Marianna G Swimwear Launches

INTRODUCING Marianna G - the new swimwear label to covet this spring/summer 2013. Masterminded by Marianna Goulandris - a shipping heiress and granddaughter of UNESCO ambassador Marianna Vardinoyannis - the brand's aesthetic is inspired by the designer's Greek heritage.

"I wanted people to see elements of the landscape, history and the ceramics in my designs," Goulandris told us. "Spending my time by the sea in Greece, swimwear became second nature to me. I recognised a certain vulnerability in women associated with swimwear, and that no matter their age or body type, women still need to feel comfortable when exposed. I felt that I had grown up in an environment where I had seen girls my age, mothers and grandmothers all in swimwear, so I had a good idea of what women look for."

Although Goulandris' parents are both Greek, she was born and raised in London. She studied fashion styling at the Istituto Marangoni and then moved onto the London College of Fashion to specialise in swimwear - where she was able to combine her passion for the beach attire with new technical skills. Marianna G's debut collection is split into four categories - goddess, athletic, brights and ready-to-wear - in order to cater to a broader customer bracket. Pieces come in the form of bikinis, one-pieces and dresses for wearing over swimwear once the sun dies down. The collection is available from Avenue32 and the label's online store.

"I really wanted to create a collection with broad age range and a variety of body shapes in mind, allowing every woman to find a piece that made them feel confident," she said. "The goddess section is exceptionally glamorous with its gold and pearl colour palette. The pieces are versatile and can be worn during the day and by night. Athletic is structured and sleek providing support, while remaining stylish. The brights are flirty and fun, incorporating the high-quality fabrics at entry-level prices."

Goulandris wants her designs to be seen as "the LBD of swimwear". In the future, she hopes to develop her business into a lifestyle label.

"It would allow my customers the opportunity to create their holiday wardrobe from one destination," she said. "My heritage will remain very important in the direction of the brand moving forward."

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ELLA ALEXANDER | FEBRUARY 25, 2013 | Article Link