MAKING A SPLASH

‘Āina Swim

CHANGE IS IN THE WATER

WRITTEN BY: KATELYN REW

Mother nature has truly blessed those of us fortunate enough to call the Northern Rivers home - bestowing our region with a bounty of stunning beaches, waterfalls, rivers, and lakes. With an abundance of incredible surf, scuba, and snorkelling spots up and down the coast, it’s no wonder our swimwear gets such a workout! Pretty pieces may look great, but we need comfort and durability too. So, let us introduce you to four local swimwear labels making a big splash in the industry. Whether catching a wave or simply lounging in the sun, these brands tick all the boxes when it comes to sustainability, durability, comfortability, and style.

‘ĀinaSwim

Inspired by long afternoons and carefree weekends - the foundation of a relaxed summer lifestyle - each piece from ‘ĀinaSwim is flattering, luxuriously soft and ethically made. With designs to suit all body shapes, the aim is to empower women with bold mix-and-match colour palettes worn as a set or separated to create a new look. Speaking of a new look, the latest collection, ‘Palm Springs’ is made from recycled plastic water bottles and has a beautiful tropical custom-designed print. It feels ultra-soft and looks incredible. With lush double fabrics, you know that no matter the water adventure you find yourself on, you’re always going to feel comfortable and look your best. Browse the entire range of ‘ĀinaSwim online or follow them on their socials, as they’ll be frequenting local markets all summer long.

ainaswim.com

Charlie Mae

Charlie Mae

Charlie Mae’s classic designs take us back to relaxed summer days spent in nothing but string bikinis, icy poles melting in the sun and sand crunching under our feet. We love the soft earthy tones, unique textured fabrics, and versatility of each piece. Designer Beth created the brand with a desire to instil meaning and purpose back into the things people wear. She wanted her designs to accentuate beauty, confidence and health in adventurous women who have a love for the outdoors. A refreshing concept that teams well with Charlie Mae’s great passion for giving back and making a positive impact. As animal lovers and advocates, a portion of Charlie Mae’s profits are also donated to Balinese animal welfare organisations to assist with dogs and cats living on the streets. Thoughtful, beautiful, quality pieces - If we weren’t already obsessed with Charlie Mae, we are now. You can browse their entire range online.

charliemae.com.au

Marvell Lane Hakea

Hakea

Just like its name (an Australian native plant known for its rare beauty and extreme resilience), Hakea swimwear not only looks beautiful - timeless designs in earthen-inspired colour palettes - but is also durable and comfortable without costing the earth. Born out of a gap in the market when it came to practical swimwear to surf in, Hakea’s designs are versatile, sustainable, and long-lasting. Constructed from Econyl, a material made entirely from regenerated ghost fishing nets, discarded ocean plastics and fabric mill scraps, each piece of swimwear is resilient against chlorine, UPF 50+ and resists breakage up to five times longer than standard fabrics. With a brand ethos that reads as poetry, you know that each piece will indeed be a work of art, so see what all the hype is about and visit the Hakea Showroom in Byron’s Arts & Industry Estate. Apart from glorious swimwear, Hakea also has a Sunup Space that hosts seasonal events, displays, and workshops. Sign up to their mailing list to be kept in the loop.

hakeaswim.com

Marvell Lane

Marvell Lane is a beautiful breath of fresh air for bustier women. Gone are the days of being forced into frumpy, unfashionable swimwear; finally, a brand is here creating comfortable and fashionable pieces for those sporting larger breasts. Enjoy added support and comfort without compromising on style. Say hello to thin straps, quality fabrics, divine colourways and stunning prints that celebrate curves - with built-in underwire and tops that come in 30 different cup sizes. Take the online free Fit Quiz, have an e-Fitting, or wander into the Byron Bay showroom for a personalised fitting to ensure you are expertly sized according to your unique body shape. If all this isn’t impressive enough, designs are super flattering and produced ethically with sustainable materials. They’ve even ditched the plastic packaging, and all their mailers are recyclable. So, this is a call out to all our busty friends who want to feel confident, sexy, and supported this summer, do yourself a favour and book a fitting. You will feel the difference a well-fitted swimsuit makes to your confidence and your time in the water. Sizes range from 8D - 16H.

marvell-lane.com