As lead photographer and owner of VSP Studios, I handle many inquiries from new brands that are just starting out in the fashion game. Sometimes the inquiry comes from a design team located overseas, or a manufacturer in Asia, or a private party in the US. Sometimes it comes from an old friend, who needs me to step in and delver images that help to launch a new brand campaign. Well, let me tell you the story of friend Wilson Kello, CEO of Ethical Apparel Group, and his new brand called LOVE BELOW WATER.
“We know what the conscious consumer wants. Those prepared to deliver affordable sustainability and style today will be the winners in tomorrow’s apparel landscape.”
I can’t tell you how excited I was when I got the call to be on the LBW team. I could hear in Wilson’s voice how excited he was to begin assembling an amazing team of professionals, who can bring their years of experience in the fashion design and manufacturing business to the table. Wilson is actively looking for investors who want to meaningfully change the dynamics of global fashion.
Ethical Apparel Group was born with a focus on using sustainable fabrics and, of course ethical business practices. After many meetings with Wilson and his team, I was fired up, and ready to rock and roll on our initial photoshoot. Next step was model casting, reviewing sample items to fit approval, and finding the location for us to use as the backdrop for our marketing images.
Wilson and I met in NYC some 14 years ago while working for a womenswear, fashion manufacturer. We had lots of experience working together, and we both new that once we get our heads dialed into a direction, we would be focused and fully capable of art directing this new brand, and breathing life into the imagery. Wilson hopped on a plane and headed for VSP Studios to get things rolling. Take a look below at the images and videos we have assemble for the Love Below Water website launch. Bikinis, one pieces, and some unique pieces that will turn heads on the beach and by the pool. I didn’t even know exactly what a paddle suit was until I had the chance to see the models wearing at the photoshoot. I have a feeling this will soon be the new trending item of the summer.
Here is a sneak peak at some of the images and videos we have assemble for the Love Below Water website.
“I didn’t even know exactly what a paddle suit was until I had the chance to see the models wearing one at the photoshoot. I have a feeling this will soon be the new trending item of the summer.” - Victor Sanabrais Photographer
Ghost Mannequin Photography was utilized to display the Love Below Water collection items. Learn more about VSP Studios photography services.
Meet Love Below Water, your favorite new sustainable swim brand where sustainability meets style in the heart of the Dominican Republic. We're not just a swimwear brand; we're a movement towards responsible fashion that puts people and the planet first. Join us as we dive into a world of eco-friendly fabrics, ethical labor, and a commitment to making a positive impact on our local communities. We are 100% vegan recycled swimsuits and have the pledge to give 5% of our revenue right back to the people who make our suits and their local environment.
At Love Below Water, everything we do is with a purpose. From our choice of materials to our manufacturing processes, sustainability is at the forefront of our brand ethos. That's why all our items are named after the breathtaking beaches that surround the Dominican coastline, paying homage to the beauty and culture of our island home. By manufacturing locally, we're able to support our community while minimizing our environmental impact—a win-win situation for everyone involved. Plus, it means that each Love Below Water swimsuit comes with a touch of Dominican charm and craftsmanship, making it truly one-of-a-kind.
In a market ripe for innovation, Love Below Water occupies a distinctive niche: Sophisticated, affordable swimwear for the dynamic millennial and those who share her mindset. Our designs exude youthful energy, embodying a contemporary aesthetic tailored for active lifestyles. Attention to design detail is our hallmark, evident in meticulously crafted lines, proportions, and just-right coverage, reimagined for the fashion-forward active consumer. Our swimwear fits impeccably and stays in place, striking a delicate balance between performance and style. The Love Below Water customer is:
● Youthful in spirit, regardless of age
● Embracing an active lifestyle
● Committed to holistic well-being
● Effortlessly chic, shunning ostentation
● Authentic inside and out
We embrace the belief that feeling good about the clothes you put on your body is more than just a trend—it's a lifestyle, therefore when you slip into a Love Below Water swimsuit, you're not just making a fashion statement—you're making a conscious choice to support a lifestyle centered around sustainability and mindful consumption.
Gone are the days when environmental consciousness was the domain of niche activists willing to sacrifice style for sustainability. Today's consumers demand both, and Love Below Water is poised to deliver. Unlike many brands that merely pay lip service to ethical practices, we are genuinely committed to our cause, offering unrivaled transparency throughout our supply chain. Love Below Water is:
● Elevated essentials, merging timeless style with contemporary sensibilities
● Core basics infused with a fashion-forward twist
● Unwavering dedication to comfort and functionality
● Coverage that endures the rigors of active living
● Confident in fit and performance
Our vision extends beyond swimwear, envisioning an expansion into the broader active category. Season- less crossover pieces and athleisure staples such as leggings, tanks, sports bras, tops, cover-ups, and lightweight jackets are on our horizon, ensuring that Love Below Water remains at the forefront of fashion innovation while staying true to our ethos of responsible style.
But our dedication to sustainability doesn't stop there. We're constantly striving to innovate and improve our practices, whether it's through the use of eco-friendly materials or the implementation of renewable energy sources. In fact, we're proud to announce that our factory is in the process of going solar, further reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future. We also firmly believe in the transformative power of fashion to create meaningful change. Our brand is built on the principles of sustainability, transparency, and moral duty, with every decision guided by our dedication to people, the planet, and the future we share.
See the Sustainable Activewear Collection by Love Below Water
Love Below Water is committed to doing the best we can today, and constantly pushing limits of what we can do to transform our global methods of production and consumption before we no longer have a planet we can comfortably inhabit. We believe we can use the storytelling power of fashion to create value grounded in reality. Responsible fashion is not an overnight process— that's why we are focused on doing better every day, as well as dedicating ourselves to people, the planet, reduced waste, and our future.
So why choose Love Below Water? Because when you do, you're not just purchasing swimwear—you're investing in a vision for a better, more sustainable world. Join us as we make waves in the fashion industry and prove that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. With Love Below Water, the future is bright—and it looks absolutely fabulous. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a more sustainable future with Love Below Water. Together, we can make a difference—one swimsuit at a time. Stay tuned for more updates, inspiration, and sustainable style tips from our brand. Dive in, and let's make waves together! #LoveBelowWater #SustainableFashion #EcoFriendlySwimwear.
Look good, feel good, do good!
Photography by - Victor Sanabrais Photographer
Styling by Natalia Duran
Hair & Make Up Khadine Ali
Models: Kayla Jones , Isabella Loren , Birta Abiba , Jordan Mcdaniel
Models provided by Caroline Gleason and Elite Models Miami