In celebration of our 30th anniversary, we've compiled a collection of personal stories from our community who have been part of our journey, and who have helped define the spirit of Tommy Bahama. From heartfelt memories to simple reminders to live life like it's one long weekend, we hope these people inspire you as they've inspired us.
One of our favorite stories, shared by Dr. Jeff U. in California, shows the power of island-style to make everyone a little more comfortable in just about any setting.
“As a physician, clinical researcher, and author, I am often asked to speak at medical conferences worldwide. Several years ago, I noticed that all speakers tend to present their lectures wearing coats and ties. Now, in preparation for my talks, my lovely wife, Lisa, picks out the Tommy Bahama shirt she wants me to wear at the lecture podium. I've learned that by wearing a Tommy shirt, people find me easy to approach and they listen more carefully to what I have to say. If I appear to be relaxed, so are they. To my absolute delight, physicians now come up to me after the lecture, not to ask a question about diabetes, but to learn where I got my shirt!”
- Jeff U., MD, CA
Sunny with a chance of Tommy Bahama? Blake finds that the forecast in Missouri may take some wild swings, but it's always a good day to live the island life…even if there's a dusting of snow on the golf course.
“Every day is a new reason to sport Tommy Bahama. Whether I'm strolling across the college campus or prepping for the next round of golf, "Tommy" is the stylish staple in my wardrobe. Midwestern weather knows no boundaries: a Tommy pullover saved me during the annual father/son "Polar Bear Classic" at a local course; likewise, my summer polos help me beat the 100-degree heat. Today...tomorrow...It's Tommy Bahama weather.”
- Blake H., MO
Retirement has a lot of upsides, including more time for hitting the road, chasing the sunshine, and leaving starched shirts in the dust. Lorraine and her husband found a whole new world of travel-ready comfort to carry them through their golden years with plenty of style.
“A few years ago, my husband and I decided to move south for retirement. We both needed to update our wardrobes for a much warmer climate, and my husband was ready to change from serious suits to more casual (yet still classy) attire. We visited the Tommy Bahama stores in our area, and we were hooked! Both of us love the classic, comfortable style of Tommy Bahama clothing, perfect for going out around town and just enjoying life.
It is not easy at our ages to find brands to meet our needs, but Tommy Bahama does just that! I love the soft full-zip sweatshirts, which coordinate so well with the Boracay 10-inch shorts and casual pants and those ever-so-soft tops. I now own ten of your sweatshirts in various colors and patterns. Whether on a road trip or planning a cruise, they're truly are a perfect choice for travel.” - Lorraine K., SC
Living the island life is a state of mind you can carry with you wherever you go, from the cement jungle to the real deal. For Johnny, the journey to island living started with the luxury of silk and a different kind of fandom…
“The Island Life has taken us from boring city dwellers to tropical islanders. When I put on my first silk Hawaiian shirt, which proudly displays my alma mater's logo, I felt pure joy. Now, I can watch my favorite team pull off a touchdown while eating the Chicken Mango Salad at the Tommy Bahama restaurant in Newport Beach, and know I am truly living the island life.”
- Johnny T., CA