PHOTOGRAPHY MANI ZARRIN
IN HER SHOES
FROM HEAVENLY HEELS TO SUMPTUOUS SWIMWEAR, ktb is transforming the
way we see resort wear—and ourselves.
T
ara Bryan Burner has been creating heavenly heels for more
swimwear that meets the needs of 30-40-year-old fashionable women.
than a decade. Now, she’s turning her expertise to swimwear
There is an abundance of swimwear designed for young surfer girls,
with the launch of KTB—Kill the Buddha. Featuring
and women in their twenties. There is also a lot of brands that target
figure-flattering silhouettes and eye-catching designs, these
older women, that promise to tuck and flatten, but feel like a girdle
creations are all about hitting the beach in style—and comfort.
or are just too much coverage and not enough attitude! My goal is to
design a line that is sexy and stylish, while taking into consideration
It’s such a long journey from concept to creation, what’s been
the differences that make each one of our bodies unique and beautiful.
the most humbling experience launching KTB? For me, that
Also, KTB swimwear offers pieces like our Bohdi swim necklace, an
was admitting that I can’t do everything. I went into this with a clear
original design that can be worn by itself for the more daring woman,
vision of what I wanted my brand to look like, and who my customer
or as a layering piece. We want our swimwear to be playful, versatile
is. What I learned quickly was that starting a label is so much more
and beautiful.
than just making great items, but rather about creating a cohesive line
of product with a powerful message that is obvious to the consumer.
How would you want women to feel in KTB? I want our women
It wasn’t until I accepted the fact that I didn’t know everything, and
to feel empowered, confident, and sexy while comfortable in KTB. We
connected with individuals that had skill sets I lacked, that I started to
know she is hardworking, and we want her time in a swimsuit to be
see my brand come together in a way that matched my vision.
spent relaxing, having fun and feeling like her best self. Our message
is: “Embrace your beautiful.” Our goal, to remind her she is, one
How do you think your designs stand out in the competitive
world of swimwear? I think there is a real void in the market for
HEAVEN HAS HEELS summer 2016 | @HHHEELS
swimsuit at a time. KTBSwimwear.com — A.G.