After ten years in Los Angeles, Alexandra Outerbridge remains unaffected by the city’s body image pressures.
It’s a character she hopes to instil in her customers with a new line of swimwear, Axil Swim.
The jewellery designer partnered with close friend and photographer Ana Ochoa to create a line of interchangeable separates “for all body types”.
“We wanted to create swimwear that could look great on all body types and enhance a woman curves,” Ms Outerbridge said.
“We’re completely opposite body types. I’m 5′ 10″; she’s 5′ 3″. She’s got a bust; I don’t. But we’re both able to put on this swimwear and look good in it.”
Ms Outerbridge is sure their designs will set them apart in a flooded market.
“Everything is handsewn and ethically sourced in Los Angeles, so there’s a level of quality,” she said. “We partnered with our factory, and use this as a way to connect and support local artisans. We’re also really, really particular when picking the material. It’s soft, wearable but still durable and unique.”
The bikinis come in black, olive, honey, rose and wine. The pink triangle logo is a nod to her native Bermuda.
“It’s created by women for all women,” Ms Outerbridge said. “Our bottoms are cheeky and show a little bit more booty, but we have short and three-quarter-sleeve tie tops that are really good for the larger busted woman. They tie you in and make you feel secure.”
“I noticed that there was a lack for women who are a bit busty, looking for swimwear that they felt sexy but secure in. They felt that they had to compromise on one or the other.”
She and Ms Ochoa met at the University of Miami. They collaborated on the Bermudian’s Outerbridge Jewelry campaigns and launched the swimsuit collection at the start of the month.
Sports Illustrated swimwear search winner Kayla Fitz is featured in their lookbook, while model Zoe Raii was also shot wearing the suits. They also received a celebrity endorsement from Nia Sioux of the hit Lifetime show, Dance Moms.
“I’m excited to learn how to produce and design a different medium – especially having always done jewellery,” Ms Outerbridge said.
“It’s been really fun to have a new challenge and to work in textiles. I’ve really enjoyed it.”
The 33-year-old will relaunch her namesake brand Outerbridge Jewelry at the end of the year.
