Natasha Oakley, founder of Monday Swimwear, shares how the label turns every trip into an endless Summer.
Talk us through your background.
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, my mum and dad both owned their own businesses, so I grew up around that mindset. I started in digital content, working both behind and in front of the camera, which gave me a really unique perspective on storytelling and brand building. That experience eventually led to the creation of my own personal social media channel, and inevitably, to the birth of Monday Swimwear and its creative vision.
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What inspired you to launch Monday Swimwear?
It really started from a place of personal need. My co-founder, Devin and I couldn’t find swimwear that flattered our bodies and made us feel confident, let alone something that aligned with our lifestyle. So we created it ourselves. From day one, the goal was to design pieces that made women feel beautiful, supported, and comfortable, no matter their shape or size. That mission still guides everything we do today. Monday Swimwear has redefined what body confidence means in the swimwear space. What was the key vision behind the brand and how has that evolved? The original vision was always about body confidence, timeless style, and versatility. We wanted to break the mould of the “one body type” narrative and instead design pieces that celebrate real women and real curves. Over time, as our customers grew with us, we naturally expanded into resortwear and lifestyle pieces, things you’d want to live in beyond the beach. That evolution felt really organic. Today, we’re just as focused on making you feel amazing poolside as we are at dinner, on vacation, or lounging at home.
How does Monday Swimwear approach design?
We’ve always stayed true to our design philosophy: clean lines, flattering fits, elevated neutrals, and wearable classics. Our pieces aren’t about chasing trends, they’re designed to outlive them. But we do pay attention to what our customer wants and where she’s going. It’s about evolving with her lifestyle while holding onto the essence of Monday: effortless, confident, and forever summer.
How do your travels influence your design choices?
Travel is probably our biggest source of inspiration. Each destination brings out something different in our collections, from the soft pastel tones of the Mediterranean, to the vibrant colours of the Caribbean, the effortless silhouettes inspired by South American style, and the laid-back ease of the California coast. Even our fabric choices are shaped by climate and culture – how something moves, how it feels on the skin after a long day in the sun. It’s all about designing with real life (and real holidays) in mind.
Where do you personally escape to recharge and find inspiration?
Greece and Italy will always have my heart. My husband is Greek, so we spend a lot of time exploring the islands – there’s something so grounding about being near the water and surrounded by history and tradition. Italy is where we got engaged and married, so it’s a place I return to often for both romance and creative energy. Capri, Ischia, and the Amalfi Coast are my forever favourites.
How do you balance global trends with staying true to your brand DNA?
We filter everything through the lens of what’s timeless and wearable. We’re aware of trends, but we don’t let them define our direction. Instead, we ask ourselves: does this make sense for the Monday girl? Will she still love it next year? If the answer is yes, and it aligns with our DNA of confidence, elegance, and ease, we run with it.
You’ve grown your personal brand alongside Monday Swimwear – how do you separate or integrate your identities as influencers, entrepreneurs, and creatives?
It’s definitely a balance, but the throughline is authenticity. The brand is such a reflection of our lives and style, so there’s a natural overlap. But we’re also intentional about creating space for each role, when I’m in creative mode, I’m fully in it. When I’m building something as an entrepreneur, I think strategically. And when I’m sharing online, it’s about connection and storytelling.
Each piece supports the other. This is The Summer Escape Issue – where do you plan on travelling to this Summer?
I’m currently mid-way through my summer travels! We started the trip in Paris, and I’ve just spent a few beautiful weeks in Greece both for work and a little downtime. Devin has been with me the whole time, and we’ll wrap up this leg together before heading our separate ways. Next up is Italy – my husband and I return every year. Capri, where we got engaged, is always a must. We’ll also be visiting Ischia and the Amalfi Coast. Normally we’d stay longer, but I’m flying home a little earlier this year as we’re opening our first Monday Swimwear store in Beverly Hills in July, such a special moment for the brand.
July’s – The Summer Escape Issue – Download Now
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