“Empowering Women Through Swimwear: How Sara Requena Built Tinye Swimwear from Vision to Reality”

Swimwear is more than just fashion—it’s a reflection of confidence and self-expression. Sara Requena, founder of Tinye Swimwear, set out to create a brand that embodies these values. Launched during the pandemic, Tinye Swimwear blends timeless design, Venezuelan heritage, and sustainability, offering women pieces that make them feel effortlessly sexy and comfortable.

In this interview, Requena shares the inspiration behind her brand, the challenges of launching a business, and how she’s redefining confidence through fashion.

Exclusive Interview: Inside Sara Requena’s Tinye Swimwear Journey, Challenges, and Future Plans

Requena, what inspired you to start Tinye Swimwear during the pandemic, and how did your Venezuelan heritage influence your designs?

Requena: “Starting a business was always a dream of mine, but I never had the two key ingredients at the same time: time and money. At 18, I started working full-time at a marketing agency, saving every paycheck with the hope of launching my own brand one day. But between juggling a 9-to-5 job and being a full-time college student, time was the missing piece.

When I got the opportunity to study abroad in Europe through my university, I redirected all my savings toward making that experience happen. I moved to Madrid, Spain, and just two months into my journey, the pandemic hit. Suddenly, I found myself back home in the U.S. with both time and savings on my side. Quarantine became the perfect window to finally bring my vision to life—and that’s how Tinye Swimwear was born.

Venezuelan women are known for their beauty, but I believe our real power comes from our confidence. It’s not about physical features—it’s the way we carry ourselves, the self-assurance we radiate. We own our beauty simply by being ourselves. That confidence is at the heart of every design I create. Tinye Swimwear isn’t just about bikinis; it’s about giving women pieces that make them feel effortlessly sexy, comfortable, and empowered. My designs are practical, simple, and timeless—so that you shine, not just the swimsuit. Because when you feel good, you look even better.”

What challenges did you face launching a swimwear brand in Miami, and how did you overcome them?

“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced—and still navigate today—is learning how to listen to feedback without letting it cloud my vision. Everyone has an opinion: ‘You should do more prints, add more structure, use neutral colors.’ Others say my designs are too niche or only cater to a specific group. It can be overwhelming to hear so many different perspectives, especially when I know that every piece I create is intentional and carefully planned months—sometimes years—in advance.

People often underestimate the design process, thinking I can just whip up a new bikini overnight. But great design takes time. Staying true to my vision, rather than constantly reacting to external noise, has been a personal challenge—but also a powerful lesson in trusting myself.

Aside from that, Miami is an incredible place to launch a swimwear brand. The demand is there—bikinis are practically a wardrobe staple. The competition is fierce, but there’s room for everyone to succeed. The key is knowing who you are as a brand and staying grounded in that, no matter how many voices try to pull you in different directions.”

How did your participation in Miami Swim Week impact Tinye Swimwear’s growth and visibility?

“Miami Swim Week helped solidify Tinye Swimwear as more than just a brand—it became an experience. It gave my customers the chance to connect with the people behind their favorite swimwear, turning a brand they love into something even more personal. Creating VIP experiences where women can engage directly with Tinye Swim has been incredible for building loyalty and deepening those relationships.

For me, Miami Swim Week isn’t just about visibility—it’s about connection. Meeting the women who support and love my work is one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. There’s this instant, unbreakable bond, and I walk away from every interaction feeling even more inspired. More than anything, Swim Week is my way of giving back to the community that has made Tinye Swim what it is—a chance to say thank you in the most epic way possible.”

Sustainability is a growing concern in fashion. How does Tinye Swim address environmental considerations in its production?

“As of January 2024, we’ve fully transitioned to using fabrics made from recycled nylon, all of which are OEKO-TEX certified. Sustainability isn’t just about the materials—it’s about creating high-quality pieces that last. We design our swimwear to be timeless and durable, so our customers can wear their favorite bikinis season after season, reducing the need for constant repurchasing.

We also focus on minimizing waste in our packaging. Every Tinye Swim bikini comes in a reusable zipper bag, designed to be repurposed rather than discarded. I love seeing how our customers get creative—using them to store their swimsuits, as makeup bags, or even for travel essentials. Small changes like these add up, and I’m proud that Tinye Swimwear is taking steps toward a more thoughtful approach to fashion.”

Marketing and Growth Strategies

What marketing tactics or promotional strategies have been most effective in growing your customer base, both locally and online?

“Organic content has been the driving force behind Tinye Swim’s growth. Word of mouth is everything—when your best friend recommends something, you instantly trust it. I see organic social media content working the same way. When real customers share their love for Tinye Swim, whether through TikToks, Instagram posts, or unfiltered reviews, it builds trust and credibility in a way no ad ever could.

Authenticity is key. Instead of pushing a product, we focus on creating a brand experience that people genuinely want to be part of. That’s what keeps customers coming back—and bringing their friends along with them.”

Can you share any collaborations or local partnerships that have helped elevate Tinye Swimwear’s visibility in Miami’s competitive fashion scene?

“I’ve been incredibly lucky to collaborate with amazing venues like Night Swim Rooftop and The Sagamore Hotel to host unforgettable events. Lately, I’ve also been loving the more intimate gatherings at our HQ, like yoga and Pilates classes, which create a deeper sense of community around the brand.

Miami is filled with insanely talented creatives, and local models, photographers, and videographers play a huge role in bringing Tinye Swim’s vision to life. We thrive on collaboration—whether it’s crafting unique concepts, storytelling through visuals, or simply celebrating the women who make this brand what it is. You can see it all come to life on our Instagram, @tinyeswim!”

Looking ahead, are there any plans to diversify your product range, enter new markets, or explore other revenue streams for the brand?

“I’d love to expand into resortwear and even men’s swimwear one day! There are so many exciting directions Tinye Swim could go, and I’m always open to new ideas. That said, great things take time. Right now, my focus is on solidifying Tinye Swim as a leading women’s swimwear brand and continuing to grow this sector before expanding into new categories. Once that foundation is stronger than ever, who knows what’s next? The possibilities are endless.”

Advice for Aspiring Female Entrepreneurs

Requena, what advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to start their own fashion brands?

Requena: “Just start! It’s easy to get overwhelmed trying to make everything perfect from the beginning, but the truth is—you’ll make mistakes, and your brand will evolve along the way. Don’t get stuck obsessing over small details. Launch first, then refine as you go.

The most valuable insights come from real customers, not from guessing what might work. Getting your product out into the world and seeing how people respond will teach you far more than waiting for the ‘perfect’ moment. Take the leap, trust the process, and be willing to adapt—that’s how you build something truly great.”