Summer may be drawing to a close, but for Camilla and Marc, swim is in its Spring. The label is finding huge success both locally and abroad with its C&M Swimwear range.
Swim is one of the most traditional pathways an Australian label can go down when it comes to international expansion, but it is well worn because it works.
Here, we chat to Camilla Freeman-Topper about the brand's current collection, and what we can expect from them next, and the spirit of swimwear.
Tell us a bit about the currently available swim collection?
The current collection is our Cruise swim collection. It features lots of strong block colour in tropical shades as well as a blue based leopard print and a geometric grid check. The silhouette for the cruise collection is influenced by bikini styles of the 50's with high or mid waisted styles.
And can you give us a hint at what will be coming up next?
Next season for Spring 2012 swim we focused on print and based each print on a different art movement such as cubism and abstract expressionism. This allowed us to be very explorative with our print direction.
Your swimwear does very well overseas. Do you think its easier for international markets to accept Australian labels who do swim?
I think that overseas markets really like the idea of the Australian lifestyle, especially our highly desirable beach culture so they embrace Australian labels who include it as part of their brand.
How have you translated the Camilla and Marc DNA into swimwear?
C&M camilla and marc SWIM has a modern, clean, feminine feel similar to our mainline. The line has a focus on prints in contrast to mainline which is primarily driven by drapery and tailoring.
What recommendations would you have for others on how to carry their personal style over into swim?
I think that the best thing to do is apply the same principles to your swimwear as you do to your daywear. So if you tend to have a simple classic style with a preference for neutrals then I'd recommend a classic one-piece or bandeau bikini in black. The other thing we always recommend is to choose a style that suits your body instead of worrying about trends.
What can’t you live with out at the beach, personally?
I love a day at the beach with my family, lots of sunscreen, water and a big umbrella.
What has been your favourite ever beach vacation, and can you tell us why?
A trip to Formentera spent lazing around my favorite restaurant eating local produce with my feet in the sand and watching the sunset.
Is there any beach you’ve been dying to visit? If someone were to give you a trip there tomorrow, what would you pack?
I would love to go to Coqui Coqui Resort in Tulum, Mexico. I wouldn't pack much - a few of our bikinis, some great cotton throw-on pieces, some sandals and a hat.
Where do you stand on bikinis vs onsies?
I wear both, I love bikinis for around the pool and one pieces for swimming in the ocean.
List some key ingredients for the ultimate pool party?
An infinity pool with a view, lots of delicious drinks and food plus good friends.