Greenville, S.C. — May 2025 — Southern Tide partnered with Swells, the Charleston-based accessories brand founded by designer Wells McConnel, to introduce a limited-edition collection of Italian silk scarves that blend coastal inspiration with refined craftsmanship. The Southern Tide x Swells collaboration debuted in May 2025 and remains available online, offering customers timeless accessories rooted in Southern design.
The partnership brings together two brands connected by a shared appreciation for heritage, artistry, and coastal living. Each scarf in the collection is printed on 100% Italian silk and made in New York, combining luxury materials with thoughtful, place-driven design. Designed in the South and produced in the United States, the collection reflects Southern Tide’s ongoing commitment to elevated essentials with regional character.
“At Southern Tide, we believe the right accessories can elevate any look,” the brand shared in announcing the collaboration. “Our partnership with Swells captures the essence of coastal elegance through handcrafted design and premium fabrication.”
Wells McConnel, founder and designer of Swells, noted the creative inspiration behind the collaboration. “I loved creating these scarves for Southern Tide—they make you feel like you're getting dressed for a coastal getaway, even if you're not on vacation. Bold corals, vibrant turquoise, and soft seafoam shades bring each scarf to life with a palette that feels both creative and calming. I love that our Charleston scarf works as both a literal map and an abstract accessory, while the Palm scarf channels an organized energy that’s playful yet polished. Both styles are easy to wear and full of personality.”
Illustrated Palms Scarf (26" x 26")
The Illustrated Palms scarf draws inspiration from the breezy elegance of the Southern coast. Featuring a hand-drawn motif of palmetto trees, delicate florals, and intricate border details, the design reflects the relaxed sophistication of coastal living. Set against seafoam blue with coral and ivory accents, the scarf evokes sunlit shorelines and warm ocean air.
Printed on 100% Italian silk and made in New York, the 26" x 26" size allows for versatile styling. It can be worn as a neck scarf, tied into hair, wrapped around a handbag strap, or styled as a lightweight accessory for summer events. The scale and fabric make it an easy addition to warm-weather wardrobes.
Aerial Map Scarf (36" x 36")
The Aerial Map Scarf serves as a visual tribute to Charleston’s waterways and surrounding Lowcountry landscape. Rendered in seafoam blue and ivory tones, the scarf features an illustrated map detailing locations including Charleston Harbor, Sullivan’s Island, and nearby coastal inlets.
Measuring 36" x 36", the larger format offers styling flexibility. It can be draped as a shawl, worn as an oversized neck scarf, or wrapped as a scarf top. Printed on Italian silk and crafted in New York, the piece combines detailed cartography with elevated fabrication, offering both a sense of place and refined design.
A Shared Commitment to Coastal Craftsmanship
The Southern Tide x Swells collaboration reflects a continued focus on craftsmanship, regional storytelling, and versatile design. By pairing Italian silk production with Charleston-inspired artwork, the collection highlights the intersection of Southern heritage and modern luxury.
Both scarf designs remain available through Southern Tide’s website, offering customers a lasting piece from a collaboration rooted in coastal inspiration.
