Tommy Bahama Celebrates 30 Years of “Living the Island Life” with Trending Today

As Tommy Bahama marks its 30th anniversary, Trending Today proudly shines a spotlight on this iconic lifestyle brand that has redefined casual sophistication from 1993 to 2023. The journey of Tommy Bahama—from a laid-back beachwear brand to a comprehensive lifestyle experience—is a tale of innovation, style, and commitment to a unique “island state of mind.” Captured across multiple shoots at their Seattle headquarters, a retail location in Alpharetta, GA, and the Marlin Bar & Restaurant in Naples, FL, Trending Today captures the full essence of Tommy Bahama’s story, airing on Fox Business to millions of viewers eager to “live the island life.”

The story begins at Tommy Bahama’s Seattle headquarters, where Trending Today hosts a candid conversation with CEO Doug Wood. Reflecting on his early days with the brand, Doug offers a unique perspective on how Tommy Bahama evolved from a niche beachwear label to a full-scale lifestyle brand encompassing apparel, restaurants, home decor, and spirits. When asked about the core values guiding the brand, Doug speaks passionately about a culture rooted in relaxation, escapism, and a genuine connection with customers. He reveals how Tommy Bahama’s relationship with parent company Oxford Industries has further elevated its reach and impact, allowing the brand to push boundaries in terms of product diversification and quality.

As Doug explains, Tommy Bahama is not just about products but a state of mind that invites people to embrace an effortlessly stylish, relaxed lifestyle. Looking ahead, Doug hints at Tommy Bahama’s vision for the future—a plan that includes expanding their resorts and continuing to innovate in ways that keep the brand fresh and relevant.

Our journey through the Seattle headquarters continues as we sit down with Bradley O’Brien, Executive Vice President of Design and Product Development. Bradley shares his experience in evolving the Tommy Bahama brand to appeal to a diverse, modern audience. He recounts how he was instrumental in launching Tommy Bahama’s women’s wear line, bringing a balanced blend of island-inspired fashion that appeals to both men and women. Bradley’s passion for design shines as he discusses the meticulous work that goes into creating pieces that are versatile enough to transition from “boardwalk to boardroom.”

Looking toward the next chapter, Bradley gives a sneak peek into upcoming collections that reflect the brand’s ongoing dedication to timeless style, comfort, and quality. For Bradley, Tommy Bahama is not just about clothing but about building an experience that inspires people to embrace relaxation as a lifestyle.

Moving to the mock retail shop at the Seattle HQ, Trending Today talks to Jennifer Spoljaric, who provides insight into Tommy Bahama’s commitment to sustainability. As Jennifer shares, the brand’s focus on using recycled materials in apparel and product packaging is more than a trend; it’s a company-wide mission. Jennifer reveals that sustainability efforts extend to their restaurants and even into their upcoming resort concepts, embodying a holistic approach to environmental responsibility that resonates with today’s eco-conscious consumers. From fabric choices to packaging, Tommy Bahama strives to reduce its footprint, aligning its island-inspired ethos with a commitment to preserving the beauty of our planet.

In Alpharetta, Georgia, Trending Today captures the essence of Tommy Bahama’s transformative relationship with parent company Oxford Industries. Doug Wood and Tom Chubb, CEO of Oxford Industries, discuss how the acquisition allowed both companies to shift from wholesale to a direct-to-consumer model—a significant change that strengthened their brands and solidified their market positions. Tom speaks to Oxford’s philosophy of owning “happy brands” and how Tommy Bahama’s ethos aligns perfectly with their mission of delivering memorable, joyful experiences.

The segment highlights how Oxford’s strategic vision and resources have enabled Tommy Bahama to expand its offerings, from the introduction of the Marlin Bars and restaurants to premium home furnishings and even Tommy Bahama spirits. This partnership, as Tom explains, is built on a shared commitment to innovation, growth, and a dedication to delivering long-term value to customers and stakeholders alike.

Finally, the Trending Today team heads to Naples, Florida, to experience the ultimate in Tommy Bahama hospitality at the Marlin Bar & Restaurant. Here, guests aren’t just patrons—they’re immersed in the “island lifestyle” that Tommy Bahama embodies. The Marlin Bar serves as the perfect venue for a relaxed meal, where tropical cocktails and Tommy Bahama spirits bring the island life to guests’ glasses. Interviews with restaurant staff reveal the philosophy behind the Marlin Bar concept: a seamless blend of good food, refreshing drinks, and an ambiance that makes every day feel like a vacation.

The Naples shoot includes beautiful shots of food and drink preparations, the retail displays, and iconic branding elements that give audiences a virtual taste of the Tommy Bahama experience. From the signature cocktails to the “Tommy Bahama 10”—a lineup of classic fan favorites—this segment brings the taste and feel of the islands to viewers nationwide.

Trending Today celebrates the journey of entrepreneurs, visionaries, and brands that shape our world. With 12 years on the air and three Telly Awards under its belt, this top-rated TV show has become the go-to platform for showcasing the latest in innovation, lifestyle, and industry insights. Hosted by Liz Galloway and Russell Snipes, Trending Today captures the stories behind the brands, revealing the passion, creativity, and dedication that turn ideas into success stories. From Main Street to Wall Street, Trending Today takes viewers on an inspiring journey across diverse industries, featuring companies like Tommy Bahama that epitomize excellence, innovation, and the spirit of “what’s trending.”

Catch the Tommy Bahama segment on Trending Today airing on Fox Business, and immerse yourself in a story that celebrates 30 years of “living the island life.” Whether you’re a fan of the brand or new to the Tommy Bahama experience, this episode promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the legacy and future of one of the world’s most beloved lifestyle brands.

You can also watch their Trending Today segment on the Trending Today YouTube page.