Just before the end of Summer 2018, Carib Voxx had a chat with swimwear designer and entrepreneur, Simone Michelle, founder of miSimBeachBabe.
What inspired the name of your brand?
“Initially I used the name “sim simma” and then “mishca me” both nicknames from family/friends. It eventually evolved from Miss Sim, not sure why people called me that though, lol. Its still “Miss Sim” I just shortened it a bit to be “miSim”
Who is the woman behind the business?
“A tenacious and creative entrepreneur who takes advantage of opportunities to grow and expand her brand which originated in event management and decor to fashion and now brand development including social media management. I love to create, I always want to make something, innovate or invent something in one way or another and I love to try new things and apply it to whatever focus I have at the time. I am bold and adventurous, and I love to take risks, especially like working under pressure lol.”
What do you think were some of the main challenges in getting your business started?
“Lack of support of creative industries from more established industries, like from financial institutions. I also think that persons think this like is so simple and glamorous but its endless sleepless nights and critique and even ridicule sometimes. Its hard for persons to take you seriously from the jump and often times balancing the various roles you have to play make it extremely hard to be encouraged and focused”
Do you design and make the swimwear?
“I do/did! For the last 5 years or so when I started swimwear, I’ve made each piece, just like resort wear, bridal and evening wear that I started 12 years ago. It was something I didn’t want to let go, but now I find myself a bit more interested in the business and marketing aspects of things so I’ve recently outsourced labour for the swimwear line locally! Its honestly changed my view on design and helped me to run a business. I still make a few orders but since summer of 2018, to ensure enough inventory was available for the summer, I got a little help.”
What styles are signature to MISIMBEACHBABE?
“Reversible bikinis! And essential monokinis! Having a bikini you can wear on both sides allows you to have 4 swimsuits in one depending on how you mix and match. The monokinis I’ve started to focus on a little bit this year are flattering for all body types and have a “staple” in your swimsuit drawer vibe but with a little flair 😉 “
Where is the best beach in the world?
“I’m not sure yet but I’m pretty sure its somewhere in Greece! But my faves island to visit for all things beach is Turks and Caicos.”
What are your top three beach essentials?
“Towels (TWO, one for the sand and one for me), COLD WATER and music!”
What is the biggest swim trend you are seeing on the beach?
“Monokinis! They’ve made the ultimate comeback and I’m all for it!”
Who was the first celeb to wear your brand?
“Mya! An icon of my youth lol. She wore a miSimBeachBabe in a video shoot, then she wore custom outfits for her Australia/New Zealand tour in 2016. “
How important is Instagram to your brand?
“Extremely. Almost as soon as I post a photo on my personal or brand page, I get an email or DM about said item I’ve shared, with someone asking to place an order. Truly an amazing platform for entrepreneurs. It allows the audience to see how you want to present your brand to them. “
What is your summer holiday soundtrack?
“Hard Drive by Shenseea lol and Wasn’t Looking by Eliza. I’m loving “A Colours Show” playlist on youtube as well. “
What differentiates your brand from others in the market?
“The prints I choose and the style swimwear I design. I look at trends, but alter them to be a bit more flattering for more/most body types. I find persons love my brand because they feel confident in the suits they buy. “
How much influence of Jamaica is there in your style and how much are you inspired by Jamaica?
“Holeeep! I love vibrant colours, and Jamaica is one of the most vibrant countries on Earth. I try to think to be practical in my design. Jamaica is also one of the most ethnically diverse places and I want to cater to JAMAICA, by designing inclusively for persons with all kinda of body types, shapes and skin tones. “
What is your top travel destination?
“I love the Caribbean because it is home. But Greece and Thailand are at the top of my to go list! “
Any advice to women who aspire to become entrepreneurs?
“SO cliche, but don’t stop. Never give up. Push push push. I always remind myself that passion propels purpose. And I use that to push myself, telling myself that this is my passion and it is my I should use it to fulfill my goal and dreams, my purpose. On a less philosophical note, I’d say to just go for it and experiment! Shadow your peers doing the same thing and mentors, or leaders in the industry you’re interested in. There is no greater teacher than experience and I am proof of that. I’ve never been taught how to sew, all that I know for design and production is innate and has been garnered over time by just winging it and learning from my mistakes, using those mistakes to propel me to where I am today. Perseverance and patience is vital and rewarding.”
