We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lauren Layne Merck a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Lauren thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.

When I started Lauren Layne Swim I was focused on making swimwear that every woman felt confident and effortlessly sexy in and that was it. Over the last few years, we’ve collaborated, with different charities and organizations, such as The Whale and Dolphin Conservation, The Ocean Cleanup Project and many more. After relocating to Florida during the pandemic, I saw the effects of pollution and climate change firsthand. Being so passionate about this I wanted to do something different that could help our environment as well as make women feel great about themselves. As of November 2023, Lauren Layne Swim will be completely sustainable! Our swimwear is made from recycled, fishing nets and micro fibers found in the ocean. Our ready-to-wear is made of recycled bamboo, and our loungewear is made from recycled plastic bottles. This is just a small step at making a difference in this world.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Hi, I am Lauren Layne (Merck) I have been an international model since 2012 and always had a love for fashion. After spending multiple years modeling swimwear and lingerie I wanted to make my own swimwear company that made every woman feel like confident, sexy, and their very best when they put on a swimsuit. Which led me to launching Lauren Layne Swim in 2018. I am most proud of my effort and hard work I’ve put into creating and running this brand as well as the launch of our first fully sustainable collection, coming this November!

We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.

I don’t personally manufacture my own products however, I do come up with new designs, sketch them, and perfect for samples before they go into production. After taking classes at FIT, I understood more clearly how to run a successful business. I made some amazing connections while living in New York, as well as having a personal mentor that help me get the company off the ground and running.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I built my following on social media by just being my true, authentic self. People need to feel like they connect with you in one way or another. Show them who you truly are, your wonderful personality and I’m sure they’ll love you!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.laurenlayneswim.com
• Instagram: laurenlayneswim
• Facebook: laurenlayneswim
• Youtube: Laurenlayneswim

Image Credits
Photo shot by: Shaye Babb Lloyd Steven and Alison Mazur