Meet Xiomara Arroyo | Owner and Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Xiomara Arroyo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Xiomara, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It was during the COVID lockdown that I decided to start researching for a Swimwear line. My family and I really spent a lot of time outside and in the pool in our swimsuits, which made me realize the options I wanted weren’t always available. I like to purchase different sizes for a top and bottom and that isn’t always an option or the quality wasn’t great. I wanted better options, and I have always loved having multiple pieces living in Miami where our weather is ideal for yearlong swimwear fashion.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I graduated from Florida International University with a BS in Hospitality Management. After graduating I didn’t continue to work in the industry to focus on my family which has been my pride and joy. As we moved around due to my husband’s career in profesional sports I’ve been fortunate to meet different cultures and travel the world. In 2021, I launched Quisqueya Swimwear, despite having little experience. Through the star up the journey involved teaching myself the intricacies of building a swimwear line. Some of my challenges were sourcing materials and manufacturing, but I’ve learned to choose wisely and create a product that I’m passionate about. Through my brand, Quisqueya Swimwear, Im proud to represent my Latina heritage. One of my goals is to showcase the cultural influences from my Dominican background, our love for music, food, family and celebration of life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This is an interesting question or questions. I was born and raised in Miami but have lived in many different places over the years since college and always counted the days till returning home. Home is where the heart is! It’s my comfort place. When my best friend comes to visit we definitely will go for brunch to The little hen. It’s a such a cute spot with good food. Then take our time walking the shops around midtown and probably spend the rest of the day pool side at home. I would take her to dinner at Carbone in Miami Beach after a day out at South Beach soaking up the sun. We definitely spend some time in Coconut Grove one day starting with breakfast at Green Street and then pop in to a local favorite the Fashionista for some shopping. For an evening out we’d definitely hit Marion Miami for some great drinks and food. Also step out to Kiki on the River another night of fun and dancing. I really like Brickell City Center for a day of shopping. We could spend some time there with the variety of stores and then have a coffee break at Rodilla. Overall there is so much to do in Miami with the local sports and great restaurants. I don’t think we’ve made it yet to the Frost Museum which I hear is a must so that a place I think we should check out as a first for both.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Mary C, Vargas, Busyminds at work. She really helped me to complete my vision. Mary Carmen supported me to follow through with my concept and in the end helped bring my vision to life.

Website: www.quisqueyaswimwear.com

Instagram: @quisqueyaswimwear_

Facebook: facebook.com/quisqueyaswimwear

Image Credits
Mariela A. Bastidas, Mariela A. Photography; Gonzalo Feo Photographer, Models: Shanice Deon @its_shaunice, Kareli Chavez @karelichavez_, Gabriella Arroyo @garroyo8, Owner: Xiomara Arroyo @xiomi_arroyo