Mineral Melange is an NYC based designer swimwear label, with each swimsuit embodying mineralogical elements and spiritual meaning. Featuring an assortment made to fit all body types, each swimsuit is named after specific minerals and gemstones while constructed to mimic unique geological and mineralogical properties. Mineral Melange suits are handmade and designed by former geologist turned fashion designer, Brittany McGregor, along with the in-house help of NYC based garment designers. While appealing to customers who seek swimwear that reflects their spiritual connection to the Earth and the cosmos, Mineral Melange also prioritizes providing larger top coverage, catering to a demographic that is underserved in today’s current retail market. Our connection to geology and astrology resonates with individuals who see swimwear as more than just clothing but as a form of self-expression, environmental consciousness, and personal empowerment.
Mineral Melange Questionnaire
Q. What inspired you to start your swimwear brand, and what was the journey like in the beginning?
A. What truly inspired me to start Mineral Melange was my bachelor’s degree in geology plus my desire for better form-fitting bikini tops. (A weird mix I know.) But I grew up within close distance of the beach in FL, and all of the bikini tops I purchased never had a reputable fit. I had a small knack for sewing growing up, but I started to take it seriously when I moved back to NYC after finishing my geology degree in 2016. I was sewing at my aunt’s design studio, starting off with random skirts and tops here and there. I made a bikini for my sister, and it was green like Olivine (one of my fav minerals). I made the bikini top sexy but supportive of a larger cleavage, something you never see in today’s market. Supportive but sexy! I thought to myself, what if I name each swimsuit after my favorite rocks and minerals that I studied in geology? I wrote it down but hid my notebook because I thought the idea was so dumb once I read it back to myself.
A whole year later, I took out the same notebook and told the idea to my sister and she was wide-eyed with amazement. Eventually,I gained the confidence to release my first line, “Cryptocrystalline,” in 2019, named after minerals with crystals too fine to be seen under a microscope.
Q. Where do you find inspiration for your designs, and how do you make your brand stand out in the swimwear industry?
A. My inspo comes from any mineral or rock formation that I find interesting from my geological studies. There’s such a large variety of terminology to work with when it comes to earth sciences, and it gives me so much room to be creative when thinking of a new line. For instance, all my high-waisted Brazilian bottoms are called ‘Cabo’, which is short for cabochon. Cabochon represents gems cut in a convex form. The V shape that dips at the center front of a Brazilian brief mimics that convex shape, allowing for an accentuated and sexy high-rise hip. Also my best-selling line ‘Obsidian’, which features black glossy spandex milliskin material and is an embodiment of the waxy luster of black obsidian rock. I always felt my knowledge in mineralology and geology makes Mineral Melange stand out amongst others. No one can take away the knowledge I’ve gained combined with my creativity.
Q. How would you describe your brand’s identity, and where do you see it evolving in the next five years?
A. Mineral Melange integrates the elements of geology, mineralogy, and astrology into its collections, giving each piece a distinct and meaningful identity. Mineral Melange appeals to customers who are drawn to Earth and cosmic symbolism. This connection to astrology resonates with individuals who see swimwear as more than just clothing but as a form of self-expression and personal empowerment. In the next 5 years, I see us taking on more than just swimwear. I can’t wait to get into more category expansions as well as expanding to doors all over the world.
Q. Can you share any details about your upcoming collection and when we can expect its release?
A. My upcoming selection is set to release end of this year (God willing if all goes right)
Q. How long have you been designing swimwear, and what have been the biggest lessons you’ve learned along the way?
A. Designing swimwear specifically since 2018 with pieces for myself and fam/friends, then professionally in 2020. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is there’s literally a market for EVERYTHING. Just find your audience and niche and keep going. Someone is always watching 💋
