Behind the Scenes With Our Founder, Kelsey

We’re going behind the scenes on the Groove & Move collection with Swamis Swim's founder, Kelsey. Inspired by movement, versatility, and effortless coastal living, this line was designed to take you from morning coffee runs to beach days and everything in between. Kelsey shares her inspiration, intention, and the story behind the collection.

What inspired you to create an “active” collection?

I hadn't yet designed a “sports bra style” scoop neck bikini top and wanted to bring a style into my line that you can wear without needing constant adjustment.

Growing up, I was a swimmer and during summers we often wore our workout bikinis from practice, to the beach, and back to practice. I wanted this line to capture that ease with something you can throw on and feel good in all day. The Surf Tank style was inspired by boyfriend-style tanks, shown in the thicker trim around the edges, which are the details I reimagined into a bikini silhouette.

How did you approach this collection differently from previous collections?

I wanted this collection to be all about movement - whether that’s playing volleyball, surfing, or playing games on the beach. The adjustable shoulder straps on the Surf Tank allow you to get a custom fit. The single strap Zuma bottom stays put without the extra frills or ties, making them perfect for wearing under shorts.

What is your favorite colorway from this collection?

Seagrass is definitely my favorite! Green is my favorite color and this classic forest green shade suits so many skin tones.

How do you envision this collection being worn?

Wearing this set to the beach, then throwing on jean shorts to get a spicy marg at sunset. 

If this collection had a vibe or personality how would you describe it?

This collection encapsulates an effortless cool girl or tomboy vibe. She wakes up in the morning, throws on a bikini, and heads out the door to see where the day takes her. She’s answering emails from a coffee shop, squeezing in a workout class, and somehow always ends up at the beach with friends. She makes going with the flow look easy.

How do you balance creating something trendy while also creating styles that will last more than one season?

Luckily bikini styles are more timeless than fast fashion, and if the style makes you feel confident in your body then you'll wear that bikini until it gives out. So for my mom and I, we focus on sourcing premium fabrics to make sure your favorite suits are going to last. We source top performing fabrics from Italy that are UV, chlorine, and oil resistant. These are also the same fabrics you’re seeing top brands use.

What does sustainability mean to you?

All of our packaging has been recycled and recyclable since our start in 2015. We’ve spent time exploring new fabric concepts behind recycled material like biodegradable fabrics and deadstock fabrics (read more about Swami's Swimwear sustainability efforts). We believe sustainability goes beyond fabric, it’s about investing in people and helping communities grow. That’s why found a production team in Bali that operates in an ethical, clean facility that ensures fair wages, safe labor practices, and long-term community support.