The Fashion Law Edit Presents: Oceanus Swimwear

Hannah Attalah wanted to create a brand that stood for more than just swimwear, with a focus on empowering women to feel more body confident and she’s done just that with Oceanus Swimwear. We caught up with Hannah to find out how she started the brand, tips for those wanting to create their own brand and so much more.

Credit: Oceanus Swimwear

TFLE: Before the launch of Oceanus Swimwear, did you study any fashion related courses and if so, how did this contribute to building your brand?

Hannah: I studied fashion and business and worked for designers before launching Oceanus, this helped navigate the brand’s signature and my love for textiles.

TFLE: Having noticed that there was a gap in the market for 'fashion led swimwear', what steps did you take to make sure that you took advantage of that gap? 

Hannah: I wanted to create something special with a statement as there wasn’t anything currently like this on the market we use a lot of hand embroidery which is something we considered to be more fashion and strong colour combinations in our designs. 

Credit: Oceanus Swimwear

TFLE: With regards to the business and legal side of your swimwear line, how did/do you make sure that you are business and legally sound? Do you have a team of business/legal experts who take care of your business? 

Hannah: I have a degree in business we mostly do everything ourselves, but will seek advice if there is something we haven’t had experience in yet! I always face new challenges as a young start up so it’s good to have people to go to for advice. 

TFLE: There has been a huge amount of increase whereby big brands/designers are copying pieces and designs from smaller brands/designers. What are your thoughts on this? Have you experienced other brands/designers copying your pieces and how have you handled the issues? 

Hannah: Not directly, I think it’s a shame this happens to emerging designers but it’s good there’s platforms like Diet Prada on Instagram who now call this out. 

Credit: Diet Prada

TFLE: With many young people like yourself starting their own businesses in the fashion industry, what advice would you give to them in terms of starting out, funding, target audience etc.?

Hannah: I would say plan as much as possible, it helps but also don’t be afraid to take some risks and put things out to the market. It’s good to also gage feedback quite early so try and do a pop up event! 

Credit: Oceanus Swimwear

TFLE: What has been some of your best moments since starting Oceanus Swimwear and how have you overcome some of your trials? 

Hannah: Probably when Vogue wrote an article on Oceanus swimwear earlier this year, it was a highlight for me and great to see Oceanus has been recognised.

Credit: Oceanus Swimwear | Vogue

TFLE: What can we expect from Oceanus Swimwear in the future? 

Hannah: There is a new collection out soon and a fashion film! More 80’s statement, some great prints also in the next collection and embroidery. 

Credit: Oceanus Swimwear

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Interviewing Anej Sosic: The Fashion Industry, Body Image and the ‘Too Thin’ Model Laws