Women-Owned NAVYBLEU Celebrates 5 Years with Immersive Celebration in Watch Hill

When you create a brand based on adoration of all things blue, what better place to celebrate its fifth anniversary than Watch Hill?

“NAVYBLEU started with a dream to feature women’s resort clothing in all shades of blue,” says Erin Hornyak, who started the business to fill the need for herself and others of having myriad wardrobe options in her favorite hue. Most of the NAVYBLEU (NB) summer line features wispy 100 percent cotton frocks with designs block-printed in India. Popular items include cover-ups too stylish just for the beach – and the resurgence of the caftan – relaxed dresses that truly rethink the dated garment. 

The company also showcases other like-minded New England brands with collaborations featuring patterns and goods by Sara Fitz, ChappyWrap, Danika Herrick, Mer Hanson, and Claire Wiley. Many of these women entrepreneurs first connected at BLOOM, the New England Coastal Creative Conference networking event organized by Kim Thomas, of Shorelines Illustrated, held each spring in Newport. This cadre includes photographer Rhody’s own Caitlin Elizabeth James, and frequent Hey Rhody Media Co. contributors Kayla Mandeville and Jackie Ignall, who model for the line.

As NB approached turning five, the brand’s Philadelphia-based publicist Patricia Mae Olson suggested an Instagram-worthy event bringing friends of the brand together in appreciation. “Since Watch Hill is near and dear to my heart, I thought it was the perfect place to celebrate,” says Hornyak. Another BLOOM connection, Sarah Cooper, owner of Margin Street Inn, served as host for the overnight stay. Activities included a morning cruise on Hornyak’s boat, lunch at Red 36 in nearby Mystic, CT, shopping in Watch Hill, a photo shoot at Margin Street Inn, capped with dinner at the Ocean House.

“We have grown significantly over the last few years and can now be found in over 200 boutiques across the US and Caribbean,” says Hornyak. Her motto: Dress like you’re on vacation! There is so much joy in wearing something blue and summery!” Learn more at ShopNavyBleu.com