Why Are Influencers In The Hamptons? The History Of This Beach Town
This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s summer editorial intern Grier Calagione. Find her on Instagram at @g_fac. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
Wealthy New Yorkers have been flocking to the Hamptons beaches since the 1800s. Every celebrity you follow and love is posting their luxurious summer escape. From Serena Vanderwoodsen to Beyonce, it seems every socialite finds herself having a Hamptons summer. By the mid-20th century, the magic of the long island expressway rolled in. Now, people gawk at the glamor, bask in small town charm and relax on pristine beaches. So how did the small beach town foster a celebrity stomping ground? Why are we seeing influencers in the Hamptons?
The 1800s
The 19th century was the foundation of glamor. A dreamy escape from the hustle of the city, the Hamptons became a destination only the wealthy could afford. A very vibrant social scene began amongst the large estates. Soon it became a place only the largest family names would flock to. The Vanderbilts and Rockefellers became the faces of what we now brand “old money elegance.” Even back then, the celebrities seemed to agree on one thing, a summer destination.
The 1900s
The 1900s brought inspiration, art, and a big highway to the Hamptons. With all the extravagance of Gatsby, the Roaring 20s laid a foundation of opulence. During the century many artists used the Hamptons as an artistic muse outside of the city. Jackson Pollock to John Steinback, many famous works of art came out of the vacation town’s glow. With the Long Island Expressway came accessibility. The time of art and peace brought a hippy vibe into the previously distinct prep.
The 2000s
Gossip Girl presented the Hamptons with sexual allure, they described it as a place to be seen. Jordan Belfort’s life of wealth is a reflection of the modern population escaping to the Hamptons every weekend. However, the Jitney, the bus between Manhattan and the Hamptons, made the destination all the more reachable. Now New Yorkers didn’t even need a car to get the taste of some sun.
The Present
Like most beach destinations, the Hamptons had a major real estate spike during COVID. Now, houses have begun returning to the market. But the Hamptons seem more dazzling than ever before. Michael Rubin’s white party attracts every celebrity under the sun. Icons like Kim Kardashian party with Influencers like the D’Amelio’s and we are provided with endless content. TikTokers flying in on helicopters and content houses galore, the Hamptons have the media abuzz. The old money aesthetic personified by the small beach town continues to allure anyone that can pay the price.
Since the first city kids escaped to the peaceful beaches of the Hamptons, celebrities have always found sanctuary across the Hudson. Now every influencer competes with luxurious vacation content, flexing the space for those left back in the city. They represent a new chapter in the longstanding tradition of celebrity culture and the Hamptons.
What influencers have you seen in the Hamptons? Why are influencers in the Hamptons in your opinion? Let us know in the comments!