Mi Ola

Mi Ola

2014 WATERWEAR

Mi Ola: Swimwear With a Pura Vida Sensibility

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Mi Ola

Swimwear designer Helena Fogarty has about 15 years of fashion experience under her belt and has worked for top brands such as Chanel, Ferragamo and Zac Posen, as well as Harper’s Bazaar.

Nearly five years ago, she left her New York fashion life and moved to Costa Rica to surf every day. “Once I was in the water being active, I needed great swimwear that was sexy, high quality and functional. I couldn’t find any,” Fogarty said. “The industry has great brands making beautiful, amazing suits that are very stylish and high quality. The industry also has wonderful functional suits, which often sacrifice style.” Fogarty’s swim collection, Mi Ola, brings style, quality and functionality together—and each style is wave-tested and surfer-approved.

All of the suits are made in New York from a high-quality, durable, 80/20 nylon/spandex blend for the solid suits containing a UPF50. “I’ve tested all the fabrics in saltwater and chlorine to make sure the color stays. We self-line, which makes for a more sturdy and substantial garment,” Fogarty said. Even the hardware, which is made in Rhode Island, is stress tested by surfers. The metal rings are molded out of brass so they won’t tarnish or leave residue.

The colorways are vibrant and colorful but not too ostentatious. All of the prints are exclusive to Mi Ola with new designs chosen for each season. “I love a great palm print, but it’s hard finding one that’s not kitschy. We have other prints in our [2014] collection which are inspired by jellyfish, bones, feathers and more—in a beautiful way,” Fogarty said.

The tops and rashguards often have a double-back tie, offering extra support. The bottoms have a special gripper elastic to hold the suit in around the waist.

Bottoms wholesale for $34, tops are $38, and rashguards are $48.

Diane’s Beachwear in Huntington Beach, Calif., and Palm Springs, Calif., carried the 2013 collection, and the current collection is available at the company’s website (www.mi-ola.com).