Today we’d like to introduce you to Zaira Maxwell.
Hi Zaira, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve had a passion for fashion and modeling since I was a little girl. Probably around 7 or 8 years old. My grandmother used to sew and make costumes for me, and those were some of my happiest memories growing up. She always made me feel beautiful in everything she created for me, and that’s really where my love for design and fashion started.
In 2015, I launched my first online business in Houston, Texas, selling clothing and wholesale designs. I later moved to Los Angeles in 2016, continuing to grow my brand. While living in Orange County and spending weekends at the beach in Panama where I’m from, it’s something I grew up doing with my family. I realized my true passion was in swimwear. It felt natural and aligned with my lifestyle.
I officially started designing swimsuits in 2018, right before the pandemic, but like many others, I had to pause everything during COVID. After moving back to Houston in December 2021, I found myself in real estate but felt like something was missing creatively.
One day, I decided to host a fashion show at my high-rise downtown , just to get back into my element. I didn’t have a new collection at the time, but I knew I needed to reconnect with my passion. The show ended up being a sold-out success and reminded me why I love designing.
Since then, I’ve relaunched my swimwear line, partnered with Swimsuit USA International as a sponsor, and I’m currently preparing for my next fashion show to debut my new collection. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come and so excited for what’s ahead. Thank you for the support. I can’t wait to show you what’s next for Zadore by Z.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. After Covid, I really struggled with knowing in my heart that I needed to get back into fashion, but mentally, it was hard to start over. I knew what I wanted to do, but getting back in the game after being away for so long was not easy.
Once I did start again, everything was slow. Building your name back up, getting people to pay attention, reminding people what you do., that’s one of the hardest parts. It can feel discouraging at times because you know your vision and what you’re capable of, but it takes time for others to catch on and support it.
That’s been my biggest challenge, growing my audience and clientele again, especially in an industry that’s so competitive. But I’ve stayed true to myself, stayed consistent, and I know the right people are starting to notice.
I’m really excited for what’s coming. I have so many ideas and projects I’m working on. At the end of the day, I just want people to know who I am, what I represent, and what I’m bringing to the fashion world. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m ready for it and I know my time is coming.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a fashion lover at heart. a stylist and swimwear designer who’s all about making people look and feel their best, one design at a time. I take a lot of pride in my work, especially when it comes to creating pieces that not only look good but feel good, comfortable, flattering, and made with quality fabrics.
Right now, my main focus is swimwear because it feels the most natural to me.
it’s part of my lifestyle and my story. But what sets me apart is that I design with heart. I’m very hands-on with my pieces, from the fit to the fabric to the little details people may not even notice, but I notice, and I care about that.
I’m most proud of staying true to myself and my style. I don’t rush my process. I create things I believe in. And even though swimwear is my focus right now, I’m excited to go back to where I started, curating and designing everyday fashion for women, men, and everyone who loves style.
For me, it’s not just about selling clothes .
it’s about creating a vibe, a feeling, a lifestyle. That’s what Zadore by Z is all about.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Definitely going to the beach almost every weekend with my family. those are memories I’ll never forget. My dad used to build mermaids, dolphins, and sandcastles for us right on the shore, it was so simple but so magical. That’s where I really fell in love with the ocean and beach lifestyle, which plays a big part in my swimwear designs today.
Another beautiful part of my childhood was growing up with my grandmother, who was a designer herself. She used to sew and create pieces for me all the time. that’s really where my love for fashion was born. She planted that seed in me without even knowing it.
And I can’t forget my high school dance group. We were number one in the nation for two years. That gave me so much confidence, creativity, and passion for performing and expressing myself through art and style.
Those moments shaped me, they gave me character, creativity, and a love for beauty in all forms. I wouldn’t trade those memories for the world.
Pricing:
- Swimwear from $25 – $95
- Special custom made pieces price varies
- New collection dropping soon — limited edition pieces
- New collection of regular clothes for men and women coming soon
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.zadorebyz.com
- Instagram: @zadore.by.z
