Styling Swimwear All Year Long with Koi Bikinis

Up next in our Interview Series we're sitting down with Karen Duque, founder of Koi Bikinis. Known for their curated selection of luxury swimwear, Koi Bikinis is a one-stop shop for finding beach-friendly styles that have been created ethically and sustainably. With a focus on high-quality handmade pieces, their mission is to empower customers to choose swimwear that will create a positive impact in the communities in which they were made.

We sat down with Karen to learn more about the meaning behind the Koi Bikinis brand name, her secrets for styling swimwear après-beach all year long, and what you'll find in her bag for a day at the beach.

I hope you enjoy learning more about their brand and their story. XO, Crista

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An Interview with Karen Duque, Founder of Koi Bikinis

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Tell us a bit about the Koi Bikinis brand. How did you get started? Any special meaning behind the name?

KOI BIKINIS was born through our passion for handcrafted bikinis and everything they represent, which is self-love and feeling confident about your body and image. We wanted to create a space where our customers could find amazing brands from around the world all in one place.

The name KOI comes from our founders' love for Koi fish. They symbolize good luck, abundance and perseverance, as well as a representation of courage. According to a Japanese legend, if a koi fish succeeded in climbing the falls on the Yellow River, it would be transformed into a dragon. We thought this would be the perfect name for a brand that represents women who are confident and fearless.

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You specifically showcase swimwear designs that are handcrafted and sustainably made. Why is ethical fashion important?

All the brands that we work with are 100% handmade and locally sourced; we at KOI BIKINIS take ethic responsibilities very seriously. All our partners work very hard to create a positive impact in the communities they are inserted in.

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What helps you stay inspired and excited?

Confident women and being able to see what some fearless women out there have accomplished keeps me inspired. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities that have been given to modern women to express not only what we feel but most importantly to be able to be what each of us wants to be. I believe regardless of what you decide to do with your life, you just need to do it with passion and completely own it. That excitement, dedication and passion will continue bring changes that can open even more doors for women around the world and generations to come.

I believe regardless of what you decide to do with your life, you just need to do it with passion and completely own it.

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What are your top three must-have's in your bag for a day at the beach?

• Sunscreen (Face and Body): The sunscreen is of extreme importance every day, but on vacation, it deserves a very special attention: there are specific protectors for the body and also for the face, besides different forms of application. Each one, perfect for a situation: prefer the spray if you go to clubs or beaches.
• Sunglasses: The sun can be a great villain of the eyes, Ultra violet rays (UVA) are very harmful and can cause diseases like cataracts, macular degeneration, among others…. And apart from protecting us, a beach look is never fully ready with some brilliant trendy sunglasses. I love how much fun we can have these days with all the different types of sunglasses in the market.
• Leave-in conditioner (Hair): The non-rinse cream is also very useful on the beach, to use before and after you enter the sea and prevent the hair from drying out. Summer is the season of the year when the hair needs more care. In the case of colored hair, attention should be increased. At this season, dyed yarns tend to fade more easily, and because they are already weakened by chemistry, they are more likely to be damaged by the effects of summer.

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We're all about the "endless summer" vibe. Any tips for rocking our swimwear post-beach or in cooler temps, all year round?

A one-piece swimsuit can be used with several sets, such as skirts, shorts and pants. You can also play with the neckline - be it more open or simple - or with the back open. PS: when choosing a one-piece swimsuit, make sure to choose one that you feel comfortable in! You can also use your bikini top as a cropped top. Your bikini top can be used as separate piece to create different styles and looks.

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What are some jewelry staples you can't live without?

To rock a summer look that matches your KOI BIKINIS piece, we chose a few trends that we can't live without.

• Body Chains: these are the necklaces for the body and a great option to wear with the bikini. It has several versions, which can be for a specific part of your body such as arms, bust, shoulders, back, legs or depending on your personal style.
• Necklaces: “Mix and Match” - do not be afraid of using different types and styles of necklaces when going to the beach/pool. Just have fun and explore different styles!

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What are your 3 favorite pieces of Criscara jewelry?

Love your necklaces, especially the Dawn Layered Necklace; the Blue Lagoon Body Chain, and the amazing selection of bracelets … I am a big gold fan!

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Do you have a favorite quote or mantra you live by?

“Life is better in a bikini”

“Life is better in a bikini”

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Where can people find your products?

• Website: www.koibikinis.com
• Instagram: @koibikiniss

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Photo Credit/Location: KOI BIKINIS, Cappitana, Soah and Malai

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✧ ✧ ✧ Shop Bikini-Ready Body Chains ✧ ✧ ✧

Use discount code KOIBIKINIS at checkout for 21% off your order!

Offer valid until 2/12/2019. May not be combined with any other discounts.