Tuesday Style Fashion (TSF) heads to Island Magnolia at Round Hill Hotel and Villas for this week’s spotlight on retailers. Under the spotlight today are the Rousseau sisters, Suzanne and Michelle, co-principals of Island Magnolia.

A little bit about them…

We grew up in an entrepreneurial home where beauty, quality, and a strong West Indian identity were part of everyday life. With a mother who is an interior designer and a father who worked in hospitality and development, we developed an early love for travel, beautiful spaces, well-made things, and the details that elevate an experience. Fashion, for us, has always been part of that same conversation — it’s all about craftsmanship, expression, and sense of place.

As Jamaican sisters and business partners, we’re drawn to clothing, design, and experiences that feel considered but elevated. We love pieces with narrative and intention — things that celebrate femininity, glamour, and individuality. Everything we do, whether in fashion or hospitality, is guided by a deep appreciation for culture, travel, and the refined yet relaxed elegance of a Caribbean lifestyle.

Their solid retail background…

We opened our first boutique Ciao Bella in 1994, so we started in fashion and retail 32 years ago. We were the agents for La Perla swim and resort wear. We complemented La Perla with younger fashion-forward lines from New York, like Kate Spade, BCBG, Todd Oldham, and Cynthia Rowley. Prior to that we both worked with our mother, Beverly Rousseau, at her iconic designer showroom and retail space, Decorator’s Corner. We stepped away from retail to focus on other interests in the hospitality and culinary space and came back to it in 2020, opening Island Magnolia at Harmony Hall. This truly feels like a full-circle moment for us — we can’t believe it’s been over three decades since we started, which is a bit surreal!

What has kept them in the industry?

What has always kept us in the industry is a genuine love of beauty and style in all its forms. We’ve always been drawn to creating spaces where shopping feels like an experience — relaxed yet elegant, and unmistakably West Indian in spirit.

Discovering new brands is still a little like a treasure hunt for us, and that sense of curiosity and excitement has never faded. Suzanne, who is the buyer, designer and curator of all our spaces, takes great joy in sharing beautiful clothing and accessories with our clients. We focus on pieces that celebrate glamour and femininity, and that help women feel confident, radiant, and completely themselves.

On revitalising the brand and garnering additional support…

Our collaboration with Round Hill is very new, but it represents an exciting evolution for the brand. We’re thrilled to be bringing exceptional regional designers into one of the Caribbean’s most iconic and esteemed resorts, while contributing to a more elevated and thoughtful guest experience.

Importantly, the boutique is also open to locals, allowing both visitors and residents to discover in a setting that feels inclusive, refined, and distinctly Caribbean. We want the space to be a place where both visitors and residents can connect with beautiful design and support regional talent.

What can customers look forward to from Island Magnolia in 2026?

New brands, new collections from our existing makers, visiting designer pop-ups, Kingston pop-ups… For us, the energy of 2026 is all about innovation and collaboration!

What are a few season must-haves?

A classic white lace cotton piece from Waimari is essential for our summer edit.

St Lucy Botanist Candle in Florist is the perfect way to end a long day.

Palma Canaria’s electric blue silk macramé skirt is a piece that can be styled for day or night and can be worn for seasons to come and then some.

Anything and everything Meiling, chic, simple, classic …our go-to everyday wear

Pascale Théard’s Frida Kahlo’s Pochette/Clutch is an investment piece that will elevate every outfit.

Island Magnolia’s stylish interior (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)

Belle Dress with appliqué drop waist from The Cloth collection available exclusively at Island Magnolia (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)

Palma Canaria, Marcia maxi beach tote with silk rope handles (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)

Michelle (left) and Suzanne Rousseau inside their Island Magnolia boutique at Round Hill. (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)