Flagpole Summer 18 Collection
New York based swimwear label, Flagpole is a Cali-surfer girl’s dream. Clean lines, block colours and bikinis that won’t fall off every time you dive into the sea. LUX asks co-founders Megan Balch and Jamie Barker how they do it.
Jaime Barker and Megan Balch
1. Describe the Flagpole woman.
The Flagpole woman loves to travel, always active in her pursuit for exploration. She is sophisticated, practical and embraces a sporty edge to her style. She appreciates quality in all aspects of her life.
2. How does the collaborative design process work?
We have the same taste but very different strengths in our designing. We like to choose the colour palette together and with that, the collection really starts to come together. It’s the blend of Megan’s focus on functionality and Jaime’s artistic vision that gives Flagpoleits signature design.
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3. What’s inspiring you at the moment?
It’s almost always architecture. We just returned from a trip to Chicago bursting with ideas and appreciation from their skyline.
The Lori top with Frida skirt from the Flagpole Summer 18 Collection
4. What comes first, functionality or style?
Honestly, it’s a combination. They are not mutually exclusive. Without artistic vision, Flagpole would not have its voice. Without functionality, it would not have its progress. We must have both to embrace and succeed in our story. So when we approach a new concept, both are simultaneously in conversation.
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5. Your collections always have a distinct colour palette. How do you decide on the shades?
Colour is something we both find very emotional. We spend a lot of time working to find the perfect colour combinations that speak to what we want to feel in our collection. The painstaking process of balancing warm and cool tones is honestly one of the most exciting and aggravating stages. But we will work until we both feel that every shade is perfect.
The Gia one-piece from the Flagpole Summer 18 Collection
6. What’s next for the brand?
There are so many things in the works we can’t wait to share with the world. One we can say, and are excited to announce, is that this summer we’ll be launching our Men’s line!
View the collections and buy online at flagpolenyc.com
