What's a Scrunchy Bum you ask? Well, Scrunchy Bum is REX's hottest swimwear brand owned by "Booty-loving" entrepreneur Jess. We've asked Jess all about her journey and what's in story next...
Who/What inspired you to have your own swimwear line?
I first got the idea for Scrunchy Bum when I was in Miami, surrounded by beautiful bikinis that were totally unique from any I had ever seen in the UK – they all carried the “scrunch butt” design which is a Brazilian cut brief with a ruched middle and heart shaped back that instantly flatters your derriere. When I got home I tried to buy them but I couldn’t find a UK shop that stocked the product so I bought from America and what a disappointment! A six week wait for delivery and import tax on top! My friends were having the same problem so I saw the demand but no supplier.
My inspiration comes my big bootied idols such as Kim Kardashian, J-Lo, Nicki Minaj and Amber Rose as well my favourite holiday destinations where designer swimwear is the new day wear thanks to the rise of the day parties in Ibiza, Marbella and Vegas where there is a strict dress code on pool attire.
If you could dress anyone in the world in your designs who would it be?
I would love to see Rhianna in my Medusa one piece because she is so bad ass and exactly the type of girl I would imagine wearing my brand with confidence in some fabulous location looking smoking hot!
Rhianna embodies what I want my brand to represent which is something fashion forward, that lets women show off their bodies, feel sexy and confident, glamorous, flirty and fun all at the same time.
Name a song that represents your brand and why?
“Bootylicious” by Beyonce because Scrunchy Bum is all about dat ass! The song always gets everyone up and dancing and shaking their bums and having a good time. Also, Beyonce is God need I say more!
Have you got any advice for someone who wants to start their own fashion brand?
Yes I have a ton of advice! Really do your research and put yourself out there, don’t just ask your family and friends for feedback because they love you and are biased. Instead, ask strangers, ask other people in retail, get work experience, visit material/accessories stores and interact with the buyers and customers to soak up as much information about your product as you can.
I have made millions of mistakes and I had zero background in fashion (unless shopping
counts?!) but mistakes really are how you learn and its okay not to get it right first time. As long as you have a passion for what you are doing it will get you through the tough times.
So, What's next for Scrunchy Bum?
Well I am delighted to be a part of the Rex family and Scrunchy Bum is in the process of
launching a brand new website for May 2016 with all new photographs showcasing the SS16 Goddess Collection.
I am also excited to announce that Scrunchy Bum will feature in Cosmopolitan magazine online on 29 May 2016.
Ultimately I want to revolutionise the world one bottom at a time!
What made you choose REX and what do you love about our concept store?
Rex is a fantastic platform for independent designers to come together and showcase their products. I think it’s so important now when retail giants are taking over high streets to launch shops like Rex who only stock independents and who give small businesses from Liverpool a chance.
I have sampled so many wonderful products in the store that I may not have had the opportunity to have discovered online or elsewhere. Rex gives you that voice and physical presence.
Follow Scrunchy Bum on twitter here!