The 20-Something Swimsuit Designer Who Inspired The Heck Out Of Us

Photo: Courtesy of Jyspea Swimwear 

Interview by Anita Sanikop

There’s no shortage of swimwear brands and styles on the market. But every once in a while you run into a brand that has unique styles, impeccable fit and a great story behind it. For Stefanie Holtzheuser of Jypsea Local Swimwear, the quality speaks for itself.

The 26-year-old designer and entrepreneur started her company three years ago with a love for aquatics and design.

Her story is not rare, but it is encouraging in a time when getting attention seems easy. Her journey is one of perseverance, sleepless nights and confidence in herself. And she keeps it real about every stop on the trip.

Holtzheuser chatted with StyleBlazer about her brand and the makings of a custom swimwear designer.

On the story behind going into design: “Jyspea Swimwear is a local swimsuit company located in Fort Lauderdale, FL. It started three years ago when I wanted to try out making a swimsuit for fun. My sisters and I know everyone in town and before we knew it so many girls wanted to customize their own bathing suits.”

On how the name Jypsea Local Swimwear was created: “My family and I are really big water lovers! We are always fishing, diving, boating or on the beach. And in the summer, I get a lot of my inspiration from the Bahamas. I haven’t missed a summer in the Bahamas in 20 years! We never plan, we just hop from island to island. We’ll drop an anchor; pop open a beer and just chill out. I feel like I live that gypsy lifestyle. I was actually on a boat with Nikki, my sister, and she was like ‘We’re gypsies but of the sea.’ I thought to myself, ‘Your right!’ The name was actually her idea – she thought we should use the name gypsy but play on the letters – so gypsy became Jypsea – that’s how Jypsea Local Swimwear was created.”

On what makes her swimsuits unique: “I have ultimate control, all the garments are handmade. People know quality. My swimsuits are not just one layer; everything is doubled layer. The swimsuits have a thick great feel and at the same time you feel sexy. These swimsuits are not going to come off when you jump in a pool and that’s really a big thing that I strive for in these designs. Everything is made to make you feel great but also to be functional. Your gonna be able to surf, skate and yoga with these swim suits.
A lot of these tops have multi-use. I want you to feel and function at your best! I also offer custom designs, you can place an order online or come into my store and tweak a design. If you want a little more or less coverage I can make that happen for you – everything is hand made. I cut and sew just for you!”

On how insecurities of women influences her swimsuit designs: “It definitely has an influence on the swimsuit designs. That is exactly why I offer the option to custom design the swim suit. If you have a scar you want to hide, I can make a garment to tailor those needs. At the end of the day, it’s not the garment – it’s how you feel about yourself. You have to feel good and love yourself. I have different styles that accent and reach out to different body types. I have bikini tops that give an extra lift or a little more push up for those that aren’t well-endowed in the chest region. I also have tops that are going to hold you in and provide support for my bustier girls. The same concept applies to my bathing suit bottoms. I have teenie tiny bottoms for the perfect tan, but I also have bottoms for those looking for full coverage. It all depends on what you are comfortable wearing. I have a garment that reaches out to everyone.”

On tips for girls looking to find the “perfect bathing suit” to best fit their body type: “Come into the store, we are located at 2711 E Commercial Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308. You have to just try on the suits.”

Read more about Holtzheuser on the next pages.

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