SHOP TALK July 2021
Cabana Wear with Flair
ShopTalk
THURSDAY JUL 1, 2021 |
BY MADISON MURSCH
SRQ DAILY FRESHLY SQUEEZED CONTENT EVERY MORNING
Sprawled out on the lanai, your feet hang off the edge of the rippling pool as water splashes against tanned skin and a draping cover-up. When you live where tourists vacation, resort-wear is a wardrobe staple—a staple made effortless with Art Guy’s “cabana wear.” Dedicated to completing a sustainable pandemic passion project, owner and designer Valerie Bernhard began sewing 100% cotton towels imported from Turkey, recycling her round, striped towels into beachy ponchos perfect for sunshine-soaked activities. The Siesta Poncho, St. John Poncho, Adult Hooded Poncho and Kimono are now nautical necessities made of fabric that is easy to throw in a tote and go, quick to dry and can be worn on, or off, the shoulder. The pieces have a knotted boho fringe hem and terrazzo tile-inspired button details to cinch the waistline, ensuring it’s breathable but not too boxy.
“I am working on new designs and placing an order for more patterns,” says Bernhard. “I hope to provide cabana wear for those with upcoming cruise, pool or beach plans. And should we need to lock down again, the poncho is a great go-to work uniform.” This sustainable, by-the-water or at-home wardrobe offers elegance paired with Art Guy’s Panama straw hat and a mojito in hand.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ART GUY WORKSHOP, ARTGUYWORKSHOP.COM, @ARTGUYWORKSHOP