Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Forney.
Hi Nicole, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born and raised in Sugar Land, Texas. I grew up enjoying all types of crafts but found my passion in sewing. My sewing journey started in 2011, taking a sewing class. I didn’t have a passion for it at the time or cared much for sewing, and it was just an interesting elective. The next thing I knew, I started staying late after class making skirts, dresses, and crossbody bags from leftover fabric from the school. In March 2012, going to South Padre Island for spring break, I found my interest in swimsuits. After looking around and seeing I had the same swimsuit as multiple people, it came to me that I would design my swimsuit for the following year. Knowing very little about fabric style, I made my first swimsuit with a cotton fabric that didn’t stretch. It came out good other than the fabric didn’t stretch. I even hot-glued the diamond jewel to a clasp holding the swimsuit together. I still rocked it, knowing I was taking a chance of it falling apart. After so many compliments, my passion for swimwear began.
Over the years ,I’ve made so many swimsuits that I fell in love with.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In 2021 I decided to start Nfswimwear with the help of a push from a friend. I felt frightened and had a negative mindset that my swimwear would never be good enough being handmade compared to the perfect stitch you would get from a manufacturer. I started NFSwimwear by partnering with a whole seller and other manufacturers designing my bags, tags, and more. It was fun, but my heart wasn’t in it when it came time to sell. My passion faded, knowing the items I sold weren’t handmade or my designs. I took a year off to refind myself and figure out how I could still pursue my dream.
I wanted to make multiple sizes and sell a product I loved and something other people would love. That’s when I found my joy again. It’s a lot more work making everything on my own and complex working a full-time job while doing this on the side, but this is where my heart is after getting discouraged repeatedly. I know this is something I won’t give up on. No matter how often I feel knocked down, I’ll stand back up. I won’t let this dream be something I regret because I didn’t try or give my all. I want to know that I gave my all to my goals as someone who overcame letting my fear or failure get in the way and was ready to take on any challenges to create this company.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m the founder and designer behind a swimwear brand focused on creating pieces that feel as good as they look. I specialize in designing flattering, confidence driven by travel and warm destinations. Nfswimwear highlights the body in all the right ways, while still feeling effortless and wearable. What sets my work apart is the attention to detail and the balance between custom, handmade designs and ready to wear collections.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I grew up an only child, but being surrounded by neighborhood kids made it feel like I wasn’t. I was outgoing, active, and played just about every sport, with a bit of a tomboy side – though I still loved my girly moments too. I’ve always been social, energetic, and supported by a loving family, which really shaped who I am today.
Pricing:
- Tops $40
- Bottoms $40
- One piece $120
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nfswimwear.com
- Instagram: nfswimwear
