Andréa Bernholtz, a California native, is a serial mom-preneur and a fashion influencer who established the eco-friendly SWIMINISTA brand. She is recognized for her role in co-founding the high-end denim brand Rock & Republic in 2002, which became a worldwide phenomenon and a favorite among celebrities. Under her leadership, the company expanded its product line to include cosmetics, accessories, and clothing. In 2015, Andréa took on the position of CEO at Titan Industries, where she added fashionable footwear to her already impressive portfolio. Her latest venture, which combines her passion for fashion, swimming, and environmental consciousness, is a collection of stylish swimwear.
“I have never been able to find a swimsuit that fits just right,” explains Bernholtz. “If it holds me up, it looks like a sports bra or too old-fashioned. Otherwise, it doesn’t provide the right support and I pop out all the time!”
In 2019, Andréa Bernholtz recognized the common issues faced by hundreds of women with swimwear and decided to create a solution herself by co-founding the SWIMINISTA collection. Drawing from her experience at Rock & Republic and her first-hand knowledge of the waste-filled fashion industry, she aimed to not only create a superior swimsuit but also a better design process. The result is a collection of exceptionally comfortable swimwear crafted from soft, lavish nylon fabric that is made from post-consumer plastics. The collection includes a range of figure-flattering tops, bottoms, and one-pieces that can be mixed and matched to create timeless silhouettes in adjustable, customized fits that inspire confidence for women of all sizes, from A to DD.
To make the shopping experience more convenient, the SWIMINISTA online boutique features a personalized sizing guide that helps customers find the right suit for their unique bodies. In addition, the company offers a “Try At Home” option that eliminates the traditional and often soul-destroying try-on process. Customers can select a variety of swimsuits to test in the comfort and privacy of their homes. As part of the company’s commitment to the environment, all orders are shipped in eco-friendly, recycled, and compostable packaging.
In addition to her work on the SWIMINISTA line, Andréa Bernholtz enjoys spending quality time with her daughter and sharing her fashion industry insights with various publications, such as US Weekly’s “Fashion Police.” As an advocate for the environment, she regularly coordinates community beach clean-ups and volunteers her time for organizations like Heal the Bay, Oceania, and The Galapagos Conservancy.
To learn more about Andréa Bernholtz and her innovative and socially conscious SWIMINISTA brand, visit SWIMINISTA.com. Follow the brand’s Instagram account @SWIMINISTA to stay updated on the latest styles, new releases, and brand news. With SWIMINISTA, you’ll finally find your new favorite swimsuit that also supports philanthropic causes.
Here are some key points from the interview that took place between Andréa Bernholtz and The Business Fame:
- Give a detailed description of the Founder/CEO/Management’s contribution over the company and the industry.
As the designer and CEO, I am very involved in all aspects of the company on a daily basis. I believe in leading by example. I love what I do, so it never feels like work. I am very grateful to have the ability to work remotely and the opportunity to use my creative as well as business brain.
- Kindly talk about the exclusive products or services offered by the company, How does it distinguish you from your competitors?
SWIIMINISTA is the world’s first problem solving swimwear brand; we offer adjustable, chic, eco-friendly swimwear. We ease the anxiety out of trying on swim suits. We offer free Zoom consultations with our customer service manager, allowing you to get the right suit in the right color for you. We also have a “Try on at Home service,” allowing you to keep or return what works best for you within 14 days.
- Could you please share your noted milestones, accomplishments throughout your journey so far, along with company highlights and achievements under your leadership?
My biggest accomplishment so far has been making women feel great! When we get good reviews and compliments on our swimwear, I feel so proud and love that we make women feel confident. Collaborating with incredible artists and designers such as Christian Lacroix, James Peter Henry, and Robert Standish is such a thrill. SWIMINISTA is sold in some of the most luxurious resorts, such as the Four Seasons and Waldorf Astoria, which are wonderful accomplishments so far.
- Where do you see yourself and the company in the future? Or, what is your goal to mark the uniqueness in future?
The future is bright for SWIMINISTA; we are expanding into other categories in the swim world. Resort wear will be a big addition to the collection, as will men’s and boys’.
- Advice for the entrepreneur who is trying to embark in the same field.
Advice for future entrepreneurs: find your passion, work hard, don’t take no for an answer, don’t give up, and remember that each failure can be turned into a positive.
- What is the one thing that is acting as your motivational tool? Or, who is your role model and how the person inspires and motivates you?
I am motivated by my passion and desire, and I am also very inspired to teach others and lead by example. My daughter is a huge motivator for me in all aspects of life and work.
