Planning |
When designing this bikini, I took into consideration that many women do not want a bikini top that ties around their neck and I thought about how I could make a much-asked-for "sporty but girlie" top. It helps that I love my job as a swimwear style and fit specialist so I constantly take note of what women need/want. One of the things that makes my Versakini bikini top great is that I can wear it multiple ways and many women want that, too. I designed the back of this bikini so that it can be adjusted for size and can also be worn as a bra-style or racer-back. I made it white because that is one of my favorite pure and glamorous colors for sun kissed skin.
Pattern Making |
Eco-fashion is the way to go. There is often a lot of extra/scrap material wasted from cutting a pattern. That's why I love companies like Maaji and Dana Lou Fit that are careful not to be wasteful when creating fashion. I carefully laid out my patterns to use as little fabric as possible. The scraps can be reused instead of thrown out. I have large enough pieces leftover to make something else and I even made a little garter out of the leftover lace.
Next, I needed to make the base and add details. I faced the fronts of the fabric toward each other, lined it up and pinned it. Now, for my favorite part...sewing on my Brother sewing machine. I usually like to go super fast but it's been a while so, I took my time. Slow and steady wins the race. Once I sewed all the edges together with the strings tucked inside, I was able to turn each piece inside out for a perfect seam/edge. I then hand-sewed the tiny opening closed.
To me, it's all about the little things. That's what can make a simple bikini special and what has made specific bikini brands special to me. For example, my Camila Swimwear bikini has a tiny anchor attached and everyone points it out when I wear it. Companies that do little nice things for girls is definitely noticed and appreciated as well. The entire bikini seen here is made with a shimmery teal thread as a small detail that compliments the solid white fabric. I then added a subtle but beautifully noticeable lace detail for my "sporty but girlie" look. When worn, the lace strings really stand out and it looks gorgeous criss-crossed on the bare skin of a women's back.
One Step at a Time |
Getting photos is a crucial but fun step. I chose the cutest model I know, Foxy! I've learned from starting this blog that success doesn't happen over night and I appreciate all the inspiring, hard-working women out there that have helped to show me that. I love seeing how great Kelsey is at growing the Versakini brand and I get inspired by Dana for creating her fabulous Eve7 Swimwear after surviving breast cancer. Plus, I admire all the generous donations I see going to good causes one bikini sale at a time.
Finished Product |
I chose to redirect myself to start my swimwear blog and acquire my current job which is perfect for me. I'm happy I was able to still look up to myself and other do-gooders. Befriending wonderful, down to earth women like Joy at Bikini Company and Jen with Just Bones make for such a positive and hopeful future. With every new bikini came a positive connection and with every post came an inspirational lesson. I humbly know I never could've or would've made this one without the encouragement, help and support of so many. To be able to feel proud of yourself is an ultimate confidence boost and that is one reason I have no problem strutting around in a bikini. Everyone I've mentioned along with my amazing family and friends are such a meaningful part of my life. It's wonderful what we women can do when we help and encourage each other. As you can see, there is much more to "making a bikini" then one may think. Agree?
What a cute bikini... love this post and thank you for the shout out. You are one inspiring woman! xoxo-DanaLou
ReplyDeleteYay, thank you Dana! I'm so glad you like it! You are an inspiration as well...such a beautiful, thoughtful and driven warrior. Keep up the great work! Your kindness and support is always appreciated. :) Xo!
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