A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz: From Red Carpet to Beach Patrol
For years, A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz has been known for its red-carpet evening gowns and dresses worn by celebs and noncelebs alike.
Now, A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz is venturing into the swim world with its new collection of bathing suits, which are as contemporary as its trendy dresses.
The new line is a collaboration among Schwartz; his business partner, Armand Marciano; and Bluewater Design Group, headed up by Howie Greller. Bluewater Design, a subsidiary of Apparel Ventures in Gardena, Calif., has several licenses to produce designer swimwear. The company recently launched the Trina Turk Swim and Spa Collection with Los Angeles designer Trina Turk.
Greller and Schwartz had been talking for years about the idea of a new swimwear line. “We approached them because we felt that the name would be a legitimate name for swimwear,” Greller said, noting that A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz has a strong national brand recognition among retail buyers. So in March, Bluewater Design got the green light and a licensing agreement to make A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz, now selling in stores such as Everything But Water and Diane’s.
The Bluewater design team puts the line together with Schwartz, who is constantly scouting the predominant trends in the fashion world.
The current swimwear collection is divided into three categories: “Tribal,” “Island Romantic” and “Art Studio.”
“Tribal” is filled with earthy tones such as brown, olive, paprika and teal. “Island Romantic” is more feminine with floral and paisley prints and touches of ruffles. “Art Studio” uses a paint-splash motif in primary colors to express a more bohemian feel.
About 90 percent of the line consists of two-piece suits that have more coverage than the average European- or Brazilianstyle suit. Tops and bottoms sell separately, wholesaling for about $30. Circular-knit microfibers made of nylon and Lycra are used in the swimwear line. All original-print fabric comes from the United States or Canada, and suits are manufactured in the United States or in the company’s two factories in Mexico.
For more information, call the showroom at (212) 221-6152. —Deborah Belgum
