The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2020 - Issue 27

bite swimwear designer, Fauzan. We happen to be in sync when it comes to designing swimwear.” They ensure that the factors of fit and comfort are met as well as how the material will act on the body when it’s wet. The siblings are inspired by other designers and brands such as French surf culture brand Vissla; Australian swimwear Rhythm, and Seafolly; clothing brand Rapanui as given by Yusree and Colombian swimwear and resort-wear brand Agua by Agua Bendita; Hawaiian clothing brand Acacia; and Amer- ican-based designer Victoria Beckham as given by Yasra. They don’t have a particular favourite model but Yusree revealed, “It would be very cool to see pro-surfer Bethany Hamilton in Kan- dumathi.” When asked how they prepare for photoshoots or a show, Yus- ree said, “Luckily, Kandumathi shoots are very productive, and fun when the shooting is over. Once the admin part is over, it’s more problem-solving.” Yasra finds preparing for photoshoots very enjoyable. “It is probably because of my love for filmmak- ing and being on set. I approach it as I would do a film. I love working with models, photographers, make-up artists, etc. As Yusree said, the photoshoots are always very fun!” In the process of sketching or constructing their designs, Yus- ree prefers to design while Yasra says they do not really have the typical sketch and then construct concept. “I decide the shape and fit of the swimsuit initially and then once we get the paint- ings from the artist, we start the design process. We figure out design placements, complementary colours, etc.” As a vibrant brand, colour is no issue, but fabric-wise they prefer to work with material made from recycled ocean plastic and nylon. To aspiring fashion designers, Yusree would advise “stay true to the art and keep focus” and Yasra would tell them, “My advice to anyone who wants to start a swimwear business is to pay attention to the female body and try not to focus too much on what other people are doing. Have a concrete idea and stick to it, and always rely on the people to work with you and trust your gut as well as the people you work with.” For future fashion goals, Yasra says, “I would like to be more environmentally conscious as a business. We are planning to start producing all our swimwear from recycled ocean plastic and recycled nylon.” https://kandumathi.com Images courtesy of Pop PR