Tag Archives: Beach

Brazilian Babe Sonia and her Dreamy Swimsuits

By dianiliving | Published August 3, 2012

I’ve been so excited to sit down with Sonia de Mello and talk to her about her gorgeous and sexy swimsuits. She founded her company, So De Mel in 2006 and has been making sure that women of all shapes and sizes feel comfortable, beautiful and confident on the beach or by the pool.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Photo Blue Caleel

Q&A

What do you feel is the most common criteria when someone is picking a new bathing suit?
Embrace your body shape, taking the time to find a swimsuit that suits your body, your comfort level, and also your lifestyle.

 

What is your biggest no-no when it comes to bathing suits?
A style that doesn’t define your body shape, and increases your body size, rather than minimize it.

 

Which is your most popular style?
I have several popular styles, but would say for one piece it’s the Carlotta Deep Twisted Maillot, and for a 2 piece, the Mini Brigitte – a Brazilian cut brief with coverage that fits most body shapes and a light foam twisted strapless bandeau top.

 

What inspired you to start your business?
The many requests from friends to bring suits from Brazil, and all the trips after school to the beach. It was then that I noticed a void in stylish swimwear and it lead me to start importing swimwear, and after that I decided to create and design my own brand.

 

How would you define the So De Mel customer?
My clients are sophisticated, have a clean style, and like their swimwear to be made from luxury fabrics. They know what they like – my customers range from local Santa Barbarans to jet-setters who like to hit the ‘A LIST’ beach destinations. My line is also sold in many high-end resorts around the globe.

 

What has been the high point so far on your journey with So De Mel? You got  in Sports Illustrated! That must be a highlight?
Yes, I have been featured in their issue a few times, and I’m sure that one of my swimsuits will make it to the cover one day. So De Mel was on the cover of SHAPE with Jenny McCarthy back in 2009, and that cover set me up in the industry, along with an editorial in LUCKY which we were the open spread of, “The Best Swimsuits of the Season.”  People still want those featured suits. My high point just happened, but I can’t reveal that yet – All I can say is I am really looking forward to the 2013 season.There are some great new doors opening and I am very excited.

 

Which is your favorite beach in the world?
Ahhh… I love so many, and haven’t been to them all yet, but I love Laranjeiras beach. It’s located in a private condominium in Paraty, Rio de Janeiro – a small cove beach surrounded by jungle, and very peaceful.

 

How would you describe your personal style?
I like to wear what makes me feel comfortable and sexy without trying. I like to mix everything up.

 

What’s in your beach bag?
For sun protection, everything Josie Maran, including her lip balm. I also love Susan Ciminelli’s sunscreen. For an instant tanned look, I like Maui Babe Browning Lotion mixed with my sunscreen. Iphone 4S and head phones. Beach Hat. Large cotton striped Mexican blanket. Beryll sunglasses. Water.

 

DIANI and So De Mel will be hosting a Beach Chic Shopping Event on Thursday, August 9th at DIANI in Santa Barbara.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 So De Mel S/S 2012
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Happy 4th!

By dianiliving | Published July 3, 2012

I know I’m a Brit, but I can get into the spirit of the upcoming July 4th holiday, especially now that I’ve discovered Fresco’s Americana themed beach towels! Before packing your bag for the beach tomorrow, don’t leave the house without one. It’s the perfect accessory for a day of celebration. Happy 4th!

Fresco Beach Towels $160.00.  Available at DIANI

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Fresco Towels

By dianiliving | Published May 16, 2012

I’m obsessed with these towels I found. Fresco is a luxury printed towel collection. Their mission is simple: “Enjoy spa level standards from the majestic world of your bathroom to the poolside or the beach with our terry loop, highly absorbent artistic towels.”

Their towels are pre-washed and pre-shrunk, ensuring the towels plush demeanor and ease of use. The fun begins when you pick your prints. There are tons to choose from!

www.dianiboutique.com

fresco towels

Beach Towels $160.00
Bath Towels $75.00
Beach Totes $110.00
Beach Ponchos $130.00

Available at DIANI Boutique June 2012.

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From The Nest

By dianiliving | Published May 10, 2012

Here are a few of my favorite spaces in my home.

From the Nest (1)

The first thing I see when I walk in are photos of my father and me, and my sister holding me as a baby. The roses were a gift from my best friend’s garden. Wall photo art by Jeff Clark.From the Nest (2)

Photo art  was a gift from my boyfriend. The large scale image was shot whilst on our most recent trip to Kenya.

From The Nest

My favorite candle scent, Baies by Diptyque.

The best reading chair ever that I found at ABC Carpet and Home in NYC and had re-upholstered. It’s 17th Century Flemish and still going strong. The pillow is a gift from a close friend in England. A reminder of where I’m from.

From the Nest (3)

 My snuggle buddy, Raisin. Everyone should have one.

From the Nest (4)

 Two wooden love birds found on a recent trip to England.

From the Nest (5)

 My kitchen, a bright and breezy space to feel inspired in.

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