Brands We Love: Beach Riot

Beach Riot swimwear has effortlessly blended fashion and comfort, which is why it’s the first thing in our beach getaway kits…

Nicole Hanriot, a Southern girl transplanted to the sunny California beach town of Newport, knows a thing of two about swim. From hanging by the water in her youth to working for swimwear brand Tavik, it was only a matter of time before Nicole broke off to create something of her own. A designer, a mom, an entrepreneur, she is a true inspiration and we couldn’t wait to ask her a few of her secrets: 

What is your fondest memory of growing up in Newport Beach?

I grew up my younger years in the south and moved to Newport in middle school. Some of my favorite memories growing up in Newport consist of Summer bonfires by the beach, Duffy rides on the harbor and summer beach holidays like the 4th of July!

Tell us about action sports and your internship there.

Growing up in Newport Beach, we are surrounded by action sports brands. One of my favorites in high school was Volcom. In college I interned in the sales department and then got a job in retail at their flagship LA store! It was so much fun!

What compelled you to pursue design and start your own brand?

In college my final project was to design a swim collection, each student was assigned a different category. It must have been fate because I feel in love with creating swim and started to plan my path to launching my own line.

Most challenging part of striking it on your own?

Building the perfect team.

Best advice to someone starting her/his own brand?

Make sure to have a plan. I started with a business plan and it really helped map out my goals and budgets.

Your favorite Beach Riot swimsuit?

Right now it’s the Mia one piece. I have a thing for anything leopard.

Your expansion into clothing & sport — how did it come about? Any further expansions on the horizon?

It just felt like the next step in my vision and goals for the brand. I love taking elements from our swim collection and combining them into my Sport Riot designs.

If you were asked to start a beach riot, describe what it would look like.

Love this question — no one has ever asked me this! It would be something similar to a festival in the desert but a warm sunny beach, music, friends and sunshine!

Favorite thing about the West Coast – is it the best coast?

Both are different and I am lucky to have experienced them each. However, there is no questions west coast is the best coast. California has so much to offer — from relaxing on the beach, to wine-tasting in Napa, to watching the snow fall from a cozy cabin in the mountains. Also, each beach town up and down the coast has a distinct vibe and energy and it’s fun to experience..

+Shop all Beach Riot on FP.com here.

Follow Patry on Instagram.