Just like Greater Fort Lauderdale itself, our fashion scene is constantly evolving. From day to night, we move from bathing suits, shorts and T-shirts, and easy-breezy sundresses to sophisticated ensembles made for a memorable night out. Greater Fort Lauderdale is packed with homegrown talent, from designers who’ve made global waves with their fashions to trendy boutique owners who help curate what we wear daily. Whether you’re looking for something to stand out on the beach, something stylish for a boat/yacht excursion, or to make a fashionable entrance on a night out, we’ve got you covered.
Boutiques
Fort Lauderdale resident Marisa Folz originally started her lifestyle boutique The Wander Shop out of a 1963 Airstream trailer. The roving store quickly gained a big local following, and she recently opened a new storefront in up-and-coming downtown Oakland Park. The Instagram-worthy boutique splashed with an adorable mural and floral installation is double the size of her first storefront and showcases women’s clothing like flowy dresses, playsets, rompers, and jumpsuits, and lightweight denim. “Because of our warm climate, I try to focus on styles that aren’t too heavy,” says Folz.
“Expect clothing with a Florida-beachy feel mixed with California-desert vibes.” Folz also sells locally-made jewelry, like ocean-inspired Mermaid & Me, hats, candles, and stationery.
You’ll discover another fashion gem, Briny Boutique, tucked away in a shopping center in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Owned by Alexa Chaviano, the intimate boutique boasts on-trend pieces that will take you from day to night, including maxi and midi-dresses, rompers, and basics like denim, tees, and loungewear. “Fashion in Fort Lauderdale has evolved so much since I first opened my doors,” says Alexa Chaviano, who opened the boutique five years ago. “There was always a beachy and laid-back vibe, but in recent years Fort Lauderdale has become more fashion-forward while still incorporating a relaxed style.”
Another locally-owned spot to score fashionable women’s clothing with prices that won’t break the bank is Etiquette Boutique. With two locations in Fort Lauderdale, including a shop near the Port on 17th Street, these family-owned boutiques are always lined with racks of vacation-worthy dresses, rompers, playsets, swimsuits, coverups, and accessories. Another perk: locals love their loyalty plan, where customers get “Etiquette Bucks'' to spend on their next purchase.
Since bikinis are our daily uniform in Greater Fort Lauderdale, stop in locally favored Montce in artsy Flagler Village. Designer Alexandra Grief started making and selling bikinis out of her small apartment in 2009. They became so popular that she opened her first physical store in 2013. She quickly put Fort Lauderdale on the global map with her swimwear line known for its flawless fit, unique designs, and nostalgic prints, and now Montce is worn by celebs and sold nationwide. Along with swimwear pieces meant for mixing and matching, you’ll find workout wear, coverups, sarongs, and pant cover-ups.
Wanna-be mermaids should also check out another hyper-local lifestyle brand, Jypsea, with a storefront in Fort Lauderdale. Local designer, Stefanie, handcrafts flattering swimsuits and other clothing meant for playing in paradise.
If you fancy a mix of on-trend fashions, vintage, and upcycled pieces, mark your calendar for the Flamingo Flea, a pop-up market that happens every other month and showcases various South Florida makers and artisans. This is the place to snag a custom-painted jean jacket, a vintage sun hat or handbag, a pair of earrings that no one else has, and even cute swag for your dog. You can also meet a budding array of makers at monthly Art Walks in the Flagler Arts District and MASS District.
Shopping Destinations
For those who prefer the traditional shopping experience, peruse The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale, or slip on your comfiest shoes to navigate the maze of 350+ stores and premium outlets at sprawling Sawgrass Mills.
If you like an easy mixture of dining and shopping, stroll Las Olas Boulevard for a range of brand-name stores like Lilly Pulitzer, Southern Tide, South Moon Under and Tommy Bahama, along with locally-owned boutiques such as funky and fashionable Elektrik Boutique, gala-ready Zola Keller and more.
In Hallandale Beach, explore The Villages at Gulfstream Park for luxury specialty boutiques such as Rene Ruiz Collection, Lilly McKay, which is rich with European brands, and Atelier Couture for men and women.
At the burgeoning Dania Pointe in Dania Beach, you’ll find a mix of restaurants and shops, including major fashion hitters like Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters.
FLL Fashion Week
Fashionistas should mark their summer calendars for FLL Fashion Week, which takes place July 22 -24, 2021. Take a deep dive into the fashion world by snagging tickets to runway shows, chats with designers and fashion pros, private atelier visits, and energetic fashion performances around the city.
No matter your style, there’s something for every taste in Greater Fort Lauderdale.
