Meet Our Fit Model & Friend, Kerry

Meet Our Fit Model & Friend, Kerry

Part of the early design process for Hermoza was working with a fit model. We had the opportunity to have our friend Kerry in the studio to help us maintain our authentic vision of who our Hermoza might be once the line premiered. To give you a little behind-the-scenes intel on the early days of Hermoza, we sat down again with Kerry to hear her perspective on what it was like working with the brand. Enjoy!

Q: What is your modeling background and experience? What fun projects have you enjoyed in the past?

Kerry: I have been a production fit model for over 20 years in the Los Angeles area. Working with an array of designers and companies mainly in contemporary sportswear. Presently I'm fitting for Vince, Robert Rodriguez and Hale Bob. In the past, Laundry by Shelli Segal, Cynthia Vincent, Guess, and Tommy Bahama, just to name a few. I’m excited to be a part of Hermoza Swim! I am thankful every day for the work. It’s been a lot of fun and I enjoy being amongst such a smart, creative, and talented group of people!

Q: What were your first impressions of the Hermoza brand?

K: Very positive! They have targeted a specific demographic that caters to women who want more coverage in a swimsuit but still look stylish with modern designs and high-quality fabrics.

Q: What seemed to be important to the brand in its early creation stages?

K: That their customer feels comfortable and confident wearing the swimwear.

Q: Tell us more about having the fit based around your body measurements. What was that process like?

K: I am like a live mannequin. I have standard proportions to fit a universal fit. For example: Hermoza Swim base fit size is an 8 which reflects my body measurements. Then they grade accordingly up and down for all sizes. Two most important parts of the job as a fit model is #1 to be consistent with my weight. There is a structured grading system all companies have to abide by for mass production. #2 is to give feedback on how the garment feels. For instance if it’s too big or too tight etc.. then the patternmaker adjusts the pattern accordingly to perfect the fit. We usually fit a swimsuit 3-4 times before it is released to production.

Q: What were your first impressions of the fabrics? What can you recall of the different collections: Movement, Shape, and Sculpt?

K: My personal favorite is Movement. It forms to the body like a second skin with a soft smooth hand. Shape is a bit more structured and gives more support. I like it too! Sculpt has extra support. Great for an active day at the beach. It’s nice to have options in one swimwear line.

Q: What feedback did you give our designer?

K: One of the joys of working with your designer is the collaborative approach. I feel lucky to work with a great designer who really wants to know how the garment actually fits and feels. I appreciate the opportunity to give honest feedback which might help to make an even better product for consumers. Sometimes I will mention small adjustments here and there to enhance a more flattering fit!

Q: What were your favorite prints/colors?

K: I personally like solid colors. The solid green swimsuit (coming soon) is stunning! But you can’t go wrong with a solid black swimsuit. Classic, simple, and slimming.

Q: To what pieces do you gravitate now that you can see the finished products? 

K: My favorite silhouette is the Marisa. It’s a classic body. Simple but stylish. It has a boycut leg that gives the swimsuit a cool retro look.  I have it in red and the color compliments my skin tone.

Q: What is your role at Hermoza like now that the Spring line has launched?

K: We are in the beginning stages of fitting the next season! We have been testing new fabrics to update each of the collections. There are subtle differences, but one nice upgrade is to Movement. There will be a bit more support, but it will still feel like a second skin. The prints are still in the works, but I tried on a cool black one that has an interesting pattern in the fabric. Not sure of the name yet, but I think it’s going to be a top seller!

Q: Was there anything distinctive about working with the Hermoza team?

K: They are a pleasure to work for in a very friendly environment! I am impressed by their dedication to perfecting and growing the brand.

Working with Kerry is a dream! She did so much more for us than what patterns or hollow forms could provide. Kerry’s voice was instrumental in shaping and polishing the accessibility of our swimwear to ensure it became distinctive and luxurious.

Since we knew Hermoza would fill the gap in an industry that typically wasn’t serving more discerning women, it was important for us to have in mind the needs and expectations of actual women. As we continue to create fashionable solutions for our Hermozas, Kerry’s time and experience with us resonates through our swim and resort wear that celebrates femininity, elevates expectations, and embodies elegance.

So, who inspires and supports you, Hermozas? Who are those women in your life who help you celebrate and appreciate your inherent beauty? Who helps you to be creative and innovative? Let us know in the comments section below or by joining the conversation on social media. #beautyisinthedetails #beautywellsuited #thehermoza

Besos, Marisa and Tiffany