FASHION IS A BREEZE
The quest for perfect resort wear is made easy at Island Pursuit
Packing for an island vacation can be a struggle for landlocked residents whose wardrobes don’t readily include beach clothes. Island Pursuit owner Michael Valentino knows this, which is why when one plans a trip to Sanibel, it would be wise to leave room in a suitcase to later fill with items from his store. After all, when it comes to breezy day- to- night dresses or sun- proof tees, Island Pursuit has you covered, literally.
“We carry casual and authentic island- lifestyle brands that can be worn any time of day,” says Valentino. Providing easy access to traditional, timeless and preppy summer fashions was Valentino’s vision when he opened the first Island Pursuit in Martha’s Vineyard in 1983. He continues to supply customers with the same style of quality clothing in all five Island Pursuit stores, including the one he opened on Periwinkle Way in 1997. Popular brands in the store include St. James, a nautically inspired company that pioneered the quintessential navy- and- white stripe pattern in contemporary clothing design; and Vineyard Vines, the American retailer, selling classic shirts and shorts, started by two brothers who, Valentino remembers, would often stroll through his Martha’s Vineyard shop as teenagers.
Valentino recalls off the top of his head the history of companies whose merchandise he carries, making it apparent that he carefully selects each brand. But interesting backstories are not all he looks for when making decisions; Valentino is also passionate about charitable efforts through retail. Island Pursuit carries items like TOMS, a shoe line that donates one pair of shoes per every pair sold to a child in need. Valentino is happy to know that the tens of thousands of shoes, from canvas flats and wedges to sandals and ballet flats, that he’s sold profit more than just his company.
“Customers embrace [ TOMS], and we certainly have as well,” he says. “It is a phenomenal product to be affiliated with.” Oftentimes when retailers expand, it can be difficult to meet the various needs of the clientele, but Valentino is confident his merchandise will ultimately end up in the right hands, or suitcase, for that matter.
Visit Island Pursuit for local and international fashions and accessories, and that all- over, beach- ready style. Island Pursuit, 2075 Periwinkle Way, Suite 42, Sanibel, 239- 472- 4600, islandpursuit.com.