Swimwear design is such a delicate and puzzling art form so much so that it requires a keen eye and an almost scientific curiosity. Most of us might not realize the work that goes into creating a two-piece but one woman is reminding us of that, and her name is Desiree D’Aguiar, Founder of swimwear line Winfred Taylor.

Being an exceptionally talented Toronto-based designer with roots tracing back to Guyana; Her passion for fashion, art, and her unique heritage has seamlessly converged in her luxury swimwear designs. Desiree’s creations embody sensuality, featuring alluring cuts, reversible designs, and collaborative textile creations. Each piece of swimwear is meticulously crafted, resulting in one-of-a-kind designs that are destined to make a lasting impression.

Below, D’Aguiar shares exactly what goes into creating a Winfred and Taylor ensemble, plus some inspiring life anecdotes along the way.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you ventured into the world of swimwear design?

Design has always been a passion of mine. From a young girl, I loved learning, creating, and pulling ideas from my mind into reality which always gives me the utmost joy. I took that passion into my secondary education, correcting and building on my foundation of clothing design.. but I still craved something more. Finally, at the end of my course, we learned swimwear design and I was instantly hooked. The technical aspects of the fabrics, how the fabrics interacted with the body and water, and how to sew the fabric properly really pushed me in a way that interested me as opposed to frustrated me. At the base of it all, I am an island girl who LOVES a bikini that can stand out while allowing the wearer to actually swim, thus Winifred Taylor was born.

What is the inspiration behind Winfred Taylor and the story behind the brand name?

Reversible swimwear and small collections became the ethos of Winifred Taylor and also the meaning behind the name. Winifred D’Aguiar, D’Aguiar’s grandmother, was a chic Guyanese woman with an impeccable style. A reminder to keep things chic and sexy. Sidney Taylor, D’Aguiar’s traveling Bahamian grandfather who mastered the ability to pack light and always have options, he always managed to look good. The name Winifred Taylor is a reminder to keep collections sexy, chic, reversible, interchangeable, and small.

What are some challenges and triumphs you’ve faced as a swimwear designer and business owner?

As a small self-funded company, it has been hard to keep going, to keep inspired. I work full-time to fund my dream and it leaves little room to bask and find inspiration, but when my fire is lit I am able to push through and create work that has evolved over time. Some triumphs were my first pop-up shop. Winifred Taylor being published on Bustle.com, Yahoo, and various publications that really told me Winifred Taylor is in rooms that I don’t even know about. I am always blessed to be acknowledged by my peers in the islands! being featured on the Explore Bahamas page was a highlight, and now in Palmtree blessed.

What are some tips or advice for aspiring designers looking to start their own swimwear line?

Create your vision, figure out how to fund it, build a team, and take notes

Are there any upcoming collections, collaborations, or exciting projects you’d like to share?

I am working on getting to Miami swim week! pray for your girl it has been a ride, but it is a goal of mine. I’ll be releasing the new look I’ve been working on, as well as some new things with a little more color, maybe some sleeves. You’ll have to wait and see! if you’re reading this here’s a discount code for 15% off your next purchase with code PALMTREE