Women

14 Questions With Leslie Amon

The story "Life is a Party" first appeared in the June 2020 issue of L'Officiel Arabia.
Leslie Amon, Fashion Designer


Hailing from Switzerland and of Egyptian origin, Leslie Cohen Amon is the designer and founder of her eponymous swimwear brand. Leslie believes women of every shape should feel confident and comfortable in swimwear. This is why she uses thicker Italian fabrics and generous cuts in her collections. Made in France, just a short distance from her home in Paris, each piece is designed with versatility in mind - bikinis and one-pieces can be worn as tops and bodysuits, too. 

From belted tassels to braided straps and, of course, pompoms, Leslie Amon Swimwear is perfect for a chic holiday getaway. Expect ’80s-inspired statement prints, bold colors and flattering high-rise shapes.

Unearthing exotic treasures from the seas of Mykonos and the beaches of Ibiza to the dazzling lights of Paris and Tokyo, Leslie Amon Swim is the semblance between seaside and cityscape. For going out rather than taking off, her suits transport from day to night. 

Guided by a passion for discovery Leslie Amon Swim is a map to the world through couture swimwear.

How did you come up with the idea of creating a swimwear brand? 

I’ve always wanted to do my own thing and liberating my creativity, but I needed to focus on something niche. I come from a “traditional fashion hierarchy”: I went to Central Saint Martins College, I did an internship in a big fashion houses, and I am still fashion design consultant for established brands. I thought that by touching something as niche as swimwear I would have to keep some sort of boundaries to express my creativity. I feel that too much freedom kills the creativity sometimes. Swimsuit and lingerie are mainly for women and it is all about comfort, precision and technicality. 

What exactly is a luxury swimwear? 

A swimsuit you can keep and cherish for a lifetime; a piece that lasts, the one you want to keep as an archive in your closet. I always select the best materials and take a lot of time to achieve the perfect fit. 

Who is the Leslie Amon girl?

The Leslie Amon girl is not scared of being in the spotlight; she is a jet-setter, a party girl, but also a working mum who travels with her kids, and is self confident.

Leslie Amon swimwear RE20 | Courtesy of Leslie Amon

Do you believe in importance of intuition when it comes to designing?

Even though I tend to be a control freak I try to follow my intuition more nowadays, and grow organically. 

Your favorite fashion trend of all time?

The 80s, Studio 54, when the world was just made of parties and fun and nothing was too serious.

What would you never wear?

A ball gown.

What is the first thing you think about when you wake up?

My cappuccino with oat milk.

What are you most passionate about, besides fashion?

Art, interiors, traveling and, of course, my dog Gigi, a Pomeranian. I love to look around and find things, I go to markets (the Puces in Paris is one of my favorite) to discover new and old things. I have very eclectic personality. 

Who is your favorite female artist? 

Georgia O’Keeffe.

Leslie Amon swimwear SS20 | Courtesy of Leslie Amon

What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?

A few months ago changing production factory for the fourth time. Today, giving birth in the Coronavirus time.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

It is so easy to do a hit collection, but the most difficult thing to achieve within a brand is to have a style, and to last during the time. Take it slowly, never rush.

What have you learned about yourself since having your own brand? 

Be patient. Stop procrastinating. Find plan B, C, D.

Who do you wish to dress or work with in the near future?

Kylie Jenner. 

One thing you can't live without? 

My iPhone.

@leslieamonswim

Author: Tanja Beljanski