Starboard Group and Venus Fashion take to the seas with first-ever physical stores

November 4 2024  |  Retailers

Venus Fashion takes to the seas with Starboard Group

Starboard Group and Venus Fashion are celebrating a groundbreaking strategic partnership as the popular digital-first brand opens its first-ever physical stores at sea.

The new partnership will bring vibrant, resort-ready apparel to cruise ships across Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages, marking Venus’ entry into physical retail and establishing a brand-new distribution channel.

Included in the launch is dynamic retailtainment, bringing to life the intersection of style and vacation vibes with engaging, memorable activations.

The curated selection of island-inspired styles creates the perfect fusion of fashion and fun, and the perfect looks for sun-soaked days, resort living, and vacations. The collaboration is anchored in Venus and Starboard’s shared values of inclusivity and women’s empowerment.

“This partnership unites two leading retail organizations in a shared commitment to inclusivity, style, and an unforgettable guest experience”

Lisa Bauer, Starboard Group President and CEO, said, “We are incredibly excited to join forces with Venus in a way that’s truly unique and has never been done before at sea. This partnership unites two leading retail organizations in a shared commitment to inclusivity, style, and an unforgettable guest experience. We’re really proud to bring Venus’ bold fashion and inclusive spirit to our cruise guests and deeply appreciate the collaboration and trust that has brought this vision to life.”

Aligned in purpose

Widely regarded as a brand that broke the mold, Venus pioneered mix-and-match bikini tops and bottoms, becoming one of the first women’s apparel lines to offer swim separates that allow women to achieve their perfect fit. With a continued commitment to inclusivity, Venus offers vibrant, island-inspired collections that embody the ultimate resort and vacation vibe. Each piece is designed to complement all sizes and ensure every woman feels confident and stylish.

Laura Bollier, CEO at Venus Fashion, commented, “We couldn’t be more excited to launch this incredible partnership with Starboard. Expanding into the world of travel retail is a natural evolution for our brand, and there’s no better way to debut than by bringing our fashion-forward collections to cruisers who are seeking both adventure and style.

“Starboard’s unparalleled expertise in curating memorable retail experiences perfectly complements Venus’ commitment to empowering women with confidence through fashion. Together, we’re offering a shopping experience that blends the excitement of travel with the bold energy of our brand. It’s a perfect match.”

The Venus-at-sea collection is crafted for the cruise lifestyle

Venus-at-sea includes a stylish and fun assortment of women’s apparel, including dresses, rompers, separates, swimwear and cover-ups. The collection is crafted for the cruise lifestyle, giving guests everything they need for a memorable vacation, from poolside brunches to sunset cocktails, each piece transitions from sea to shore.

Each Venus location will also feature decor inspired by tropical beach resorts, with natural materials, bright colors, and lush prints that create an inviting, joyful shopping experience. Events and experiences from pop-up styling sessions to exclusive themed gatherings that celebrate the spirit of self-expression, and the art of resort style are planned.

“This strategic partnership with Starboard brings Venus Fashion’s inclusive brand ethos to life on the world’s most celebrated cruise lines, inviting guests to celebrate every moment of their vacation with confidence and style,” the partners stated.