OCIN offers multipurpose swimwear from recyclables
Searching for the perfect swimsuit can sometimes feel like an impossible feat. Some are too skimpy, while others are too boring — and still others just don’t fit.
A new Vancouver swimwear brand, OCIN, is looking to take the stress out of shopping for a swimsuit by offering chic, minimalist styles for men and women that also happen to offer a eco-conscious element.
We caught up with Courtney Chew, the founder of the brand, to chat about swimwear, respecting the ocean and what makes her brand unique in a sea of other swimwear options.
Q For those who aren’t familiar, what is OCIN?
A OCIN is a lifestyle brand and men’s and women’s swim line. But at our core, we exist to connect human beings to our most open, free and conscious selves for our collective future. We feel that if people live into a global openness, there will be more compassion, awareness and general respect that will allow us to work together and do some amazing good for our communities, our Earth and our oceans.
Q Is there a story behind the name?
A The name actually has a personal connection to me — it’s mine and my sister’s name, backwards. NICO. She’s been such a huge support from the very beginning, and after brainstorming so many different ideas, combinations and potential names every day for a month straight, when I finally wrote this one down, it just clicked, and felt perfect.
But the name also represents our purpose as a brand. OCIN is pronounced “ocean,” which we have a strong connection to. To us, the ocean is a symbol of this sense of freedom and limitlessness that we mentioned above, and it also needs our protection.
Q What makes it different from other brands?
A Something that I’ve taken away from my 12 years in the industry is that when brands have a true commitment to and understanding of their purpose, while remaining flexible to learn and innovate, that’s when they see success. Our products are all made with recycled polyester and nylon yarns. And we choose one organization each year to donate partial proceeds to — this year it’s Surfrider Foundation.
Q Where are the pieces designed/made?
A I design it in Vancouver, and we work closely with our manufacturing partners overseas in China.
Q What inspires the designs?
A Versatility is one. I want people to be able to wear these in and out of the water. And for guys, all my shorts are lined to provide extra comfort and support so that they can go from the gym to the surf or to grab food. A clean and elevated esthetic is another.
Q What is the price range for OCIN products?
A $115 to $185 CAD for Chapter I.
Q And where can people check them out?
A Currently you can check out all the styles online at OCIN.CO.