The Caribbean Shopping Guide

Nassau/Paradise Island

Bahama Hand Prints

At this factory/boutique, swaths of batiste and linen are hand-screened with graphic, sherbet-hued images of sea grapes, hibiscus, and conch shells, then sewn into a variety of clothing, placemats, and napkins.
Island Traders Building Annex, Ernest St., Nassau, 242-394-4111, bahamahandprints.com

Products: Lingerie/Loungewear, Women's Clothes, Linens
Type of Store: Boutique

Calypso Carousel

With its circular-shaped interior and proliferation of bright clothing, this boutique has a playful mood inspired by old-fashioned merry-go-rounds. Look for Fighting Eel jersey dresses, Ingwa Melero satin halters, and ombré silk chiffon slipdresses by Brit designer Jenny Packham.
Marina Village, Paradise Island, 242-363-0380

Products: Women's Clothes, Decorative/Lighting, Linens, Outdoor, Gifts/Design
Type of Store: Boutique

Cole's of Nassau

For 50-plus years, this Bahamian chainlet has faithfully outfitted women in preppy-tropical clothing and accessories. Currently within its downtown flagship (the Paradise Island location is more trend-driven; the store in Lyford Cay has a refined air) are sundresses by names like Tibi, Milly, and Tracy Reese, a full rainbow of Jack Rogers's sandals, and tons of floral-print bikinis.
Parliament St., Nassau, 242-322-8393; plus other locations

Products: Lingerie/Loungewear, Swimwear, Women's Clothes, Shoes
Type of Store: Boutique

Colombian

Flat-panel TVs playing R&B videos, decorative carvings of Mayan gods, and giant, emerald-crystal chandeliers give this fine jeweler a trippy feel. Most of Colombian's pieces have some sort of offbeat, aquatic twist, like coral-bit-studded koi pendant necklaces and jellyfish charms with undulating, pavé diamond tentacles.
Marina Village, Paradise Island, 242-363-1351

Products: Jewelry
Type of Store: Fair/Flea Market

The Plait Lady

Ask locals the best place to go for baskets and they'll direct you to this tiny Caribbean-colored spot, set up to look like a seaside shack (there's even a faux porch indoors, complete with rocking chairs). Owner Clare Sands regularly visits the remote Out Islands of the Bahamas in search of new artisans to plait rolls of straw that are sewn into baskets, bags, and trays by additional artists; stop by during the weekend and see weavers demonstrate their craft.
Marina Village, Paradise Island, 242-363-1416

Products: Furniture, Linens, Outdoor, Tabletop
Type of Store: Boutique