During winter the thought of being able to don our favorite bikinis and head to the beach gets us through the cooler months. Now that summer is well and truly here it’s time to trade in the skinny jeans and find the perfect bikini for the season. We spoke to the Creative Director of PALM Swimwear, Kat Furey, about her internationally successful brand, her inspirations, and Cara Delevingne wearing PALM Swimwear.
The SS15/16 collection for PALM Swimwear is titled ‘Blue Lagoon’. Were you inspired by the 80s movie flick, and where else do you find your inspiration?
KF: Yes, although we were more inspired by the book and the message it entails. The story explores the way humans interact when removed from the influences of mainstream society and (through)...‘casting away inessentials, we are able to retain the things that are essential’. Through this concept, we have tried to refine and modernize the classic swimsuit for a timeless appeal, thus creating an ‘essentials’ collection that makes the foundation of a summer wardrobe. Mass-produced, disposable fast-fashion today means that clothing is designed to keep up with the latest fads, therefore losing its classic appeal. We want our bikinis to last; not only through timeless design, but by sourcing the finest Italian fabrics that endure longer wear than standard materials. As far as other inspirations go, we travel a lot; therefore it is natural for us to draw ideas from our experiences and interactions with other cultures and societies.
What is your process for designing for PALM swimwear?
KF:Our design process is usually collaborative but most of our ideas are first sketched or brainstormed on paper from a concept or story. The creative direction of PALM has felt very natural as Ben and I have scarily similar ideas. However, when we do have our differences it really pushes us to take the brand to different level than first intended. After designing on paper, we then work on the patterns and prototypes, which is the most exciting part. We love seeing our designs come to life in 3D. It makes all the sleepless nights worth it.
What does you role of Creative Director for PALM Swimwear entail?
KF:Creative Director is really just a title we use to distinguish ourselves. I guess I tend to work on more of the ‘creative’ aspects of the brand, such as designing and brand development. Ben tends to work on the production side of things. In saying this, we are extremely collaborative and work on pretty much everything together.
What are three words you would use to describe the latest collection?
KF: Considered, essential and classic.
What are your top tips for finding the perfect swimwear that suits your body?
KF: I don’t like saying that certain body types should only wear certain bikini cuts and styles. As long as a woman feels good and comfortable in her swimwear then that is all that matters.
If you could spend your summer anywhere in the world, where would you go?
KF: Oh there are far too many places on my summer bucket list to name just one. I am however dying to go to the Bahamas (that seems to have such an abundance of marine life). I am also drawn to the warm Mediterranean weathers and we hope to spend some time in Spain this year. Indonesia is also one of our favourite places. We lived there for a few years and there are still so many less-known islands to explore.
What are your favourite swimwear trends this season?
KF: I love simple cut swimwear (usually in black) with a little extra detail so they look great worn as an undergarment under a sheer top or camisole.
What are your tips for feeling confident in swimwear?
KF: It’s about choosing swimwear that reflects our own personality or mood, and not just what the latest fad is. I love pieces that are simple, yet classically striking which gives you the flexibility to mix and match on different occasions.
Do you prefer the beach or the pool, and why?
KF:The beach! I feel so lucky to have grown up by the sea as I have an obsession for nature and open spaces. Nothing is more refreshing and rewarding for the body and mind than a dip in the cold sea on a hot summer day.
What are your beach essentials?
KF: A wide brimmed hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water. It is so important to keep your face and skin hydrated and protected under the harsh Australian sun.
Cara Delevingne was recently spotted wearing PALM swimwear. If you could see any celebrity wearing PALM, who would it be?
KF: I would love to see Kate Moss in PALM. Also, anyone who does understated, natural and cool well; like Kym Ellery, Bambi Northwood and Lara Worthington.
PALM was founded in 2014, and has already received great success. What are you tips for breaking into the swimwear market?
KF: Australians are spoilt for choice, as there is an abundance of talented swim and resort wear brands. However, this makes an extremely competitive market for designers. The most important advice is to stick to your own design principles and aesthetics, and to identify what it is that makes your brand unique. Also be prepared to work really hard and have a lot of sleepless nights. But if you love what you do, then that should be enough to drive you.
For on-trend, chic swimwear, check out PALM Swimwear latest collection to get you through the summer! To keep up to date with everything PALM be sure to follow their Instagram and Facebook for ultimate summer vibes.
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