StyleNest interviews Heidi Gosman, co-founder of luxury swimwear label Heidi Klein. 

Since launching the luxury swimwear label with friend and business partner, Penny Klein, Heidi Klein has gone from strength to strength and is now seen as one of the world’s premium travelwear brands. Stocking everything from bikinis to one-pieces, kaftans to sun hats; it really is the one-stop shop for the stylish traveller. 

We met up with stylish mum and Heidi Klein co-founder Heidi Gosman to talk bikinis, beaches and business.

You co-founded luxury swimwear brand Heidi Klein; tell us about that and what it was like to start up your own business?

I was about to go away on holiday to the Maldives; it was the middle of February and couldn’t find a bikini anywhere. I thought how great would it be to open a one-stop holiday shop where you could get everything you needed all year round.

What is it about swimwear that you love so much?

I love the confidence it brings, knowing that you’re wearing next to nothing but you look gorgeous. There’s also something very peaceful and relaxing about swimwear, the link it has with luxury and holiday and gorgeous weather.

What are your top tips for holiday packing?

It’s best to plan your outfits before you go, we’ve all fallen victim to over-packing and excess baggage costs. Choose three or four bikinis and pair them with versatile cover-ups like a light kaftan to throw on at the beach and a couple of mini dresses that will take you from day to evening.  Don’t forget one gorgeous maxi dress for that special evening.

Where’s your favourite place to go on holiday?

The island of Mustique is my absolute favourite, it’s so peaceful and romantic.  There’s a private villa attached to The Cotton House Hotel, it’s so intimate with views across the ocean and a lovely spa that offers a great post-flight massage. The island has so much to offer from horseback riding, to sunset cocktails at Basils Bar.

Beach or poolside?

Can I choose both? Bare feet in the sand is such a fabulous feeling, but so is sitting on a sun lounger with a good book and a cocktail.  I love going to the beach with my kids and watching them jump around in the sea.

Describe your everyday style.

I like muted colours, lots of beige and white in classic cuts.  I love a good, crisp white shirt.  Summer brings out my nautical style; you can never have enough Bretons.

Any top tips for women who may feel self-conscious on the beach but still want to get in a swimsuit?

Finding the perfect swimwear can be a hard task, pairing something with support and comfort with style and trends.  Choose something that suits your natural shape and don’t try to hide or mask areas you don’t like but enhance areas you do like.

How do you accessorise your holiday look?

I don’t travel anywhere without my wide-brimmed hat and a pair of oversized sunglasses. I love the whole 60’s glamour look and sun protection is so important.  There’s no need to pack lots of jewellery, just take a couple of pieces that will lift an outfit from day to evening.  You’d be surprised at how versatile your holiday wardrobe can be just by adding a couple of bangles or a long necklace.

Any advice beauty-wise for looking great on the beach?

Keep it simple, it’s all about the pre-holiday prep. As long as you’re buffed and fuzz free all you need is a good SPF to lather on your skin to keep it moisturised and supple. Finish off with waterproof mascara and a sweep of something shimmery like Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Brick.

What’s on your travel itinerary?

I like seeing a country before it wakes up so I always try to go on an early morning walk or run which is great for combatting jet lag. Going to local markets is one of my favourite things to do, I get tons of inspiration and it’s always a joy to try out fresh local cuisine.  My children are born for the water so family beach days are a must.

Bikini or swimsuit?

Lots of bikinis and a one piece for swimming.

What can Heidi Klein fans expect to see later this year? What are going to be the looks for catching some winter sun?

Vibrant animal prints are going to be huge, so we have lots coming in store and I’ve fallen in love with stone detailing so watch this space.  We’ve also taken the classic nautical up a notch and have a new capsule of brights in the pipeline.

Any top tips on how to start up your own business? What are the top three things to think about?

You need to have passion, be open to criticism and don’t be afraid to share your ideas. Enjoy it.

What advice would you give to women when holiday shopping?

A padded triangle shape will boost a smaller bust as well as providing shape and support, while a bandeau style will not only support but add balance to square shoulders.  A larger bust should opt for our D-G range, which provide the best support and uplift with underwired cups, thick halter ties and power mesh fabric to prevent stretching.

You’ve also branched out into menswear. How can we get our men to look stylish on the beach?

Long, classic style boardshorts are my favourite.

And for kids, any tips on how to dress them comfortably, cute and safe from the sun on the beach? 

Invest in a rash vest from Sunuva. They are super cute and will protect your little one from the harsh sun.  Make sure you top up their SPF more often than you do your own.

Who’s your style icon?

A lot of my inspiration comes from the iconic glamour girls of the 60s, Brigitte Bardot, Grace Kelly, Sophia Loren.  They are all beautiful, curvy and paved the way for swimwear style.

For a roundup of the what to wear on the beach this summer, click here.