TransWorld caught up with our Creative lead, Carly Osler, to hear more about the recent AGOGO collaboration. Want to know what it was like to work with Humphrey in her initial foray into the swimwear market, or where Carly sees TAVIK headed in the near future? Read more in the full “Design Desk” article HERE
What was so appealing to Tavik about partnering with Jennifer for this particular collection?
For this collection we chose to work with Jennifer Humphrey because she is a perfect extension of the TAVIK Swimwear brand. Her effortless, chic and rock n’ roll style provides a great twist to traditional swimwear. We love her blog, and how she pairs song lyrics with fashion. Jennifer wanted her entrance into the swim world to have a similar twist. With her background in fashion and modeling, she brought an elevated approach to the styling of the pieces.
What was the design and production process like and what are some of the specific feedback and collaborative work you got from Jennifer on these pieces?
We made sure that Jennifer was really hands-on throughout the entire process. She created mood boards that we worked with our design, fit, and production teams to bring to life. For each step of this process she met with us in person to review in detail everything that was going into this collaborative line. Jennifer wanted to make sure that when her AGOGO name is associated with a product, it is aligned perfectly with her blog and public persona. We wanted to make sure that this collection spoke directly to who Jen is, while providing a great fit and quality piece to every customer. She made it a point to hand select every little detail that went into this process, her visions for the lookbook were brought to life with styling efforts from Alex Ferrera, photography by Derek Despain, and hair/makeup from Stacey Tan.
What sets this line of swimwear apart from others on the market at the moment?
True to the heart of a good collaboration it really comes down to Jen’s style. She is the new media queen of rock n’ roll styling, and this twist of fate creates sexy, edgy, rock styles with a feminine edge and fit—cuts, ruffles, etc. Her approach to transitioning traditional daytime pieces into nighttime going-out staples makes an exciting addition to any girls’ closet. This unique pairing is an interesting injection into the swim world.
Can you explain what sort of innovative materials were used to create this line?
Jen really loved the luxe Italian fabric that we use throughout the line. In addition, Jen chose to work with a coated neoprene in some of her pieces. These are especially on trend and great staples to wear out at night, to a pool party, or the beach. The cover-ups are constructed of a crochet pattern that are beyond sexy. If you’re feeling a bit cheeky, we recommend wearing them with or without one of the AGOGO collaboration suits.
What are some of the main retailers who have picked up this collection? How do you feel high fashion pieces like this carry over into the surf market in particular?
In order to work with Jen, and get these products to our loyal fans during the next swim season we’ve produced a limited, yet timeless line. Details for exact retail locations can’t be released at this time, but make sure to stay tuned to find out who gets it first! The surf market is completely dictated by high fashion looks. TAVIK has always been a fashion forward brand, more influenced by fashion and pop culture than surf wear. The core of our brand is Modern Beach Culture; it’s all about hanging out, whether at a pool party, a festival, or the beach.
What was your favorite piece to design and why?
We really loved working with Jen as a collaborator on each piece. She conceptualized each design, and we just put our magic into them to make sure the fit and materials were the best it could be. This question would be best suited for her! But my personal favorite is the ‘CONNIE’ one-piece. It’s made from coated neoprene and fits like a glove… making you feel sexy and chic.
Why does Tavik see the swimwear market as a category that they want to continue to grow and invest in?
TAVIK loves the swim market and is proud of the mark our brand has been able to make since its inception. We’ve been able to work with so many talented designers and influencers and are constantly blown away by fresh takes and approaches to women’s swimwear. At the heart of all of this is the beloved bikini, one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century. Swim is such a fun market to work in. With the recent advances in approaches, such as this collaboration, swimwear inspires us to want to do so much more!