Inspired by blissful childhood memories of summer beach trips and balmy vacations, our new limited edition collaborative collection pairs minnow's timeless pastel prints with our water-friendly shoes and accessories in styles for the family.
MEET THE COLLECTION
We’re long-time fans of minnow’s inspired approach to outfitting even the littlest beach lovers in quality swimwear with colorful, timeless style. Collaborating with them on a capsule collection of “Mommy & Me” shoes and accessories is a dream come true! Our durable, comfortable water shoes are made for days of play and adventure (no matter your age), and minnow’s sweetly refined pastel prints are an instant classic.
ABOUT THE PRINTS
A fresh, pastel-toned update on a nautical classic, the Powder Blue Stripe print is essential for giving your style a hint of subtle sophistication.
9 QUESTIONS WITH minnow FOUNDER MORGAN SMITH
We absolutely love minnow’s family-focused approach to design… it can be so tough to find swimwear for little ones that’s both durable and stylish! Can you tell us the brand’s origin story and what drew you to launch minnow?
We were on a home exchange for the summer in London—while an English family was living in our home in California, we were enjoying Europe. One weekend, we took a trip to the Amalfi coast, and before we left, I went on a hunt for a swimsuit for my 14-month-old son, Theo.
I remember feeling so disappointed by the lack of options out there. So I started thinking about where I found his swim trunks back home in California—they always seemed like a ‘find.’
There wasn't a consistent, classic brand I knew of that was dedicated to children’s swim. I envisioned a simple, clean design with a great fit that hit above the knee. As soon as we got home from our time abroad, I went straight to work and that’s when minnow's first style, the boardies, was born!
minnow stands apart in the children’s swimwear space thanks to the brand’s magic formula of darling silhouettes, clever design details, and gorgeous prints and palettes. What inspires minnow’s distinct aesthetic?
minnow embraces clean lines and simple details. The pieces are timeless yet fresh, playful and polished—everything I want my little ones to wear.
My whole philosophy on childrenswear is that I want children to look like children. When we look back on our special memories, I want to see designs that have stood the test of time.
Can you tell us more about minnow’s dedication to quality at all stages of production?
Every piece we make is thoughtfully designed to continuously meet the highest standards of quality. Since our launch in 2016, we’ve been committed to work with companies that also value high-quality workmanship and ethical production methods.
We work with factories that specialize in premium materials and the latest fabric innovation and sewing technology, allowing all our swim to be UPF 50+.
Sea Star Beachwear is thrilled to be among minnow’s lively roster of collaborators. What do you enjoy most about the creative collaborative process?
One of the best parts of collaborating with a company like Sea Star is definitely the creative process. I love working together to create a product that is truly special, fills a void in the market and is a beautiful representation of both brands. From initial conversations and selecting products and prints to finally seeing it in person—I’m in awe of the dedication and commitment of both brands in coming together to create such a special collection.
Which piece from our collaboration are you most excited about?
I love the espadrille. It’s so comfy and practical for where we live since we’re constantly at the beach.
If we took a peek in your beach bag, what would we find?
You can always count on me to carry a hat that has a tie strap, like this or this. Whether I’m chasing my children on the sand or it’s a windy day on the boat, the tie-on is a gamechanger. Also, chic sun protection!
My sunglasses, I’ll mix up classic & fun.
I love the super goop sunscreens for our entire family, in addition to a tinted moisturizer like this or this.
Beach toy or a fun game. Plenty of towels, these are a favorite. And snacks, of course!
Any favorite memories from time spent by the sea?
It’s hard to pick just one, so much of motherhood has been spent at the beach with all my children—whether at home or traveling. It’s the best playground (and the best place to bring about long naps. ;) The beach is a spot that everyone in the family genuinely loves.
What’s your go-to beach locale? Any shoreline destinations on your bucket list?
I have so many memories growing up at Three Arch Bay in Laguna Beach, California. Sullivan’s Island is my family’s favorite when we’re home in Charleston, South Carolina.
Our summer bucket list destination: the beaches of Portugal!
What’s next for minnow?
We just opened our second store in Palm Beach, Florida! We’re really enjoying how special it is to connect with the community and for new customers, and even long-time customers, to experience the brand and feel the product in person. The hope is to continue on with more retail opportunities and in-person experiences.
The minnow x Sea Star Beachwear Capsule Collection for Spring/Summer 2023 is available now—shop here. Visit minnow's website to view their collection of coordinated apparel for this collaboration.