Today we’d like to introduce you to Doris Diaz Mccandless.
Hi Doris, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started designing at age 17 by accident. I was actually joining a local pageant back in my home town of Cavite in the Philippines. At that time, I didn’t know that there was a swimsuit portion so I went to the thrift store few days before the pageant and found a very nice four way stretch fabric and turn it into swimwear, sew all by hand! I was lucky to win that said competition and represent our small city into a bigger pageant. From then on… I started wearing my own creations to more fashion shows and swimwear competition events. After many fashion shows, people started recognizing my designs and asked me how then could obtain theirs, and that was the time that I.Y.O. Swimwear was born. I.Y.O., pronounced as Eee-yo, is a Filipino word that means “Yours, For you or made for you.” I believe that we are all unique, from our personalities, our body types, and to what color makes us happy and feel like represents us the most. I’ve always wanted something unique, something special, something that represents me.
So far, I have created more than 2,000 pairs of customized swimsuits. Ranges from a simple two-piece and all the way to intricate designs that can be worn in high fashion photoshoots. I got to where I am today because of my passion and dedication to my art. I feel like every piece is like a painting. All the details, the time and the effort that was put together to create something so beautiful make my heart happy. Every time I see women smile because something was made for them that gives them confidence and made them feel special, it drives me to go even further with my creations.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
How I wish it was a smooth road. When I moved to the US 11 years ago, I had to start over again. I initially lived in a small town, and I didn’t know where I could find materials for my designs, clientele, and how I can get the word out. When I decided to move to Austin in late 2012, I got into the automotive business, which was totally different than what I had set my mind to do. The automotive industry definitely was time-consuming, but I learned so much… I got to know the area really well and was able to connect again with local people that were part of the fashion industry and found my spark back. Now I am working on new designs and very excited about upcoming events.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a chief designer and CEO of I.Y.O. Swimwear based in the Austin area. I specialize in custom made swimwear. I believe people know me as a very professional creative person with the sky’s the limit design ideas. I’m proud of who I became as a person, from a very humble beginning, for being down to earth and for having a good energy to be around and the vibe I give out to people, to my work ethic and my passion for creating something uniquely timeless and classy. What sets me apart is my attention to every detail, my multi-cultural background, my listening skills, understanding what’s important for clients, what make them comfortable, and my ability to take constructive criticism and turn that into positive outlook, and for being a forever student that never gets tired to learn something new.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I like its vibrant feel: the community and the people. Even though Austin is growing fast, it still feels like a small town. I love food varieties! The least that I like is the parking areas! Especially downtown.
Pricing:
- $100-$750
Contact Info:
- Email: info@iyoswimwear.design
- Website: www.iyoswimwear.design
- Instagram: @iyoswimwear
- Facebook: http://www.iyoswimwear.design
Image Credits
Doug Douglas Tim Bear Austin Fashion Week
