If you’re a vacationer who prefers sand over snow, then your sunny style philosophy is probably a simple one: shop for swimwear first, and figure everything else out later. Your priority is sunning by the pool, anyway—so an iconic swimsuit that can double for play and… well… more play is essential. And no one knows swim better than Gabi Gregg (AKA Gabi Fresh), the iconic curvy style influencer known for popularizing the term “fatkini” and selling out collections in hours flat.
On April 18, Gabi dropped Opulent Oasis, part two of her collection with Eloquii. And the looks are way too good to be considered a mirage. Read ahead to find out more about the inspiration behind the collaboration, the inspiration behind the collection and a few tips for finding your best swim fit from Gregg and Yesenia Torres, creative director at Eloquii.
Gabi Fresh Swim x ELOQUII
Asymmetrical Neckline Bikini Top & High Waisted Bikini Bottom
Price: $80 each
EBONY: Tell us the inspiration behind this collection.
Yesenia Torres: The Opulent Oasis collection is inspired by architectural fluidity and a renewed desire to dress up. Metallics, sequins and sheers translate to one-of-a-kind wearable elegance. This collection features standout pieces including an ultra-glam gold cover-up with exaggerated shirring, a sheer sequin cover-up that shimmers in the sun, a silver metallic bikini and a one-piece with luxe chain embellishment.
How can you style this collection outside of the pool?
Gabi Fresh: I love to style my swimwear with a coordinating cover-up. These pieces are such a big part of my personal wardrobe. Being able to design kaftans, pants and dresses to go with each suit was one of my favorite parts of working with ELOQUI—they’re a core part of the collection. Just add shoes and jewelry, and you’re ready to take any of the looks from the beach or pool to dinner and drinks.
Gabi Fresh Swim x ELOQUII
Dramatic Pleated Coverup Maxi Dress
Price: $150
Please share a few pointers for finding the right fit for swimwear, especially when you don’t have access to a dressing room.
Torres: Fit is the number one barrier for the plus-size customer as a point of purchase. This collection was designed intentionally with various silhouettes and styles so that everyone can find something right for them. The bikinis and one-pieces are crafted with an ultra-stretchy blend of nylon and spandex fabric designed to look and feel amazing on all bodies. Each suit also has a coordinating kaftan or cover up that completes the look—for a full pool or beach day moment.
This collection was inspired by a renewed desire to dress up, which seems to be a widespread feeling. What keeps you motivated to get dressy when you don’t feel like it? How can someone break out of a style slump?
Gabi Fresh: Style slumps can be so real. Looking for inspiration in magazines, runways or even Pinterest can reignite [your]love for fashion. Spotting a really special piece while shopping can also get creative ideas flowing. And making special plans with friends to give myself a reason to dress up is one of my favorite ways to force myself to dress up—turning it into a group thing is always fun!
Gabi Fresh Swim x ELOQUII
Wrap Detail Mesh Swimsuit
Price: $150
What are some of the most popular swim styles that fly off the shelves at ELOQUII? Why do you think clients are drawn to these styles?
Torres: Our customers love a statement piece. Bright colors, bold and vibrant patterns, anything that stands out, they are purchasing. Something Gabi and I both aligned on when designing this collection was our desire to create head-turning pieces for our customers, making them feel the best way possible.
