What Are Your Coastal-Themed Gift Best-Sellers?

Coastal style is a favorite not only for apparel, but also for gifts. Marine themes appeal to tourists looking for vacation souvenirs as well as locals shopping for home accents.

“Any nautical home décor pieces sell really well,” affirmed Megan Wells, manager at Tonya’s Treasures in Jekyll Island, Ga. This year, oyster ceramic pieces have been popular for entertaining and hostess gifts. A line of water resistant beach bags from Scout brand flew off shelves at all three area locations of the 20-year-old shop. Wells pointed out that apart from the beach, tote bags are useful for picnics, boat outings and even grocery runs.

Coastal themed mugs are the top gift at Sunsations in Chincoteague, Va. “They are embossed with our round Chincoteague logo, and people really like that,” said Manager Jay Beaule

Jewelry, always a prime category, is a perennial favorite for gift giving at Funky Closet, also in Chincoteague. Co-Owner Barbara Limmen said people can’t resist colorful bracelets and necklaces, some crafted from cowrie and other sea shells.

And while The Gatehouse, a Southport, N.C., boutique, has a distinctly French vibe that sets it apart from typical beach shops, Owner Meesha nonetheless does a brisk business in totes that

Resort and Beach Apparel (From page 42)

top-selling, boho-inspired line, Peach Love, combines California beach style with what it calls “Southern charm.” To find new vendors with that relaxed, island feel, Store Owner Tonya Brown scours the Atlanta Apparel Market and other trade fairs.

This year has brought a more casual lifestyle for many Americans — and coastal styles are a perfect fit. At Enjewel, a Fort Myers, Fla., boutique, sundresses and jumpsuits are best-sellers for their versatility. “Many of these dresses and onesies that look like dresses function for both work and going out,” explained Manager Amy Bennett . “And I’ve noticed that retro prints have been big this spring.”

For women, Buddy Love is a hit with on-trend styles like maxi dresses, cut out shoulder tops, strappy sundresses and swim tunics. Summery colors like white, pink and aqua and tie-dye t-shirts with slogans like “Good Vibes” are perfect for vacation. Another

Since buying the shop last October, Bennett’s father-in-law, Tim Ferguson, has mostly relied on existing vendors for the styles that customers love. “This will be our first summer with the store,” Bennett noted. “We don’t know yet what will do well this year, but dresses will probably still be popular.” ❖