FASHION
LEX SWIMWEAR THE NEW CHAPTER OF MOMMY-AND-ME FASHION By Devorah Rose
L
EX Swimwear is a rare brand among the plethora of mommy-and-me options. Unlike the rest, LEX stands apart by focusing on mothers and sons. Madelyn Mejia, the owner of LEX Swimwear, is a conscientious designer who is motivated by beautiful fashion as well as sustainability and empowering other women. I caught up with Madelyn and she shared the story behind her vibrant swimwear company and her future goals. Why did you start your label? Mothers and daughters, fathers and sons. We see these couplings in the market often; however, there is a clear lack for moms and their beloved sons. As the mom to my son, Alexander, I was struck by the blatant disparity and always envious of my very dear friend Shannel and the looks she shared with her two daughters. It inspired me to create something for my son and me to share — and with that, LEX was born. What have you learned about being a female entrepreneur? Being a female entrepreneur, I have found that there is a meaningful network of like-minded female founders who will help push and propel your visions. It’s with this network of creatives: photographers, art directors, retail entrepreneurs, designers, and consultants who not only have enriched my label, but also have given me the pleasure of fostering and supporting theirs as well. Take for example Sylvana Ward Durrett of Maisonette, who seeks out what’s new and exciting for children and has taken risks on unknown designers to help launch their brands. Maisonette did this with LEX and, in return, we have a formidable and growing partnership.
What do you believe is unique about your brand? Certainly we have a unique niche as a mother-and-son label. Given the success of our first year, it has only reinforced my belief that this was something so many mothers have been looking for. Regardless of gender, preparing for a holiday and being able to coordinate with our sons, just like mothers with their daughters, is just as joyous. Equally, my son feels proud to coordinate with me. Has your method of working on the brand changed since you started the brand? Absolutely. When LEX began, I had a vision of keeping with the norm and producing three to four seasons annually. Social Life
