We’re so excited to support
Pō Swim, a collection inspired by Miami and started by Ava Frati at just 15! We talked to Ava about her entry into the design world, her newest
Pō Swim collection and what #AerieREAL means to her. Read on to find out how growing up in Miami has influenced this 15 year old to change the swim game, and
meet Ava on Saturday, 12.9 at our NEW Lincoln Road store!
You started Pō Swim at the age of 15. What advice do you have for other young girls trying to start their own businesses?
I launched
Pō Swim on my website earlier this year when I turned 15. I worked hard to try and design what young girls, like me, wanted in a swimsuit. The advice I have for other young girls trying to start their own businesses is believe in your ideas and set your goals high. Share your ideas for feedback with those you trust. Take advice and don’t be scared. You can achieve anything if you put your mind to it.
The one piece swimsuit has really made a comeback! What is your fave new swim trend?
My new favorite swim trend would have to be the
plunge top. It’s such a flattering and empowering shape– I can’t wait to introduce the new ones I designed.
What’s your favorite piece from your collection?
My favorite piece from my collection would have to be the
Mar top with the
Emma bottoms. Even though I do truly love all my suits, this set is so versatile. The mesh panels give off an active, sexy look, and the stitching of the suit is perfect for physical activity, or even hanging out on the beach. It’s the one suit that every girl should have!
How has growing up in Miami influenced your designs?
Growing up in Miami has influenced my designs by seeing lots of bikinis and the beautiful girls who wear them in all shapes and sizes. We are lucky enough to swim, boat and sunbathe all year round. Miami girls are always looking for that “new” bikini. We are active so it must move with us. Miami has influenced the ease of my designs, the comfort of the ultra-soft fabrics and the colors I choose. From the Miami sunsets, to the city lights of South Beach, all the colors and shapes of Miami have built my collection.
Pō Swim is continuing to grow! What can we expect to see in the future from your brand?
When I was younger, I knew I wanted to design. Pō Swim has just started as a bathing suit company but I want to expand and grow. I want the Pō Swim girl to wear my cover ups, carry my beach bags and slip on my shoes! In the future I plan to do espadrilles, beach bags and hats, ready to wear, and activewear. I want to grow with Pō Swim girls and hope they want to grow with me too!
What makes you #AerieREAL?
I am #AerieReal because I took chances and believed in a dream. All young girls dream of a way to express themselves but sometimes we get scared we may not achieve our goals. I chose to express myself through design. I hope other girls love my story and feel inspired to believe in themselves and dream big too. I am grateful to Aerie for giving me this awesome opportunity!
Where there is confidence there is beauty!
Ava Frati #AvaReal
Want to see more of Ava’s suits? Shop her collection in our
Lincoln Road store and at
Aerie.com!
