Meet Nikki Amabile of Ivy Coast

I was 34 when I was diagnosed with melanoma. It was a scary and life-changing moment—but it also opened my eyes to a major gap in the market. I started searching for stylish UPF clothing and quickly realized most of it was geared toward women over 55—and not just in style, but in feel. Most options were polyester- or nylon-based, uncomfortable, and far from fashion-forward. Nothing felt like me. I’m a mother, a wife, and a young woman. I want clothing that fits all versions of myself—stylish, comfortable, and versatile enough to move through real life with ease. That was the spark that lit the fire for Ivy Coast.

But the roots of this brand go deeper.

At 17, I moved to New York City to study fashion at the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising. I knew then that I wanted to create something of my own one day. Fashion always felt like home. What made that dream even more personal was the story of my grandmother—she earned a full scholarship to FIT but was told to go to secretarial school instead. Her talent was real, but the era she lived in told her to play small. That legacy lives with me, and I wanted to do something different.

Ivy Coast is more than a fashion brand. It’s where sun protection meets personal style—where modern femininity isn’t about choosing one identity over another. We can be mothers and founders, caregivers and creators. And we deserve to feel good in our skin, protected from the sun, and dressed in pieces that reflect who we are.

https://www.ivycoastcollection.com

Why did you join TSC Membership?

I’m originally a Northeast girl, but my heart has always had a soft spot for the South—especially when it comes to style, hospitality, and community. As the founder of Ivy Coast, a brand rooted in sun protection and elevated coastal fashion, I’ve found my prints and silhouettes resonate deeply with the Southeast, but tapping into that market from afar has been a challenge. I joined The Southern C because I was craving real connection—something like the magic I’ve found through New England Coastal Creative. That group has introduced me to the most supportive, inspiring women, and I knew I wanted more of that energy in my life and business. I’m excited to learn from this community, understand what the Southern woman really wants, and build lasting relationships along the way. There’s nothing better than women cheering each other on.

What is a favorite small business you like to shop or support?

As a small business owner myself, I have an even deeper appreciation for the heart, hustle, and creativity behind fellow founders. My husband and I have a rule when we travel—always skip the chains and dive into the local culture. We love exploring small towns, walking the main street, and discovering one-of-a-kind boutiques, coffee shops, and makers. Some of our favorite finds have come from these little gems, and I truly believe that’s where the magic is. 

Where do you go to get your inspiration now?

After stepping away from fashion to raise my children, I found myself rediscovering creativity in an unexpected space—the home. I took on renovation projects, managed construction, and found so much joy in the process of making a space feel deeply personal. That’s where I ultimately draw my inspiration from when creating my collections. I believe your home is the most honest reflection of your style—it’s layered, intentional, and full of personality. The woman I design for knows who she is. She’s confident in her choices, unapologetically unique, and her style—whether in fashion or interiors—is a direct expression of that. When creating Ivy Coast’s exclusive prints, I pull inspiration from things like vintage tiles, wallpaper, or color stories that speak to the soul. My goal was to create a collection that feels just like your favorite room: beautiful, effortless, and completely your own. 

What is the best business advice you have ever given or received?

There’s one piece of advice I always come back to: “Always take the meeting.” Even when it feels like the timing is off or the pitch doesn’t fully align, I’ve learned there’s almost always something to be gained—whether it’s a fresh perspective, an unexpected connection, or simply getting more comfortable sharing your story. Running a business means wearing a lot of hats—marketing, operations, press—and while not every meeting leads to a yes, they all add up. The more you practice talking about your brand, your mission, and your values, the more confident and clear you become. And when that dream collaboration or perfect partnership does come along? You’re ready.