Shop Talk: Island Time

The Saint Louis Galleria is about to get a little more laid-back, with the opening of the new Tommy Bahama store this month. The brand is well known for its casual-luxurious style, so it’s almost too perfect that the grand opening coincides with National Relaxation Day, Aug. 15.

Though some Tommy Bahama stores, known as “islands,” come with a companion restaurant, the Saint Louis Galleria location will be retail only— offering a selection of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories, swimwear, home décor and gift items. Those who know Tommy Bahama from vacations to Florida or Hawaii will find that the merchandise is tailored to fit everyday life in St. Louis—with the resort vibe preserved, but the look more casual Friday-appropriate.

Still, the whole atmosphere—from candles and music to prints and textures— is designed to whisk you out of the shopping mall mentality and into the slow, easy luxury of an island paradise. Even from the service standpoint, shoppers are treated as guests, not customers. “As a lifestyle brand, all Tommy Bahama products are designed to support our island lifestyle and to inspire people to relax,” says Joel Gardner, Senior VP of Retail for Tommy Bahama. Look for the new store on the lower level of the mall near Macy’s and Nordstrom, and be sure to swing by on opening day for National Relaxation Day specials.