Last Wednesday, NYC skies opened up in a most relentless way. After 24 hours of straight downpour and just when you thought it couldn’t get worse, the sun broke through and Thursday/Friday were some of the most beautiful days New Yorkers have seen yet this year.
And we came out of the woodwork. I headed straight to Union Square where Journelle’s “Grey Lady” Airstream had set up its “Swim Shop,” chock full of the best curated spring styles. My mind was filled with visions of lounging by the pool in the Hamptons and gallivanting on the beaches of Lisbon (my much-anticipated summer holiday). In true Journelle style, all the chicest swim pieces were represented: Tori Praver, Eberjey and one of my favorites, Zinke.
Zinke founders (and sisters) Arin Robinson and Jessie Zinke launched their debut lingerie collection in 2009. Two years later, they began offering swim options that still follow their fresh, mix-and-match approach to luxurious little things. I caught up with the sisters to learn more about what I should be rocking come warm weather (finally!).
Julie Bensman: Zinke began as a company primarily specializing in lingerie. What made you want to take the leap to swim?
Arin Robinson: Jessie’s application of color and prints was very unique to the lingerie world. We heard over and over again, “I wish this was a swimsuit.” When we began considering entering the swim market, there was a void in the market that we thought we could fill – by amplifying fashion while maintaining the function of swimwear.
JB: Who is the Zinke girl?
Jessie Zinke: Playful, feminine and full of life!
JB: What are some of your favorite swim pieces for Spring 2014 and why?
JZ: I love the Sienna romper — it’s so versatile. It snaps at the hem so you can wear it as a romper, dress or even a top.
JB: It seems the one-piece has been making a comeback as of late. When and where is a one-piece most appropriate?
JZ: As long as you feel comfortable wearing a one-piece, it’s always appropriate. One-pieces aren’t just for the mommy crowd anymore — they’re fashionable for any age.
AR: A one-piece is especially cute with a high-waisted short…We believe in mixing and matching — you can create a lot of different outfits from just a few bottom and top options.
JB: When shopping for swim, always remember _______?
JZ: The more fabric covering your bum, the wider it looks. Sometimes, less is more (or better!).
JB: Where are your personal favorite places to rock a bathing suit (beach, pool, vacation destination)?
JZ: The beach! I love any beach with clear warm water and white sand: Miami and Turks & Caicos are two of my favorite spots.
JB: What are your personal and professional plans this summer?
JZ: We’ll be showing at Cabana during Miami Swim Week in July. I’m hoping to take a beach vacation this summer, but I’m a last-minute planner so I haven’t decided on the destination yet.
