Klassikoz is the latest in elegant, Aussie swimwear. The debut collection by a Melbourne-based lawyer-turned-designer is an offering of sleek, flattering cuts in elegant shades, enhanced, of course, with SPF 50+ protection. We chatted the founder with about all things swimwear, and how the brand came to be.
You’re a lawyer, have you always had an interest in fashion?
I’ve never been one to follow the latest fashion trends but, growing up, I enjoyed working out what colours and styles worked best for me. I have always believed that what you wear can have a huge impact on how you feel. I love that an outfit can make you feel confident and powerful.
How long was it before you realised you wanted to pursue a business in fashion?
I have been practising law for over 15 years and it has been, and continues to be, very rewarding. However, towards the latter part of my legal career, a hidden creative side began to surface. I started having recurring dreams about owning a fashion business and I realised the only way those dreams would stop was to listen to my inner self and take action.
Why swimwear?
I grew up in Queensland and I love warm weather and water. Whenever I have an opportunity to go on holidays, I typically seek out warm beach destinations. You certainly won’t find me at the snow! When I decided to launch a fashion label, swimwear was the first thing that came to mind. I did my research into the industry, which revealed the swimwear industry is a global billion dollar industry which is still growing.
Describe the process of launching Klassikoz.
I reached out to a friend, who previously had her own swimwear label, for some guidance. She in turn put me in touch with a friend of hers who still runs a swimwear label in Australia. I asked lots of questions about the industry and the process of making swimwear from start to finish. I worked on the business in my spare time, at night and on weekends. I remember being up at all hours working on designs and taking an online fashion business course. Once designs and patterns were created, the search for a manufacturer began, which was probably one of the most challenging tasks. After months of searching, I eventually found a manufacturer who was ethical in their manufacturing processes and could produce high quality swimwear. The manufacturing process itself was also not without its challenges. For example, the rose gold zip that appears in the launch collection was very difficult to find. I was set on a rose gold metal zip, but finding a high quality metal zip, which passed the manufacturer’s testing, was harder than I thought it would be!
For women new to Klassikoz, how would you describe it?
Klassikoz is a luxury brand with designs that are timeless, elegant and comfortable. The launch collection is made with high quality Italian fabric that feels very smooth and silky against the skin.
What is the main inspiration for the brand?
Whenever I went shopping for swimwear I could never find any classic, elegant designs. I would walk into a big brand store and be faced with the latest trend in cut or fabric. Then Triangl took the swimwear world by storm (good on them, by the way, a very inspiring success story and I applaud them!) – neoprene was everywhere all of sudden, with other big brands following Triangl’s suit. However, I just wanted a classic and elegant swimsuit that flattered my figure and suited my age and style. More importantly, I wanted something that was comfortable to wear. It was a struggle to find.
What are the brand’s core values?
Premium quality, integrity and outstanding customer experience.
Describe the typical Klassikoz woman.
She is a strong and elegant woman who opts for a classic style.
What piece of advice do you have for anyone thinking of making the leap and starting a label?
I have learned so many lessons on my journey so far, but here are a few tips. I strongly recommend starting with a business plan. Find a mentor with industry experience as their guidance can be invaluable. Before contracting with any manufacturer, visit the premises and have an audit conducted to be sure they are who they say they are and aren’t engaging in unethical practices. You need to be able trust them! I’ve heard stories about designers who have engaged a manufacturer and paid them a lot of money, only to be delivered stock that is not in accordance with the designs and/or is defective. Fortunately, as I was put on notice of this risk before embarking on the manufacturing process, I took precautions and kept a close eye on quality control throughout the manufacturing process. Finally, you will suffer lots of setbacks and there will be many times that you will want to give up because it all seems too hard – it’s in those moments that you need to dig deep and keep going.
For more info on Klassikoz, please visit https://klassikoz.com.au.
