Biscuits, Hemsworth Brothers and bikinis. There are some things Australians just do better! And given that we live on an island home, unsurprisingly, our swimsuit designers are some of the best in the world. But, lest you think we’re being a little biased, it seems like the whole world agrees. With a new Aussie designer set to make its debut at Miami Swim Week tomorrow! Here’s why we’re full of patriotic pride for Full Bums Swimwear.
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Ashya McDonald founded Full Bums Swimwear, a Gold Coast-based boutique brand that offers (as the name suggests) full bum coverage. Ashya’s idea came about when she moved to the Gold Coast. And, realised there were very limited options for swimwear that didn’t expose the derrière. What started as a joke has turned into a flourishing business, now selected to showcase its collection at Miami Swim Week in the US on Tuesday, 2 July 2024.
Making magic at Miami Swim Week
Full Bums Swimwear is one of the few Australian brands chosen to showcase its designs. And the only brand dedicated to full bum coverage. This selection is a testament to the unique vision and dedication Ashya has for her brand. “I’m one of 50 designers taking part in this specific event. And, I think I’m going to stand out with my full coverage. A lot of the models won’t be wearing a lot!” Ashya said. “I’m the polar opposite of the other brands, but I am so excited that they accepted me and that I can show something different.”
Diversity done right
The brand will present eight looks at the Perez Art Museum in Miami on 2 July. Including bikinis, one-pieces, kimonos, towels, hats and other swimwear accessories. Ashya has also collaborated with Australian artist Erin Reinboth, whose original artwork will feature on the swimwear. This collaboration adds a unique and artistic touch to the collection, making it stand out even more.
Ashya is also a champion for body diversity. When the organisers of the fashion show asked her to provide swimwear in sizes AU 4-6, she flatly refused and insisted on having models who are sizes 12-18 also modelling her designs. “When I asked the Miami Swim Week event organisers what sizes they needed for the models, they said just sizes 4-6 Australian. I said, ‘no sorry, that’s not going to work. It’s 2024, and not every woman is a size 6’,” Ashya said. “So I am really proud to be representing diversity with our show. At least half of my models will be sizes 12, 14, and 16.”
Making waves beyond Miami
Full Bums Swimwear, which launched in September 2021, has been doubling revenue year on year. It started as a side hustle but has now expanded internationally to the US, UK, Singapore, Dubai, and Thailand. “Many women worldwide feel that no swimwear caters to them.” A lot of women still want some extra coverage on their bottom while still looking and feeling sexy,” Ashya said. “To have eyes on my brand at Miami Swim Week is an incredible opportunity. One that I hope will boost brand awareness, put myself out there and hopefully land some stockist opportunities.”
