10 Questions with Demi Raquel Thomas of La Chenille Bridal
Designer Demi Raquel Thomas
1) Tell us about your background. where did you get your start, when did you launch your BUSINESS?
Over a decade ago, I launched my first nationwide fashion accessories startup brand and traveled frequently to China, developing strategic partnerships to build and grow a fashion brand. I created and implemented a business structural platform to lead my team, consisting of business management, creative professionals, product development and manufacturing alliances for nationwide distribution projects.
My products were marketed and sold to some of the largest mainstream retailers nationwide. At the time I developed an array of fashion products and accessories where my voice, designs, and creative strategy were praised in the wholesale and B2C markets. As a creative innovator and entrepreneur with more than 10 years of experience, My love for world travel has led to business ventures in international manufacturing partnerships, product development, design and creating innovative consumer products in the fashion industry.
La Chenille Bridal Bikini was founded back in 2018 were the idea materialized and then product development to concept. In 2019 the company was officially established. In 2021, a pop-up launch party event unveiling the new collection took place in New York. The company was about to launch in the spring of 2020 but Covid created delays and the new collection was launched a year later.
2) Where are you based?
We’re currently bicoastal. We launched in Huntington Beach, California and we’re currently also located in New York.
3) What inspired you to design a luxury swimwear collection for Brides?
The entire experience needs to be elevated. It was important to me to design one-of-a-kind pieces that would help elevate the entire bridal experience. Instead of brides simply going to a department store for swimwear and choosing a white suit or coverup, I want brides to have the option for a luxurious look that makes them feel as special as a traditional wedding gown might.
4) Describe the aesthetic of the brand and all you offer.
I am thirsty for inspiration in the little things each day and it gives me so much desire to create. Inspiration can come from anything from nature, music, colors, etc. There’s so much beauty in so many things we just have to look for it. The current collection “Coastal De La Casa” meaning home, inspired me from beautiful architecture of famous destination villas throughout the world. Each piece in this collection is named after a world-renowned villa. The perfect place for a destination wedding.
My passion for wanting to present something new and unique to the world, something that no one else was doing, led me to establish a whole new product category. I want to elevate the beach wedding experience and I also want our brides to have something special and exclusive and to feel empowered. In addition to swimwear, we crafted delicately beaded coverups, hair accessories and a patent pending detachable bridal train to uplevel your luxury beachside bridal look. We’re a lifestyle brand for destination brides and new fashion category called 'luxury bridal swimwear' was launched.
5) Describe the fabrics, fit and specialty.
Exclusive bridal swimwear and first off-the-rack, ready-to-wear pieces — no need for tailoring our perfect-fit 2-way and 4-way stretch swimsuits and handcrafted romantic cover-ups. Our fabrics are imported from all over the world and we specialize and development of the following fabrics; crystal emblazoned tulle, handmade floral appliques, taffeta lame, shimmering organza, charmeuse satin, beaded crystal and pearls, etc.
6) Is this made to order?
Yes, various pieces are made to order because selected pieces, trim and fabric is handcrafted and the embellishments are customized and imported.
7) Do brides marry in these looks or is it for celebrations around the wedding events such as honeymoon?
Yes, and for example our Serena crystal sheer dress is the perfect coverup dress to walk down the aisle, during a hot tropical day at the beach. The Gen Z and Millennial bride is currently the alternative bride and they want something new and luxurious. They want as many as 5 looks during their wedding day alone, from ceremony, reception, 1st dance, cake cutting, dance party, after party, etc.
8) Do you have a favorite beach you recommend for a destination wedding?
Hawaii is my favorite. It’s very beautiful, romantic and magical. Honolulu, Maui and Kauai are the perfect beach wedding destinations. I love Hawaii and everything it has to offer.
9) What does “La Chenille” mean?
In French, "la chenille" means caterpillar. A caterpillar symbolizes transformation and emerging anew — beginning a glorious new life. So, we named our brand to reflect a feeling of positive change and bold empowerment.
10) Where do brides find your bathing suits and cover up?
On our website at www.lachenillebridalbikini.com. We’ll ALso be in selected retailers coming soon!
