kat
1 What’s your independent product?
HIVE swimwear-active and fashionable swimwear(surf
bikinis,tankinis,boardies,kaftans,sun dresses,sun hats,track suits)
2 Who are you and where are you from?
Kat Hogg – long time resident from Noosa Heads,Sunshine Coast,Qld.
3 When did you get the idea for your product, whats the history behind it?
Swimwear for surfing needs to be specially designed to “stay on”.As an X-surf teacher in the local Noosa surf school and X-manager of a surf travel business it was clear that we(the female surfer)had to constantly adjust or pull swimwear.There was a clear niche market and so the ultimate swimwear bikini with a fashion edge was designed-HIVE swimwear.The collection expanded into other beachwear accessories with a fashion yet funckional edge.
4 Was it a lot of work? What was involved in the process, from idea to in-stores? Is it a one-woman team?
The work involved to design,manufacture,launch and market a swimwear brand can not be under estimated.The product has to be good to start with-we are really happy with market response to our specifically designed swimwear.Hive requires many consultants whom are personally and closely managed to ensure the direction of the label is constant.I deal with the manufacturer directly. I contract a graphic artist,a photography/video production team,my husband helps with marketing and I spearhead sales with great support from another 3-4 state based agents.Hive has 2 office staff to assist with processing of orders and personally helping clients.The swimwear business is competitive but we have a unique design to share.
5 Any particular objective behind your swimwear?
The swimwear is designed to “stay on” when you surf or dive into the water!As Hive has evolved over 4 years we have designed specific swimwear for surfing,for ocean swimmming and for different body shapes.(ieD/DD cups,adjustable straps,secure fit)
6 What’s your favourite thing about your swimwear?
Playing in the waves,surfing and swimming without the need to constantly adjust things.Feeling secure in your swimwear without “bits” falling out is the best!
As a close second I like walking down to the beach without feeling that everyone else is wearing the same suit.Hive has a great collection of exclusive prints that look great.That’s what most women like.
7 What’s a compliment that you often get about your swimwear?
“It feels so comfortable that I wear it when not going to the beach”
“Yes-finally someone has listened to us!”
“It really does stay on!”
“I love the prints-so original”
Breif top togs - so functional
8 Where do you see your product in five years time?
Hive is likely to be available in boutique surfing and speciality swimwear shops Australia wide.
The business will grow such that we have agents in each state of Australia and it is likely we will expand operations into USA coastal surf locations.
9 Where’s your favourite beach or location to visit in Australia, and why?
I cant go past my home town of Noosa in Queensland.We have an amazing national park with many protected bays.The beaches are pictureque and we have the warmest water for surfing in Australia.I love the points for surfing and I adore a chance to wear Hive swimwear.
and matching comfy bottoms.
10 What inspires you most in life, work and water?
I like to be active and fit – working with swimwear is conducive to this.
My goal is to provide the ultimate surf swimwear to fellow surfer girls.
Tags: kat hogg noosa swimwear togs bathers surfing women australia
