The Fun & Flirty Kaitlan Collins Outfit That You’d Never Catch Her In On CNN

Political fashion has often been a land of blandness in recent years, with broadcast anchors sticking to safe, neutral looks that reflect their professionalism—sometimes to a fault. From the stiff, overly contoured makeup to the bland shoe trends taking over, it can often feel like the fashion choices in the political world are stuck in a cycle of repetition. But every now and then, a breath of fresh air breaks through, and for Kaitlan Collins, CNN’s reliable and calm former White House correspondent, that moment came during her vacation in Mexico.

Collins, known for her poised and steady presence in front of the camera, surprised fans when she posted a photo of herself in a vibrant halter ensemble that was a stark departure from her usual on-air look. The outfit, a two-piece co-ord set in marigold yellow with a knotted bandeau top and a matching skirt, channeled retro poolside glamour with a fresh, modern twist. The swirling retro prints and the relaxed fit of the ensemble made it clear: Collins knows how to let her hair down when the cameras are off.

Kaitlan Collins: Row over CNN reporter's White House ban - BBC News

Fashion With a Conscience

What stood out even more than the outfit itself was Collins’ choice of brand. The set was from Cala de la Cruz, a resortwear label based in Cali, Colombia, known for its vintage-inspired shapes and sustainable practices. The brand, founded by textile artist Carolina Lopez, is committed to creating fashion that’s both stylish and ethically produced, working with small-scale artisans in Colombia. Collins’ decision to wear a piece from this brand signals her awareness of the importance of sustainability in fashion. By choosing a garment that supports both artisans and the environment, she demonstrated that a great style move can also make a positive impact.

A Stunning Pivot

Collins has built her career on maintaining a composed, professional demeanor, whether she’s confronting political figures or reporting on breaking news. So, to see her embrace such a playful, colorful look while on vacation was a delightful surprise. It was a rare moment that highlighted the fun side of her personal style—one that deviates from the neutral tones and structured outfits we usually associate with broadcast journalists. This was no longer the “newsroom armor” but an expression of her personal flair.

And let’s not overlook the accessories. Collins paired the vibrant look with sculptural bangles and round sunglasses, completing her ensemble with the laid-back confidence of someone far from the pressures of her newsroom role. With a refreshing Aperol Spritz in hand and the warm sun of Mexico as her backdrop, Collins looked unbothered and radiant—a far cry from her usual poised, polished persona on CNN.

Kaitlan Collins on vacation in Mexico

The Look That Breaks the Mold

The outfit, originally priced at $445, may be a splurge, but it’s clear that Collins made a fashion statement with a conscious choice. The floral prints seen in her dress align with the hottest summer trend for 2025, making the piece not just stylish, but timely. Floral prints are predicted to dominate the season, and Collins’ marigold beauty is a showstopper that stands out in a sea of understated news anchor looks.

For someone so synonymous with structured, on-air seriousness, this ensemble is a refreshing reminder that personal style can extend beyond the control room without sacrificing professionalism. The look proves that fashion can still be fun and impactful when it’s carefully chosen—and it doesn’t hurt when the brand behind it is making a positive impact in the process.

Final Thoughts

Kaitlan Collins’ stylish vacation look marks a rare but refreshing departure from the typical, conservative fashion seen in the world of political journalism. Her embrace of vibrant colors, retro prints, and sustainable fashion is not just a playful pivot but a reminder that conscious personal style can shine, even when stepping outside the boundaries of the newsroom. With this outfit, Collins not only nailed a timeless look but also proved that she’s as stylish off-camera as she is on.