Strand Stories – Dept. of Swim

Dept. of Swim may be a new addition to The Strand’s boutique retail stores, but behind the brand is a history that stretches back more than three decades with the local area.

Before creating a new look store and new brand identity at The Strand, Dept. of Swim traded as Hot Gossip in Coolangatta’s Griffith St for over 30 years.

With a finger on the pulse of Coolangatta lifestyle, swimwear and fashion, store manager Kylie Finlay says its the laid back holiday atmosphere and year-round sunshine that play a big part in what fashion trends work.
“Being a local independently owned business, our customers will find lots of choice in fashionable women’s clothing suitable for our beautiful Queensland climate – even over the change of seasons,” says Kylie.  

Their main focus is having a well-stocked range of swimwear all year round for local and visiting interstate and overseas customers.

Dept. of Swim is the exclusive stockist of Finch Swimwear on the southern Gold Coast – a label that has been designing and manufacturing quality swimwear in Burleigh Heads since 1980.

Even during the cooler months, it’s no surprise customers flock to Dept. of Swim for their range of stylish casual resort wear and accessories.

Kylie says after the summer revival of 70’s inspired fashion, the winter months are moving a little into retro 1980’s.

Fashions trends will see the revival of big shoulders in shirts, jackets and coats. Flattering wraparound designs in dresses tops and coats will complement print trends including animal prints and tones, pretty florals inspired by Japanese cherry blossoms and luxe fabrics, lace, velvet, swede, leather, metallic and shine.

To shop the latest styles and year-round swimwear designs, visit Dept. of Swim on the Ground Level near the Griffith St entrance at The Strand at Coolangatta.