Mix two ladies with surf inspired dreams, natural talent, and a desire to make fashion blend with function and you will find the brainchildren behind the amazing swimwear line Issa de’ mar.
Marissa Eveland and Melissa Jasniy, known affectionately by some as the “Issa’s”, met in college and are the creators behind Issa de’ mar. Their company started humbly with hand-sewn bikinis that came out of Roam Hawai’i, a mobile boutique on Oahu. The bikinis were a hit and fans have never looked back!
With both ladies taking on any and all major and minor roles in the company, it is a wonder how they squeezed in a little interview with us here at Freesurf!
What made you want to start a swimwear company?
Growing up in Hawaii, I was in the ocean around the same time I was walking. I learned to sew at 12 and from there I started creating my own bikinis and clothing all the way through high school. Graduating from college, we had started handsewing Issa de’ mar bikinis and selling out of Roam Hawai’i mobile store. Girls liked the bikinis and I haven’t looked back since.
Does surfing play a role in the creative process?
Surfing is a key player in the creative process. We want to design swimwear that is functional as well as fashionable. When we come up with new pieces we ask ourselves- how will this work in the ocean? If we can we make pieces adjustable so they can be tighter when you are in the water and need more support.
What are the biggest accomplishments of 2014?
2014 has been a blessing and I am so thankful for the opportunities we have been given. Issa de’ mar can now be found in stores we grew up shopping at like Dianes Beachwear, Revolve Clothing.com, Urban Outfitters new store- Without Walls, Swell.com, Local Motion and more! We had a feature in Surfing Magazine Swim issue.
What is the inspiration behind the current collection?
We were inspired by places girls dream of escaping too. Where your daydreams take you- shores of Biarritz or to Sao Paulo- we were inspired to create timeless pieces by these exotic destinations.
What sets you apart from other swimwear lines/companies?
Issa de’ mar is about function and fashion- we set ourselves apart by having unique pieces that can be adjustable straps, removable pads, and different ways to wear one top.
Where is the future of the company headed?
Continuing to push the limits, we want to keep coming up with signature designs and styles that girls want and love. Growing on the business side and headed to more tradeshows.
Any insider information on the next collection?
Get ready.
If you want to see more of the luscious suits that Issa de’ mar is famous for, check out their website at http://issademar.com. Keep an eye out for more #freekini action on our Instagram | @freesurfmagazine and Facebook | Freesurf Magazine.
