New Swimwear Store Orchid Boutique Opens in South Beach
Ordering swimwear online isn’t easy. Deciding the style and color that fits best can’t really be perfected through a website. Mayra Jimenez, owner of TheOrchidBoutique.com (and now the Orchid Boutique storefront) got that, and decided to open up shop on South Beach. Her store has in-house stylists, and even accessories, jewelry, and beach bags to complement the swimsuits. Now Open (on 224 8th St. in Miami Beach), we caught up with Jimenez to talk inspirations and why they’ll be the best one-stop swim shop on the beach.
How did you get into fashion?
Mayra Jimenez: I've always been in love with fashion and finds. In my early twenties I became obsessed with how things fit. Many garments looked great on hangers but didn't fit well. The design was there, the idea was special, but it didn't feel flattering to a woman's body. Especially with swimsuits, I was always searching for the ideal bottom that could achieve an anti-muffin top, anti-diaper rear fit. When I found it, I knew I had something special.
What inspired you to launch TheOrchidBoutique.com?
I saw a void in the market for truly unique swimwear. Many people think of swimsuits as an after-thought. That thing you dread wearing, and don't spend much time looking for. The truth is though, people wear swimsuits for memorable occasions, like cruises, honeymoons, pool parties, and beach getaways. I wanted to offer a special product that would flatter several body types without making you look matronly or boring.
What made you decide to open the storefront?
Too many people were showing up to our Brickell corporate location! We had to build a dressing room in office-like set up. That meant that every time we had a customer, several of our fashion specialists would have to clear their desks to give them some privacy in the showroom. We didn't have enough space to fit all the chaperones!
What will set Orchid Boutique apart from other boutiques on the beach?
The special cherry-picked selection we offer (many of them exclusive), and the passion we have for what we sell. We also carry our very own brand, Orchid Label. Our concept is to create a store where every single piece is a unique find.
How do you decide what emerging designers to carry?
We scour the corners of the world to find the most unique brands. I personally curate the selection and decide what brands to add based on factors like fit, and innovation. We want the understated wow-pieces as well as the best kept secrets. We want the suits that make you feel good, happy, sexy. Just like some are obsessed with handbags, or shoes, we're obsessed with swimwear.
Orchid Boutique, 224 8th St., Miami Beach. For more information, visit theorchidboutique.com
