Tavik Swimwear’s first collection of spring suits hasn’t even gone to production yet, but Sofia Coppola has already sent fresh-faced, 24 year old designer Nicole Hanriot a handwritten note of congratulations on her first ever fashion line. “Every day is surreal to me,” Hanriot gushes. ” I still don’t really get that it’s happening.
The Newport Beach Blonde bombshell grew up in the action sports world, interning for Volcom and E! Entertainment before heading to FIDM for production development. Straight out of school, Hanriot got her flirty design direction as assistant designer for L.A. based loungewear company Primp. And it wasn’t long before this determined designer was ready to branch out. “I’ve always wanted my own line and I’ve always loved the beach and swimwear.” she says
I watched Saved by the Bell and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air religiously when I was a kid,” Hanriot explains of her ’90s pop culture-infused, color-blocking (including a print inspired by Saved by the Bell’s scratchy design in the opening credits,) Leotard-esque silhouettes and high waisted, cut out one-pieces.
Finding her style sensibility aligned with Costa Mesa’s Tavik menswear, which oozes a Surf City circa 1990′s street-wear vide, Hanriot opted to enter into a licensing agreement with the company rather than start her own swimwear line solo. And they’ve already given her free rein to expand the brand with womenswear, which will launch this summer for back-to-school closet staples including tees, hoodies and dresses. “I really identified with Tavik’s design philosophy, so this just makes sense.” she says.
Though Hanriot comes across as soft-spoken and shy, she’s far from timid when it comes to hopping on the fast track to making her dreams a reality. And whiles she’s already garnered national media attention to Elle and Marie Claire, she’s still a star-struck girl next door. When asked about the highlight of Miami Fashion Week, she exclaims, ” Mena Suvari tweeted me a shout-out!”
Suit Yourself
Newport Beach blondie Nicole Hanriot expands O.C. streetwear brand Tavik with a new swimwear line
By Stefanie Phan
Photography by Edward Duarte
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