For luxurious swimwear and beachwear that tick all the boxes, look to Heidi Klein. Founded by Heidi Gosman and Penny Klein in 2002, the brand has built up an outstanding reputation for offering timeless and flattering pieces that are lovingly made from deluxe fabrics and don impeccable cuts that flatter, and importantly, last, so you can bring out your favorite swimsuit every year! At the heart of the brand is the celebration of the female form, and Heidi Klein is on a mission to make women feel supported and empowered with the lines of one-pieces and bikinis that sit alongside ready-to-wear and accessories. C-Founder Heidi Klein tells us more about her label, from her journey into the industry to her current favorite piece to wear in sunny climes.
How, when, why did you get into the industry?
I’ve always had a strong business mindset and knew that one day I’d start my own company. Back in 2002 I met Penny Klein at work and bonded over our shared dream of building our own business. It wasn’t until I was heading off for winter sun and couldn’t find anyone selling bikinis that it became clear there was a gap in the market – just waiting for a touch of imagination.
A year later we opened the doors to Heidi Klein Notting Hill. Both exhilarated and exhausted we quickly realized that we had created something that appealed to the likes of Kate Moss and Elle MacPherson whilst also catching the eye of Vogue and The Times, catapulting Heidi Klein into the spotlight. Those first few years of working on the shop floor allowed us to really understand our customers putting them at the heart of all we do. From this one store, we launched a Chelsea Store as well as an online channel, global wholesale business, and international retail partners. It’s still very much an evolving and exciting journey as we strive towards our mission of creating beautiful beaches, travel, and resort wear for now and years to come.
How would you sum up the aesthetic of Heidi Klein?
The aesthetic of Heidi Klein can be described as effortlessly chic and sophisticated. Our designs exude elegance, focusing on impeccable fit, luxurious fabrics, and styles that stand the test of time. Our ready-to-wear pieces feature timeless silhouettes and versatile pieces that seamlessly transition from day to night, embodying a sense of refined simplicity.
What is a luxury to you?
Luxury, to me, means things that are timeless, well-crafted, and of fantastic quality. It’s about items that are beautifully made with meticulous attention to detail and bring endless joy.
Who is your customer?
We are lucky that we have such a diverse customer base and have been able to really get to know our customers from all the years spent on the shop floor.
What are the cornerstones of your company?
The cornerstones of our business are:
- Ensuring an impeccable fit in every garment, catering to the diverse body shapes and sizes of our clientele.
- Crafting pieces that stand the test of time, ensuring longevity and durability for years to come.
- Mindful sourcing practices that prioritize sustainability and ethical considerations throughout our supply chain.
- Embracing timeless styles over fast fashion trends, allowing our designs to transcend seasons and remain relevant for years.
- Driving innovation across all aspects of our business, from design to customer experience, to continuously push boundaries and stay ahead of the curve.
Which was the first-ever piece that you designed and how did it come about?
When we first opened our store in Notting Hill, we spent a lot of time on the shop floor getting to know our customers and their wants and needs. It was there that we saw a gap in the market for creating mix-and-match swimwear sets. We saw an opportunity to offer customizable sets that catered to individual body shapes and sizes, empowering women to feel confident and comfortable in their swimwear choices. Our key USP of ‘fit’ was born and has been central to the brand ever since.
What is on your current mood board?
I recently spent some time last summer in the South of France and became obsessed with the colors, the smell, the food, and the boutiques. It’s currently my inspiration for our next collection, I’m excited to launch it next year.
Currently, which is your favorite piece?
I love our ‘Olive’ collection at the moment. It is understated yet sophisticated and perfectly captures the essence of timeless elegance.
