Interviews
Elsesser Encourages Body Inclusivity
Jemima Hunter
August 11, 2021
British born Swiss-American model Paloma Elsesser, is keen to encourage inclusivity in the fashion industry by collaborating with Dos Swim to produce the ‘Heat Wave’ collection; the body positive swimwear that fits all shapes and sizes.
The twenty-nine-year-old had established a career in plus-size modelling, since her discovery by makeup artist, Pat McGrath on Instagram. She had always found it difficult to find ocean attire to fit her shape. ‘It did feel like there was a decline in swimwear that was cool and passable and chunky-girl-friendly.’
Already cover girl on American Vogue, Glamour and British Vogue, Elsesser wanted to use her platform as an advocate for positive self-image, which is why she decided to put her own spin on the new swimwear collection.
‘A lot of swimwear brands that are out there now for curvy or bigger body types, so often they focus on all coverage. And sometimes, thicker girls want a skimpier moment.’
Although Dos Swim is a recent addition to the fashion industry, founded in 2019, Shay Johnson and Paula Hess have already established high profile fans and love to celebrate diverse bodies. The pair began the brand initially due to being unable to find high quality swimwear that’s affordable and includes detailing. ‘We wanted to make swimwear that actually fit well, celebrated different body types, and represented us.’
The collection designs are based on unusual, bold prints that are suggestive of outdoors and hiking in the summer. The designers created the label for those on the hunt for active swimwear attire. ‘I think the swimwear industry is reflective of the fashion industry, which ultimately sends messages like, ‘This is what’s flattering, so this is what you have permission to wear.’
Elsesser, Johnson and Hess picked the style, shape and theme for each piece, working naturally together to create a series of swimwear that flatters all sizes and improves body positivity.
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