‘The Alicia’ Swimsuit by Nettle’s Tale

Nettle’s Tale named a bikini after yours truly and someone pinch me!

I first heard of Nettle’s Tale when they started on a crowdfunding site.  The founder, Julia, was pitching a locally made swim line that was thoughtfully designed for women of all sorts of shapes and sizes.  I remember watching the video and feeling an instant connection to this woman and her designs.

When the collection was launched, it was sold in a local store, and I was able to finally meet Julia in person and try on some of her suits.   I ended up purchasing ‘The Julia’ because it had supportive underwire, and wore it on our honeymoon in Italy, which you can see it briefly at the beginning of this video.  The bottoms I got to match are called The Magic Bottoms and they are literal bathing suit witchcraft.  So comfy and perfect for mix and matching. I now own them in cranberry and black.  They also go really well with my Heather Top.  As you can tell, I have been a big fan of Nettle’s Tale since day one.

That’s why, when Julia reached out two years ago (yes, it has taken this long from concept to execution) and said she wanted to design a suit with me in mind, I was over the moon and slightly nervous.  I mean, what a dream come true.  I loved Nettle’s Tale and knew that she’d create something spectacular.

Read on to find out how The Alicia swimsuit came about and be sure to use code  SUMMER2018AF if you’re shopping Nettle’s Tale for Free Standard Shipping.

THE ALICIA SUIT

We envisioned a bathing suit top that would have a unique design, while still supporting my large bust.  Julia had the idea to make the top look like it was a t-shirt tied as a crop, which I loved!  It’s such a fun way to cover up the chest area, with hidden underwire support underneath for D-H cups.  Plus, if you untie the knot it makes the perfect triangle cover of the tummy area.  It’s a secret weapon for poolside nachos and/or vacation bloat LOL.

What separates Nettle’s Tale from other generic brands, is the carefully thought out customizations.  We opted for practical double straps that are adjustable and can be criss crossed in the back for extra support.  The hook in the back has three length options, which helps those who’s band and cup size aren’t a conventional match.  Just a note, if the hook is slippery or too wide, crossing the straps will keep things together, or Julia said there’s a possible other hook option.  She even went as far as making The Alicia top available without underwire, so that we would accommodate those who are XS-XL.

My other request was the highest waist bottoms she could possibly create.  I feel most comfortable in a high waisted suit and I think it can be quite flattering on an hourglass shape (and other shapes, I’m sure, not trying to limit the wearability).  In general, it provides the coverage of a one piece without the hassle of it.  And at this point in my life, I could care less about tanning my midriff, so I have no problem covering it up!

And you guys, I am so in love with how it all turned out.  It even looks great on a dreary rainy grey Vancouver day!

In case you’re wondering, I am wearing The Alicia top in white, underwire size DD (am a Large in the non underwire style) and The Alicia bottoms in yellow floral size M.  For reference, I wear a streetwear size 10.

It was such an honour to witness the design process and to have a small temporary part in this local business.  I am just so proud of Julia and her team for getting where they are today and taking their brand to the next level with their new Gastown store.  If you are local to Vancouver, or in town at all, I highly recommend paying Nettle’s Tale a visit and trying on her suits in person.  The fitting room experience with those ladies is always encouraging and individualized, making the search for a suit a pleasant one!

The Nettle’s Tale Store is at 330 W. Cordova Street, Vancouver

Shop Nettle’s Tale online and use code  SUMMER2018AF  for Free Standard Shipping (on orders over $59) or, visit them in store and let them know that Alicia sent ya!  Either way, 10% of your purchase will go to the Looking Glass Foundation, which is a caring community of prevention, early intervention, and support for those suffering from anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders — and those who love them.

Photos by the darling Meghan Bustard and her “assistant” Rosie.

Also, I wanted to be transparent that this swimsuit was generously given to me by Nettle’s Tale because I mean, she basically made it for me and it’s truly the most special gift.  Thank you all for your support today and always.  Hope you love the suit as much as we do! xo