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SOME LIKE IT HOT

Written by Magaly Fuentes - Friday, 07 May 2010

NIKSTER

Founded in 2007 by Nikki Sayavanh, San Diego-based Nikster shows off the sexier side of green. An archetypal California girl in that she loves the beach and outdoor fun in the sun, Sayavanh designs swimwear collections that encompass sex appeal, adventure, beauty, and environmental consciousness. With a non-traditional education built on research materials, sewing workshops, textile surface design courses, and many mentors along the way, Sayavanh decided to blend her love for art, healthy living, travel, and her fascination with sea turtles to create swim apparel which brilliantly reflects her passion for all of these things.

NIKSTER BY JOHN TIFFIN

As she embarked on a prolific journey, there were challenges to overcome. With traditional swimwear fabrications consisting of non-sustainable materials such as lycra and spandex, this green girl had a tough time finding materials that would demonstrate her green values. Another obstacle to overcome was in finding suppliers to provide materials in smaller quantities for her blooming brand, as opposed to the massive orders of most large conglomerates.

Despite the challenges, Sayavanh marched on toward her dream and has clearly reaffirmed the old adage stating “perseverance is the key to achieving your goals.” With a keen sense of style, Sayavanh designs swimsuits in an array of cuts to cater to different body types. Styles include Brazilian influenced bikinis and monokinis. The suits are soft, comfortable, stretchy and durable. Materials used include organic cotton, bamboo, soy, organic silk and recycled poly. Earthy tropical embellishments consist of coconut, bamboo, shells, pearls, stones, wood, and recycled metals. Some pieces are gently hand-finished with embroidery, macramé, or hand-painting.

NIKSTER BY JOHN TIFFIN

Stretching beyond the element of materials used to create the swimsuits, Nikster’s carbon footprint is further lightened through local production and the use of recycled materials for both price tags and packaging. Sayavanh says, “Giving back is a major part of Nikster.” Five percent of gross sales are donated to globally-responsible charities and organizations, such as ASUPMATOMA, focused on the protection of endangered sea turtles. Nikster also participates in beach clean-ups, tree planting projects, and other local charity events.

Nikki Sayavanh has traveled globally, markedly to most of the southern islands of Asia, to explore and gain a better understanding of other parts of the world. She finds inspiration in people, cultures, nature, colors, materials, and contemplation. Through Nikster, Sayavanh hopes to influence change and further spread a message of healthy living and environmental advocacy, all while showing off the sexier side of green. Future plans for Nikster involve expansion to beach apparel such as sun dresses, tops, wraps and pants, and moving distribution toward high end resorts, spas and boutiques.