Love Island USA has taken the world by storm, and it’s no surprise that the show is having a major impact on our current culture. While there have been many love-centered reality shows in the past, Love Island’s popularity is unmatched. The show’s unique concept of being secluded on an island to find true love has captured the hearts of viewers everywhere. And it’s not just the concept that has people talking – the contestants themselves have played a significant role in the show’s massive impact.
One of the most talked-about moments from the show’s seventh season was the kiss between Olandria Carthen and Nicolas Vansteenberghe. This steamy moment caused a frenzy at Love Island watch parties and had everyone talking. But it’s not just the romantic moments that have stayed with us – there have been plenty of memorable and meme-worthy moments from the show. And one of the most iconic moments that is still on our minds is Amaya Espinal (aka our sensitive gangster) wearing a muumuu in episode 28.
While Amaya’s bubbly personality and witty candor have given us plenty of laughs, her muumuu is far more than just a piece of clothing. In an interview with the Today show, Amaya revealed that she only had a day to prepare for the show before being flown to Fiji. She threw a bunch of clothes in her suitcase, including the muumuu she had picked up during a trip to Portugal. “Bringing that piece back to the villa reminded me of my travels and reminded me of the good days whenever I was having a bad one,” she said. “It was more than a dress for sure – it really made me feel grounded.”
But Amaya’s muumuu holds more than just sentimental value – it also bears cultural significance that is worth noting. The muumuu can be traced back to the early 19th century when Christian missionaries in Hawaii influenced native women to wear the silhouette to promote modesty. The Hawaiian women then adapted a more casual, sleeveless version called the “holokū” for everyday wear, which eventually became known as the muumuu. Today, the muumuu is still a popular choice for vacations, Hawaiian-themed parties, and more. And even celebrities like Kris Jenner, Oprah Winfrey, and Gayle King have been spotted wearing them on their vacations.
Amaya wearing her muumuu on the show is a powerful statement about the need for diversity on reality shows. It also shows that modesty can still be attractive and desirable. During the scene in which she wore it, her partner Bryan Arenales even complimented her look, proving that you don’t always need to show skin to be deemed attractive – especially in the eyes of your romantic partner.
While Amaya’s exact dress may not be available to shop, there are plenty of similar options that exude the same level of style and confidence. Some of our top picks include the Unique Kaftans Floral Print Long Tunic Dress, JaipurCraftandArt Cotton Kaftan, and H&M Oversized Kaftan Dress. These dresses are not only stylish but also embrace the cultural significance of the muumuu.
Amaya’s choice to wear a muumuu on the show is a refreshing change from the typical revealing outfits often seen on reality shows. It’s a reminder that modesty is still attractive and that we need to see more diversity in the media. Amaya’s confidence and style have inspired many, and she continues to be a role model for embracing one’s culture and personal style.
In addition to her fashion choices, Amaya is also making waves in the media industry. She is an assistant shopping editor at Popsugar, based in New York, and has over eight years of experience in the industry. She has also written for publications such as Essence Girls United, Elle, Bustle, and Elite Daily. Amaya’s blog “Eli-Nay” is a platform where she shares her love for fashion, beauty, and Black culture. She also uses her Instagram to inspire her followers with style guides, cultural pieces, and innovative content.
In conclusion, Amaya Espinal’s muumuu has not only made a statement on Love Island USA but has also sparked important conversations about diversity and modesty in the media. Her choice to wear a muumuu on the show has not only showcased her personal style but has also shed light on the cultural significance of the dress. Am
