Above the Fray gets the summer swimwear scoop from designer Naila Chbib, of NAILA, the eco-conscious, luxury swimwear line that's making a splash
The 2011 line is enriched with rich tones and exotic prints from deep turquoise, vibrant tangerine, to animal prints and textured lycra. The collection is inspired by the designer's deep respect and awe for nature. With sublime "green" fabrics and brilliantly executed swimsuit cuts accented with decadent embellishments, Naila's swim collection is set to dazzle beaches, boats and pools worldwide. Anna Coroneo talks to the girl from Switzerland who is changing the face of swimwear.
AC: What were your main inspirations for your swimwear line?
NC: NAILA is oriented towards an environmental involvement and has focused its inspiration on nature. For the 2011 Collection, NAILA’s women’s line evolves around different textured Lycra reminiscent of the skin of an animal, and giraffe prints. From delicate embellishments, rhinestone appliqué and rich colors, the line is exclusively hand made in Italy. In our men’s and boy’s trunk shorts, NAILA uses an innovative and eco friendly material that has never been used in swimwear before. The polyester is made out of plastic bottles and is very light and soft. NAILA strives to provide a product of quality with a strong attention to details and innovation, while still respecting our environment. In our effort to our environmental goal, we will also donate a portion of our profits to an environmental association.
AC: Can you describe the women/men who wears your designs?
NC: Our clients are well-educated and well-traveled women and men, who are looking for style, quality and comfort with a focus on the environment. We carry some really flattering and fashionable monokinis with embellishments to more traditional two-pieces for the more busty women. I also absolutely refuse to produce the line in China, and wanted to bring ourcustomers a product of quality using some of the most divine Italian Lycra and cuts. NAILA is definitely for those looking for exclusivity, novelties and distinctive unique characteristics. NAILA is not a mass product but a more delicate line for the ones wanting to make a difference in the world and on the beach!
AC:Why did you decide to launch the collection at the Miami Swim Trade Show?
NC:We have decided to launch the line during Miami Swim Week, because it is one of the biggest events in the swimwear industry. It attracts all the major players in the industry. Not only IMG is organizing Fashion Swim Week but the Swim Trade Show is also held at the same time. NAILA has taken these two opportunities to launch its men’s line with an exclusive men’s fashion show at the Raleigh Hotel and with a booth at the Swim Trade Show to present the full women’s, men’s and boy’s lines.
AC: You're originally from Switzerland and now based in NYC. How has your background inspired your design philosophy?
NC:I am Swiss and grew up between Switzerland and the South of France. Switzerland being one of the most ecological countries in the world, I was at an early age influenced by the Swiss tradition of environmental protection. Living by the beach most of my life in the French Riviera had of course influenced my aesthetic, sensibility and style. My love for the beach and my passion for fashion had definitely been combined by launching this line. I think my clients will without doubt be able to find a touch of Mediterranean flair through the line.
AC:Which celebrities would you like to see wearing your swimwear?
NC:From Shalom Harlow, to Cameron Diaz for her hybrid car, Leodardo DiCaprio for his foundation promoting environmental causes, Edward Norton for promoting solar programs or even Daryl Hannah for her 23 days tree sit, I would love to have a “green” celebrity to wear NAILA involved in the environmental action, who can be an example for all of us.
AC: Where are your favorite places to wear your designs?
NC: From dancing at La Voile Rouge in Saint Tropez, to a cruise in Sardinia, a dip in Miami Beach, a drink at Shelter Island or even a quite vacation time in Mauritius Island, all are places where I wouldn’t hesitate to wear one of my designs.
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