Interview with Swimwear Designer Ava Sanjurjo

Posted on | May 22, 2012 | No Comments

As the swimwear season has just started, we give you this amazing interview with Young Designer Ava Sanjurjo, last April she launched Rica Swimwear hosted by Jessica White.

Can you tell me about your background, Ava? Where are you from?
I am a Puerto Rican Girl from Bronx, New York (born and raised). My mom and dad were both born in New York, so it’s the city made me. Love it.

When did you realize you wanted to become a swimwear designer? And why?
When I started in the industry I was all about ready-to-wear. I designed for the contemporary market and did very high end couture. I had the opportunity to design a swimwear collection at a major manufacturor and from there on I was hooked. I loved playing with colours and fit. It was so natural and exciting. I knew someday I would design lingerie but swimwear just came to me and was the perfect match.

Tell us what is your work year like? Is there a particular season that’s busier?
Right this minute it is incredibly busy. I’m developing the 2013 Rica line. We will be showing at Miami Swim for the first time which is so exciting. I have fittings, fabric meetings, and I’m constantly working with my pattern maker for the perfect fit. Everything is important right now. We are in such a great place and it’s all about going that extra mile in the creative process, now.

Where do you find your inspiration?
I always find myself going through photos of super models of the 1980′s and 90′s. New York plays an important roll in my work. Everything about this city is who I am today. The art, the night creatures, the hustle and the vicious glamour. Music also plays an important roll in everything I design. Before the pencil hits the paper the music has to be ready.

What is your designing process?
First thing I do is research what cup styles I see woman gravitating to. Am I going to focus on triangles or underwires? Then, from there, it all comes together. I always want to do interesting one pieces and I always see how far I can go with a tiny two piece. Then it’s about colour and texture. I’m a typical New Yorker that wears black but when it comes to swim wear, I love to play with colour. I shop for the best in fabrics from around the world until I find the right one that suits the collection.

What are three essentials for the beach?
A Rica suit, powerful sunscreen, and a dirty book.

Do you read any fashion websites or blogs?
I read blogs all the time. They are the future. You get an idea of what trends are “in” and who’s wearing what. I feel I’m always up to date with all the latest in absolutely everything. They really do the homework for us.

Where can we purchase your swimwear?
Rica is currently sold at California Sunshine and special on line orders.