4 Best Shopping in Guadeloupe

The line of fashionable resort wear for women and children sold here is designed by French painter Jean Claude Le Gall. Pieces have hand-painted figures like turtles and dolphins on high-quality cotton knits. Branches of this French favorite are located at Bas-du-Fort Marina and on Les Saintes. A gift from this store is considered prestigious back in mainland France.

Across from the market, Dody is the place to go if you want white eyelet lace blouses, skirts, dresses, even bustiers. A single item can cost up to €300. Madras clothing is both traditional and contemporary, and it looks especially cute in children's clothing. A line of colorful, Carnival-inspired, tropical dresses is a knockout. For men, there are Creole suits and cool madras shirts, and there's a line of Bebe Creole. Many styles have reduced prices, and there are special-occasion "costumes"—wedding, communion, and confirmation dresses, all in white eyelet. Those who love designer ensembles based in Guadeloupean tradition can also shop online.

At this shop, which resembles a yacht, you'll find batik creations and clothing in luminescent seashell and blue shades. Ladies love pareus (wraparound fabric for skirts) in the colors of the sea, from pale green to deep turquoise, as well as the jewelry. For both men and ladies, there are authentic Panama hats—tropical fedoras (not inexpensive) in classic white and tropical colors. There are also several lines of women's clothing by French designers (like Nathalie Joubert), tunics, crocheted tops, and tiered long skirts. Many items are quite expensive but cool and lightweight. And here, silkscreen is the real deal.

This boutique is owned by a Frenchwoman with characteristic good taste. Ladies will find French and Italian fashions here—cool, lightweight skirts and dresses, stylish shade hats for protection from the island's strong sun, jewelry, sandals, accessories, and hip clothes for little girls.