RAWR interviews TAVIK's designer Nicole Hanriot!

We're SO excited to share a RAWR exclusive interview with TAVIK's gorgeous designer, Nicole Hanriot.



RAWR- How did you come up with the name TAVIK?

Nicole- Tavik actually started out as a men's surf, skate, street wear line and has been in the industry for about 5 years. I licensed the name 2 years ago so I can't say I came up with the name but the meaning behind it is pretty cool. TAVIK is an iconic Southern California lifestyle brand that exploded out of a fusion of surf, street, and skate. TAVIK provides streetwear, surf clothing, & skate clothing but differentiates itself with loud, 'out there' designs that scream to individuals and empower them to define themselves. It's distinct style coupled with clean, contemporary lines produces a brand that goes beyond trends and fosters originality.

TAVIK is more than apparel- it is a radical lifestyle movement in itself. Led by people who pump up the volume every chance they get, TAVIK advocates a dynamic lifestyle colored by energy, music and motion. Meet TAVIK- fabricating visions since day one.

The Belladonna One Piece (We LOVE!)

RAWR- What 3 words would you use to describe the brand?

Nicole- Electric, Stylish & Unique.

RAWR- What makes TAVIK stand out from other designer swimwear brands?

Nicole- Our prints and styles are always unique we like to stand out in the crowd using bold vintage prints and silhouettes that are not your every day pool side pieces. We like our customers to transform the suits from pool side to day time outfits. We like to make bikinis that are not only for the beach or pool.

RAWR- What inspired your latest collection?

Nicole- I was inspired by the vibrant street culture and crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Riviera, the Summer ’11 Collection is sexy, romantic, and fearlessly festive.

Check out this awesome video of the Summer 2011 collection.

RAWR- Lots of celebrities have been spotted wearing TAVIK but what one celeb would you love to see rockin' your swimmers?

Nicole- We would love to see Kate Moss in them!

Eliza Doolittle at Mulberry's Pool Party, Coachella.

RAWR- Do you have a favourite iconic swimwear image from over the decades?

Nicole- Yes, I have always loved this picture from Elle with Heidi Klum in Chanel:


RAWR- How would you describe your own personal style?

Nicole- My own personal style is southern California bohemian beach girl. You will always see me with a hippy head band and bikini top on under my clothes.

RAWR- Tell us something we don't know about TAVIK?

Nicole- We are collaborating with some new artists for next year, which we are really excited about. We will be launching special bikinis designed by certain artists we work with.

So there you have it- eeeek!! We want to say a HUGE thanks to Nicole for taking time out to answer our questions.

For information on stockists & to view the entire collection, visit the official website here. Also be sure to stalk them on Twitter & fan them on Facebook for all the latest swimwear news!

J & T- Totally TAVIK obsessed. XoX