We had the good fortune of connecting with Zoey Bovell and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Zoey, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My love for sewing and understanding how clothes are crafted has always been a part of me. But Zoey’s Bikinis was born out of a personal need—finding swimwear that fit me perfectly was always a challenge. Living in Barbados, I wanted swimwear that not only complimented my body but also made me feel confident and beautiful. So, I started creating pieces for myself, experimenting with different designs until I found what felt right. It wasn’t long before my friends became my muses, and through their encouragement and feedback, Zoey’s Bikinis came to life. For me, it’s about creating swimwear that makes women feel confident and comfortable, with a little island magic woven in.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply rooted in how I perceive the world around me. I believe it’s the little moments that often hold the most significance, and I want my swimwear to be a part of those special experiences. Each piece is designed not just to be worn but to hold the memories of sun-soaked days, laughter shared with friends, and the joy of living in the moment.
The journey to where I am today has been anything but easy. Countless late nights filled with sewing, sketching, and pouring my heart into my designs have shaped my path. Each challenge has taught me valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of staying true to my vision. I’ve learned to embrace the process, to find beauty in the struggles, and to remain grateful for every step along the way.
What I’m most proud of is the connection I’ve built with my community through my brand. Knowing that my designs can make someone feel confident and beautiful is what drives me. I want Zoey’s Bikinis to reflect not just my passion for sewing and creating but also the love and inspiration I draw from my surroundings.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to give them the ultimate week-long adventure on the east coast of Barbados. We’d definitely stay somewhere along the coast to catch the breathtaking sunrises. Our days would begin with hiking and sightseeing, followed by relaxing beach days under the sun—complete with endless swimming and an epic tan! In the evenings, we’d explore local bars and restaurants, making sure to visit The View Bar for its unbeatable scenery. Nights would be spent gathered around bonfires, sharing stories and laughter as we create unforgettable memories. This week would be all about embracing the beauty of the island and savouring every moment together.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I’ve been incredibly lucky to be surrounded by supportive friends and the vibrant energy of living on an island like Barbados. My friends, who have been my muses and cheerleaders, played such a big part in helping me shape Zoey’s Bikinis. From giving feedback to modeling my designs, they’ve always been there to push me forward. Also, being in such a beautiful place has definitely inspired me—Barbados has a way of fueling creativity and reminding me to appreciate the little moments. So, I’d like to give a big shoutout to my circle of friends and the island life that keeps me inspired every day.
Website: https://zoeysbikinis.com
Instagram: @zoeysbikinis
Image Credits
Photography by: Jamar Silva @lextookit