Can you tell us about the founding of Matia Beachwear and the inspiration behind its beginning?

I've always had a passion for fashion, especially swimwear and lingerie, and the desire to start my own business. However, I never envisioned launching a swimwear label initially. As a devoted surfer spending ample time by the sea, I was craving a specific style that was hard to get your hands on in Europe at the time. Essentially, Matia was born out of my personal quest for a fashion aesthetic that was missing by that time.

Years ago, when I searched for a more cheeky swimwear made from recycled materials, I found myself having to order from overseas, which was both inconvenient and costly due to shipping and return expenses. This gap in the market inspired the creation of Matia. I envisioned swimwear that exuded timeless elegance with a touch of 90s flair, all while being crafted in a sustainable manner. I sought after bikinis that embodied enduring aesthetics, offered a more daring cut compared to the norm at the time, and, most importantly, were produced responsibly and sustainably. 

What have been and are the major challenges with starting your own brand?

Oh boy, where to start! My background in e-commerce was certainly a good foundation for starting Matia, but I quickly realized that there was a lot to learn and adapt to in the fashion industry. Trying to find the right team to produce our swimwear and growing without a big budget was probably the biggest challenge in the beginning.

However, I remained committed to sustainability from the outset, ensuring that every aspect of our production, from materials to labor conditions to packaging, upheld ethical standards. One of the biggest hurdles was finding the ideal manufacturing partner, and although we faced several changes in the early stages, we have established a fruitful relationship with a family-run factory in northern Portugal. Witnessing a shift in the fashion industry towards sustainability, and finding manufacturers who shared our values, has been incredibly rewarding and affirming.

I'm incredibly grateful to have a team of like-minded individuals by my side, all dedicated to continuous improvement and giving their best. From our manufacturers to our in-house photographer and warehouse team, everyone plays a vital role in bringing Matia Beachwear to life.

Lukas, my partner, not only serves as our main campaign photographer but also provides invaluable support with the technical aspects of running an online business. Meanwhile, my sister, Dani, oversees operations at our warehouse in Germany, ensuring smooth logistics and customer satisfaction. And Monica, she ensures smooth production and quality control with her incredible talent and problem-solving skills. Together, we form a cohesive unit, united by our passion for excellence and shared vision for the brand. I've learned, cried, laughed and sweated so much since launching Matia which has been mind-blowing and sharing this with people who align with your visions is Key to me.

Why Matia? What inspired the choice of this name for the company?

My name is Martina but no one ever calls me this. I cannot even remember that my Mom or Dad ever called me Martina. MATIA it is a short version of MARTINA and reflects that label's identity - mine ;) 

Matia Beachwear is known for its minimalist colors, flattering shapes, and unique pieces. Can you discuss the design philosophy behind these aspects and how they contribute to the brand's identity?

As a child of the 80s and 90s, I was deeply influenced by the fashion of that era, particularly by the chic and elegant styles I admired in my mother's closet and among her friends. The high cuts, timeless aesthetics, and impeccable silhouettes of that time left a lasting impression on me and continue to inspire my work today. What captivates me most is the versatility inherent in those designs, offering endless possibilities for creativity and expression, both for myself and for my customers.

My passion lies in creating swimwear that not only reflects the essence of those iconic eras but also empowers women to feel confident, special, and authentic in their own skin. I believe that every woman deserves to feel beautiful and comfortable in what she wears, and that's why I pour my heart and soul into designing pieces that enhance the natural curves of the female body, elegantly elongate the leg line, and prioritize comfort above all else.

Ultimately, I aim to evoke a sense of nostalgia while celebrating the modern woman, her individuality, and her unique sense of style. By infusing each garment with a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary flair, I hope to offer my customers not just swimwear, but a means of expressing their true selves and embracing their inner beauty.

Are there any specific beach destinations or cultures that influence your designs?

I love the chic of the European summer. The aesthetics of the Mediterranean, Portofino on the Ligurian coast, which has become a favorite hideaway for me, and the glamorous lifestyle of the Riviera. And yet it is the Algarve coast, my beloved home, where creativity thrives amidst its picturesque beauty.

My design journey draws from diverse influences, including vintage lingerie and swimwear, and the iconic styles of Claudia Schiffer, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, and Naomi Campbell just to name a view. Especially the timeless elegance of designers like Jil Sander, La Perla, YSL, and Karl Lagerfeld's Chanel further shapes my creative process.

You use recycled and sustainable materials for your swimsuits, why was this important for you when starting Matia?

Let's face it: The most sustainable garment is the one not made. And that is something people need to be aware of. Being sustainable wasn't just an option for me from day one, it was a commitment.

That's why we're committed to using recycled polyester and other sustainable materials throughout our entire supply chain, constantly seeking ways to enhance our environmental footprint. When I launched the first swimwear collection, sourcing the ideal recycled materials in Europe was a challenge. Yet, my dedication to quality led me to collaborate closely with material manufacturers. Today, I'm proud to say that we utilize the highest quality recycled swimwear fabrics, ensuring impeccable fit, comfort, and style in every color. All our fabrics are crafted and manufactured in Italy, significantly shortening our supply chain and reducing our carbon footprint compared to other brands.

It's important to recognize that the fashion industry has a significant environmental impact. That's why we're committed to raising awareness about this issue and helping consumers understand the importance of ethically sourced, quality garments. While I understand that not everyone can afford the same, it's crucial to shift our mindset towards prioritizing quality over quantity. By making informed choices about the clothing we wear, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.

What do you enjoy most about being in the beachwear business?

Gosh, where to begin, but one of the most incredible aspects of this journey has been the people I've encountered along the way. It's truly inspiring to see so many wonderful individuals out there, supporting each other and sharing a similar mindset. 

Despite the demands of running MATIA and being fully immersed in daily operations, I find myself constantly energized by the passion for what I do. While it may mean sacrificing life, zero vacations and having a mind that's 24/7 focused on the business is challenging and exhausting - but I would do it over and over again. 

There's something profoundly satisfying about seeing strangers light up with joy as they enjoy the fruits of my labor. It's a validation of all the hard work and dedication that goes into creating something meaningful. Their appreciation fuels my passion and drives me to continue pushing boundaries and striving for excellence in everything I do.

Photography by Lukas Budimaier.