Once you get to know Marysia Dobrzanska Reeves, it’s not hard to see why she has been so successful in the swimwear category. As a former ballerina and surfer, the Polish-born designer spent most of her upbringing wearing leotards and wetsuits. After attending the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in Los Angeles and working for Milly, Reeves utilized her expert knowledge of shape-wear to create a swimwear brand with a modern yet functional approach. Since launching in 2009, Marysia has become a favorite of Lupita Nyong’o and Gigi Hadid, for example, and is sold worldwide by retailers including Lane Crawford and Net-A-Porter. The designer now operates the company from her home in Venice, California with her husband and two daughters. While her scallop bikinis and one-pieces remain a signature, Dobrzanska Reeves  also has a full resort collection that includes ready-to-wear.

We caught up with the new CFDA Member to hear more about her inspiration and path to becoming a designer.

What attracted you to the fashion industry?

I was always interested in beautiful clothes and dressing up. I remember my mother making the effort to look beautiful and to buy fine clothing from our local dress shop in Poland. Fashion was a way for me to express my creativity.

Why did you decide to start your business?

I started the business after deciding against physical therapy school (at my then-fiancé’s urging) to instead enroll at FIDM in LA for a year-long design degree. After that, it became clear that swimwear would be my focus and I founded MARYSIA with my first collection in 2009.

Describe your brand in three words.  

Feminine, classic, luxury.

What inspires you?

Travel, beautiful destinations – from hotels to the various beachscapes to that feeling of packing for a special trip.

What sets you apart from other designers?

My focus on detail and quality. I am tireless about the small things and executing perfectly on the fine details of each garment. We are a self-funded, small family business and I’m involved in every single aspect of the business. I design each piece, pick the fabric and trims, and I fit my own pieces. I’m personally invested in making our clients feel and look beautiful!

Why did you want to be a part of the CFDA?

It’s been a dream of mine since founding the line. I had such a sense of accomplishment when I found out that I was accepted. It’s incredible to be a part of a cadre of incredible designers.

What do you hope to accomplish in your career?

I hope to see the success of my New York store continue… to open other locations…[and] slow and thoughtful growth for the brand and that our fans will continue to support the line!

Describe one career milestone.

My first Vogue.com review! That was magic!