The hit reality show “Love Island USA” has taken the world by storm, and it’s no surprise why. With its unique concept of secluded island living and the search for true love, the show has captured the hearts of viewers everywhere. But it’s not just the show’s premise that has made it such a cultural phenomenon – the contestants themselves have also played a significant role in its impact. From Olandria Carthen and Nicolas Vansteenberghe’s infamous kiss to Amaya Espinal’s iconic muumuu, “Love Island USA” has left a lasting impression on current culture.
Amaya Espinal, also known as our “sensitive gangster,” has become a fan favorite with her bubbly personality and witty candor. But it was her choice of clothing that really caught our attention. In episode 28, Espinal wore a muumuu, a loose-fitting Hawaiian dress, and it’s safe to say that it’s still on our minds. In an interview with the Today show, Espinal revealed that she only had a day to prepare for the show before being flown to Fiji. In a rush, she threw a bunch of clothing in her suitcase, including the muumuu she had picked up during a trip to Portugal. Little did she know, this simple piece of clothing would become a symbol of her journey on the show.
“Bringing that piece back to the villa reminded me of my travels and reminded me of the good days whenever I was having a bad one,” Espinal shared. “It was more than a dress for sure – it really made me feel grounded.” This sentiment speaks to the power of clothing and how it can hold sentimental value for us. Espinal’s muumuu not only represented her personal style, but it also served as a reminder of her past experiences and helped her stay connected to her roots while on the show.
But the significance of Espinal’s muumuu goes beyond just personal sentiment. The dress itself has a rich cultural history that is worth noting. The muumuu can be traced back to the early 19th century when Christian missionaries in Hawaii influenced native women to wear the silhouette to promote modesty. Over time, Hawaiian women adapted the dress to be more casual and sleeveless, and it became known as the “holokÅ«.” Eventually, it was renamed the muumuu and became a staple in Western culture, often worn for vacations, Hawaiian-themed parties, and more. Even today, celebrities like Kris Jenner, Oprah Winfrey, and Gayle King have been spotted wearing muumuus on their vacations.
Espinal’s choice to wear a muumuu on “Love Island USA” is a refreshing change from the typical revealing outfits often seen on reality shows. It is a testament to the diversity that we need to see more of on television and a reminder that modesty can still be attractive. During the scene in which she wore it, her partner, Bryan Arenales, even complimented her look, proving that you don’t need to show skin to be considered attractive or desired – especially in the eyes of your romantic partner.
While Espinal’s exact muumuu may not be available to purchase, we have found similar options that exude the same level of style and confidence. The Unique Kaftans Floral Print Long Tunic Dress ($3, originally $10), JaipurCraftandArt Cotton Kaftan ($27, originally $75), and H&M Oversized Kaftan Dress ($75) are all great alternatives to recreate Espinal’s look.
Amaya Espinal’s muumuu has not only become a fashion statement but also a symbol of empowerment and self-expression. It represents the diversity and inclusivity we need to see more of in the media and serves as a reminder that modesty is still attractive. Espinal’s journey on “Love Island USA” may have come to an end, but her impact and influence will continue to be felt for a long time.
