Designer, Colleen Thompson was born in Durban, South Africa
and grew up on the beaches of South Florida. As a young girl, she spent countless hours in small, oceanfront boutiques searching
for the perfect bikini. This passion eventually led her to more than a decade-long career in the fashion and swimwear industries.
Realizing that no bikini incorporated all of the elements she so loved about fashion, Colleen became inspired to create a
line of her own. She loved the bright colors with pop, but also felt drawn to the subtle, more earthy tones. She found that
some bikini occasions were strictly for tanning, some were playful & sporty, some more ‘family-oriented’ and
some romantic. Finding a perfect-fitting AND DIFFERENT swimsuit for all of these daily life occasions became a little tricky
– not to mention costly!
“…The
power of accessories has just always amazed me! You can virtually change any outfit into something completely different –
just by changing your shoes, handbag & jewelry. I wanted a bikini that I could change up depending on the occasion or
even the mood I was in! I wanted to create a suit that women could customize…I wanted to bring out the designer in
all of us, inspiring and empowering the modern woman to show her own personal style and creative spirit. When it comes to
swimwear, how are we to TRULY be individuals? No doubt, there’s a little fashionista in all of us…so tell me
– what’s YOUR flavor?...”
Colleen Thompson, 2007
This exciting idea prompted Colleen to establish a partnership with Ann Tucker, a long-time friend and the
former president of a national specialty swimwear retailer. Bringing over fifteen years of experience to the table –
with an extensive career in fashion and swimwear, Ann joined Colleen to form their new company. With the credentials and experience
the pair shared, Bikini Flavors was born.
