Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolina Ospina.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
As lifelong beach-lovers with a heritage in Colombia, we noticed there weren’t any swimwear brands local to Miami that offered Colombian designs. So we wanted to create a brand that empowered the women who wear it and those who make it. That’s why all our pieces, from design to manufacture, are handmade by local seamstresses who have been able to establish their businesses out of their own homes.
We also wanted to make sure that our brand is an alternative to throwaway fashion, so we create all of our pieces with high-quality materials that are made to last year after year. In addition, to reduce waste, we produce products such as storage bags and headbands from any leftover fabrics from our swimwear.
We are always looking for ways to innovate and produce flattering, quality pieces while continually providing the best customer service.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Creating a swimwear brand has been a long-life dream. However, owning your own business and “jumping in the water” can be very frightening and overwhelming, especially when you’re surrounded by so many other talented designers and successful brands. However, my mom and business partner, Claudia, gave me the support and courage I needed to take the first steps.
After four years, KAARI SWIM has become an established brand that you can purchase online or through local retailers. However, even to this day, we face constant challenges and growing pains, especially sourcing materials from international vendors – not to mention a pandemic that completely disrupted our production and sales.
I believe that the success of KAARI SWIM has been due to our problem-solving and the ability to adjust quickly to whatever comes our way – not to mention the unconditional support of our family and friends. Yet, there’s so much we still have to learn and grow. We’re constantly looking for ways to improve and continue to provide exceptional customer service and one-of-a-kind pieces while still doing our bit towards protecting our incredible planet.
We’ve been impressed with KAARI SWIM, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
KAARI SWIM is a mother- and daughter-owned brand run by Carolina Ospina and Claudia Restrepo. KAARI SWIM’s mission is to create swimwear that empowers women – both the women who make it and those who wear it. Even though our native country, Colombia, inspires our designs and prints, it was essential to manufacture in our hometown, Miami. We provide work to local, talented, and passionate seamstresses who have made this a business of their own. They have become an essential part of our brand through the years, and we frequently consult with them about our ideas. They are part of our KAARI SWIM family.
One aspect of our business that sets us apart is our dedication to the environment. Our brand is an alternative to throwaway fashion, with our swimwear made from high-quality materials that will last for years. In addition, to reduce waste, we create products such as storage bags and headbands from any leftover fabrics from our swimwear.
We don’t want to be just a “bikini store,” but a brand you can rely on for all your swimwear needs. We’ll always make sure you love your piece so that you can feel beautiful and confident every time you wear a KAARI SWIM.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was born in Colombia, but shortly after, my family and I moved to Chile. We then moved to Miami, where my passion for swimwear was born. Since I was little, I’ve always been very stubborn and independent. I’ve always dreamed about having my own business and empowering women. So when the opportunity to have my swimwear brand came about, I grabbed it without hesitation. I’ve always believed that life is about taking risks and getting out of my comfort zone. I knew that having my own business would be extremely rewarding but also challenging. So I’ve always made sure to surround myself with people who will encourage me in the hard times and at the same time celebrate every win, no matter how small it is.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@kaarisiwm.com
- Website: www.kaariswim.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaariswim/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaariswim
Image Credits
Taylor Bryant
Francisco Betancourt
