Featuring Original Haitian Art and Supporting Women’s Health & Livelihood Programs in Haiti

SOURCE Yanvalou Designs

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, April 26, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — Yanvalou Designs (www.yanvalou.com) announces its 2016 collection of reversible swimwear, coverups, and accessories showcasing original Haitian art licensed from Haitian master, Frantz Zephirin, and emerging artists, Pizaro and Ras Kimy. Zephirin is one of Haiti’s most internationally renowned contemporary artists and his works have been featured on the covers of The New Yorker and Smithsonian Magazine. Proceeds benefit the artists via royalties and help Yanvalou Designs support women’s health & livelihood programs in Haiti. Yanvalou (yon-va-LOO) is a traditional Haitian rhythm and dance.

Inspired by Haiti’s rich cultural heritage and the indelible spirit of her people, Yanvalou Beach’s bright motifs are drawn from Haitian market scenes, mysticism, and abstract naturalist themes. The key colors in the collection are rich sienna and red tones, deep blues and greens, and classic black & white.

The collection has ten styles including reversible bikinis and one-pieces, coverups, pareos, and scarves. Seven unique prints were developed and all swimwear is reversible print and solid. Zephirin’s prints reflect Haiti’s deeply mystical culture and include The Yanvalou Gods, Adam & Eve, and Guardian Eye. Pizaro and Ras Kimy’s works channel the vibrancy and bustle of Haitian daily life and Haiti’s strong connection to the land and nature. Pizaro’s prints include Birds of Paradise and Les Marchandes, and our Population print is by Ras Kimy.

The collection is available online at www.yanvalou.com and will be updated yearly with new prints and styles. The price point for the collection is $100-$200. Follow @YanvalouDesigns on Instagram and Facebook.

ABOUT YANVALOU DESIGNS: Yanvalou Designs was founded by Ben Wilson as a market-based approach to development challenges in Haiti. After 20 years in corporate development and finance, Ben came to Haiti to work in earthquake reconstruction. Inspired by the spirit of the Haitian people, the natural beauty of the country, and the depth of its culture, Ben set out to create a unique beachwear collection and a brand that showcases everything this beautiful country has to offer. Yanvalou Designs also invests in Haiti to build local operations and raise the global profile of the Haitian fashion industry.

 

IMAGES:

Adam & Eve Cutout One-Piece / Print by Frantz Zephirin

Les Marchandes String Bikini & Pareo / Print by Pizaro