biggest mistakes when dressing for tropical weather is wearing fabrics that don’t breathe. Here on the island, I promise you that organic cotton, linen, rayon gauze, and viscose are your best friends.
Pro tip from the island: Linen wrinkles, yes—but that’s part of its boho charm. Embrace the wrinkles as part of that relaxed look we love in the tropics.

2. Flowing dresses: Your summer uniform

Maxi and midi dresses rule island summers. Their ethereal movement, breezy feel, and how easy they are to style make them must-haves.
Look for floral prints, tie-dye, mandalas, or earthy tones. Spaghetti straps, V-necks, and open backs are perfect for staying cool and radiant.
Boho style tip: Pair a printed maxi dress with handmade leather sandals, a shell bracelet, and a wide-brimmed hat. You’ll be ready for an afternoon at the market, the beach, or a cocktail by the sea!

3. Light layers: Yes, even in the heat

It might sound strange, but layering is part of the boho look—even in summer. A gauze kimono, an open blouse over your top, or a lightweight shawl can elevate any outfit.
Plus, they’re perfect for sun protection without overheating. Go for fabrics like plant-based silk or fine cotton and play with sheer textures and embroidery.

4. Colors of the tropical soul

Summer on the island is bursting with color: ocean blue, turquoise, coral, mustard, terracotta, white, and sand. These tones not only pop on sun-kissed skin but also reflect the nature around us.
My favorite combo? A mustard maxi dress with a patchwork kimono and copper accessories. Pure island vibes!

5. Must-have basics

Let’s build your boho summer capsule wardrobe so you have everything you need without overpacking your suitcase or closet:

• 3 dresses (one white, one printed, one solid color)
  
• 2 crop tops (cotton or crochet)
  
• 1 lightweight long-sleeve blouse for cool nights
  
• 1 printed kimono
  
• 2 wide-leg pants or long skirts
  
• 1 flowy pair of shorts
  
• 1 cute swimsuit you can wear as a bodysuit
  
• Flat sandals and espadrilles
  
• A straw hat and retro-style sunglasses
  

6. Accessories: The cherry on top of the boho outfit

We don’t hold back with accessories here. The trick is to balance: if your outfit is simple, add layered necklaces, artisan bracelets, or earrings with stones or shells. If your clothes are already bold, go for more subtle accessories—but ones with personality.

7. Hair and beauty, the natural way

Tropical heat doesn’t play well with elaborate hairstyles. Go natural: beachy waves, loose braids, or carefree top buns.
For care, use sulfate-free products and protect your hair with natural oils like coconut or argan. When it comes to makeup, less is more: a BB cream with SPF, cream highlighter, waterproof mascara, and a nude or coral lip. Ready to glow!
Boutique favorites: Natural highlighters by Diosas Artisan Makeup, and natural sunscreen by All Natural.

8. Your energy wears clothes, too

It’s not just about what you wear—it’s how you wear it. Boho spirit is free, light, grounded, and in tune with the wind’s music. Dress with intention, with Caribbean flavor, with self-love, and the desire to feel good in your skin.
Go barefoot whenever you can, laugh a lot, dance in dresses that move with you, and let the sun kiss you slowly.

9. How to shift your look from day to night

A super practical tip to avoid overpacking: choose versatile pieces. For example:

• Wear a flowy long dress with sandals during the day, and at night, add a leather belt and gold earrings.
  
• A crochet top over your swimsuit works for the beach—but paired with a chiffon skirt and heels, it becomes a dinner date outfit.
  

It’s all in the details.

10. And finally… make it yours

At our boutique, we believe every woman has her own gypsy soul. There are no strict rules. What matters is that you feel like you are true to your essence, comfortable, beautiful, and with that carefree touch that makes us unique.

Coming to the island?

If you’re planning to visit or live here, stop by our little shop inside Centro La Paz, Rincón. We’ll welcome you with a smile and dresses crafted with love so you can shine this summer. Remember: Boho style isn’t just a way of dressing—it’s a way of living. 

With tropical love,
Nina

You can find me on Instagram at @AlmaGitana.GypsySoul and at my physical store located inside Centro La Paz, with seasonal hours.
The boutique occasionally hosts events related to literature and music in collaboration with Puerto Rican artists.
I look forward to seeing you online or at the shop — it would be an honor to dress your gypsy soul in vibrant colors.