Our Swininista Journey

ANDRÉA BERNHOLTZ

Inspired by a passion for empowering women and a commitment to environmental sustainability,
Andréa Bernholtz founded DRAYA By Swiminista with a mission to instill confidence in women,
while simultaneously minimizing the ecological impact of swimwear. Embracing an eco-conscious
approach, Andréa utilizes luxurious recycled fabrics, made in ethical factories using sustainable
practices, for most of the collections, leaving a softer footprint on the planet.


Andréa is no stranger to fashion and has been in the industry for decades. Her first fashion line,
Rock & Republic, was a celebrity-favorite brand that revolutionized the denim industry through
innovative fit technology. Transforming it into a comprehensive lifestyle brand, she expanded the
brand to include a runway collection, cosmetics, and shoes. Notably, her designs captured the
attention of A-list celebrities, including Victoria Beckham, who trusted Rock & Republic to be her
first brand collaboration partner.


Growing up between Hawaii and California, designing resort and swimwear was the next logical
step in her fashion journey. Now, her focus is on chic, attainable luxury that you will find in every
detail of the brand’s name, aptly derived from her nickname, DRAYA.


DRAYA by Swiminista can be found around the world in five-star luxury resorts as well as select
fine boutiques. Shop the most current collections at SHOPDRAYA.COM.

Swiminista

THE VISION

While vacationing in Mexico, Andréa and her friend Jill found themselves complaining about the same thing - the limited and problematic swimwear options available to them. They agreed that they both grappled with swimsuits that lacked proper support and didn't stay in place, proving unsuitable for activities like chasing children or enjoying sophisticated vacations around the world. 

These frustrations prompted Andréa to delve deeper into the issue by conversing with other women. Through these discussions, she identified a significant gap in the market. It became apparent that she, like many others, had never come across a swimsuit that provided the perfect fit and combined chic and sexy aesthetics with the support comparable to her favorite bra. Andréa's idea was then born, and she went on a quest to design swimwear that solved the most common problems.