Tropical Nostalgia, Reinvented: The World of Tombolo
Origins and Founding
Tombolo was founded in 2018 by childhood friends Christopher Galasso and Michael Sard in New York City. Both former finance professionals, the duo wanted to create resortwear that felt playful and nostalgic but also elevated in quality and storytelling. Inspired by vintage vacationwear, retro athletics, and old-school camp shirts, Tombolo set out to make loungewear and leisure staples that were equal parts humorous and artful.
Ownership and Leadership
Tombolo remains independently owned and operated by its co-founders. Galasso and Sard serve as the creative leads behind the brand’s signature illustrations and narrative-driven collections, often collaborating with artists and cultural icons to shape limited-edition drops.
Aesthetic and Design Language
Tombolo is best known for its whimsical, highly illustrative aesthetic. Each piece tells a story—whether it’s an embroidered coral reef scene on a terry cabana shirt or a nautical motif stitched into a summer-weight romper. The brand leans into saturated pastels, unexpected trims, and textural elements like terry cloth, toweling, and waffle knits. Nostalgia, humor, and craftsmanship collide in designs that feel like elevated souvenirs from the coolest vacation you’ve never taken.
Notable Pieces
- Cabana Shirts – Short-sleeve button-ups made in terry cloth or linen with embroidered or appliquéd artwork (like “Lobster Boil” or “Crabscape”).
- Terry Rompers – Genderless short rompers with patch pockets and contrast piping, often featuring playful seaside or botanical themes.
- Unisuits – Long-sleeve zip-up swimwear made with UPF fabric, designed as a cheeky alternative to rash guards or surf suits.
- Cabana Sets – Matching top-and-short combos in printed terry or cotton, including floral tile prints, wine-and-cheese scenes, and more.
- Collaborations – Tombolo x Playboy, Tombolo x Café Forgot, and limited artist editions featuring embroidery from contemporary creatives.
Famous Fans
- Harry Styles
- Pete Davidson
- Emma Chamberlain
- Dev Hynes (Blood Orange)
- Chloë Sevigny
The Future
Tombolo is steadily growing its cult following through limited runs and storytelling-rich collections. New product categories like knitwear, sleep sets, and accessories continue to expand the brand’s footprint. Expect more art-forward collabs, experiential retail pop-ups, and playful reimaginings of classic resort silhouettes—all while keeping its tongue-in-cheek charm intact.
