The Inspiring Journey of Avenue Swim From Startup to Success

Starting a clothing brand from a home office is a challenge few take on, especially when it involves creating swimwear by hand. Avenue Swim began in just such a space, w

here every piece was sewn personally, reflecting a deep commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Over time, the brand grew, and with growth came the opportunity to expand production ethically in Bali. Yet, the heart of Avenue Swim remains in handmade suits, honoring the roots that shaped the brand’s identity.

This post explores the story behind Avenue Swim’s journey, the balance between handmade artistry and ethical manufacturing, and how the brand continues to deliver unique swimwear with care and responsibility.

The Humble Beginnings in a Home Office

Avenue Swim’s story starts in a small home office, where the founder personally cut, stitched, and assembled every suit. This hands-on approach allowed for complete control over quality and design, ensuring each piece met high standards.

Working from home meant flexibility and a direct connection to the creative process. It also meant long hours and learning every detail of garment construction. This foundation built a strong understanding of materials, fit, and customer needs.

The early days were about more than just making suits; they were about creating a product that felt personal and authentic. Each suit carried the story of its maker, which resonated with customers looking for something special.

Why Handmade Suits Still Matter

Even as Avenue Swim expanded, the brand kept handmade suits as a core offering. Handmade swimwear offers several advantages:

• Attention to detail: Every stitch is carefully placed, reducing errors and improving durability.

• Customization: Handmade suits can be tailored to fit individual preferences.

• Connection to tradition: Craftsmanship honors the skills passed down through generations.

• Sustainability: Handmade production often uses less energy and produces less waste.

  
  

Maintaining this tradition allows Avenue Swim to stay true to its origins while offering customers a unique product that stands apart from mass-produced swimwear.

Avenue Swim Bloom 1 Campaign

Handmade swimwear being shot in a way that show cases this drop. crafted in a home office, reflecting the brand’s personal touch and dedication.

Transitioning to Ethical Manufacturing in Bali

As demand grew, it became clear that scaling production required a new approach. It was imperitave to me, being the owner of Avenue Swim, to lock into a manufacturer that aligned with my morals and ethics. We were lucky enough to find the most perfect fit.

This move allowed Avenue Swim to:

• Increase production capacity without sacrificing quality.

• Support local communities through fair wages and safe working conditions.

• Use sustainable materials and processes aligned with the brand’s values.

• Maintain transparency in the supply chain.

  
  

Bali’s rich tradition of textile craftsmanship and ethics made it an ideal place to continue the brand’s story. The collaboration respects both the environment and the people involved in making each suit.

Balancing Handmade and Manufactured Lines

Avenue Swim offers two distinct lines: the original handmade suits, called "Handmade by Emma" and the ethically manufactured line, called, "Bloom Kinis" collection from Bali. This balance provides customers with options depending on their preferences and needs. I also really wanted to keep my Handmade aspect to stay close to my roots and where Avenue Swim started.

• Handmade by Emma suits remain limited edition, crafted with care in small batches.

• Bloom Kinis, Ethically Manufactured suits offer consistent quality and availability, produced with ethical standards.

  
  

This approach keeps the brand connected to its roots while embracing growth and responsibility. Customers appreciate knowing that every suit, whether handmade or manufactured, meets strict quality and ethical criteria. Also while knowing and having confidence that each suit, Handmade by Emma, and Bloom Kinis, will keep them feeling confident and comfortable season after season.

The Importance of Ethical Practices in Fashion

The fashion industry faces criticism for environmental damage and poor labor conditions. Avenue Swim’s commitment to ethical manufacturing addresses these concerns by:

• Choosing factories that pay fair wages.

• Ensuring safe and healthy work environments.

• Using eco-friendly fabrics and dyes.

• Minimizing waste through efficient production methods.

  
  

These practices not only protect workers and the planet but also create products customers can feel good about wearing.

I was lucky enough to spend two full days in and around the Manufacture and with the owner, seeing how the operation works. Like I mentioned above, this jump was a big one for Avenue Swim. And it was beyond impertive to align with someone who shared the same morals and ethics. This way every single Avenue Swim supporter can feel confident in the ethics of their purchase.

What Customers Can Expect from Avenue Swim Today

Whether choosing a handmade or Bali-manufactured suit, customers receive:

• High-quality materials designed for durability and comfort.

• Unique designs inspired & hand drawn by the founder’s, Emma, original vision.

• Transparent information about how and where suits are made.

• A brand that values craftsmanship, ethics, and sustainability.

  
  

This combination builds trust and loyalty, encouraging customers to support a brand that cares about its impact.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey

Avenue Swim’s story is ongoing. The brand plans to:

• Expand its ethical manufacturing partnerships.

• Introduce new designs that blend tradition with innovation.

• Increase transparency about sourcing and production.

• Keep handmade suits as a symbol of the brand’s origins and values.

  
  

This commitment ensures Avenue Swim remains a leader in responsible swimwear, inspiring others to consider the story behind their clothes.