Fashion designer and Southern California native Trina Turk is known for her colorful and playful design aesthetic. Inspired by the region’s “cultural mix, creativity, architecture, and landscape,” Turk infuses her apparel and home designs with bold, contemporary prints and vibrant, saturated hues. Here, the part-time resident shares what she loves about Newport Beach, why she opened a boutique here, and what’s in style this summer.

You opened your fourth boutique in Fashion Island.
As a native, I wanted to expand beyond Los Angeles and Palm Springs. The Trina Turk brand is inspired by and represents the lifestyle of California, so the [store] was a perfect fit for the beach culture of Newport Beach — and I thought Fashion Island was the ideal location.

What will we see in the Trina Turk Swim collection this summer?
Our latest collection is inspired by French Polynesia — tropical islands encircled by coral reefs and vibrant colored lagoons. Expect fresh, bright colors (flamingo, orange, ocean blue, jungle green) in pop prints (palms, batik stripe). Flirty crop tops, twist bandeaus, shirred side hipsters, and one-pieces are important silhouettes this season. Cover-ups complete the beach look. We are especially excited about our rompers and jumpsuits, also made from our swim fabric.

Is there a difference between a beach swimsuit and a poolside swimsuit?
Our main focus is on a great fit, and I think that any Trina Turk swimsuit can go from the pool to the beach.

What is the biggest swimsuit faux pas you see men and women make when choosing swimwear?
Buying pieces that are too tight — if elastic is digging in, it makes you look bigger.

What are the rules for finding a figure-flattering swimsuit?
Figure out your body type and choose a silhouette to flatter it best. A knowledgeable sales associate can be your biggest asset in the search for the perfect suit. For a smaller bust line, a padded style, ruffles, or horizontal stripes will add volume. Also, triangle bikini tops really look best on smaller-busted women. If you’re busty, choose support with a halter that has a band under the bust and a wider strap that ties behind your neck; a one-piece with a V-neckline; or an underwire. To minimize your booty, a lower rise cut or rings on the sides give the illusion of smaller hips. Another trick is to wear bottoms in a darker color with a top in a lighter color — dark always minimizes. If you really want hip coverage, go for a sash bottom or a boy short. And to completely distract from your hips, opt for a one-piece with a plunge V-neckline.

What’s the best piece of fashion advice you’ve been given?
Don’t take yourself too seriously — in fashion or in life!

At what beach in Newport will we find you?
I love Crystal Cove State Beach.

What are the top five items in your beach tote?
—Neutrogena SPF 45 sunscreen with helioplex
—A wide-brim hat
—Oversized sunglasses
—A Trina Turk beach towel in a “fun” color
—Interior design and fashion magazines

Where in Newport Beach do you like to shop and dine?
Fashion Island: The specialty shops, department stores, and cafes set within the open-air plaza offer a shopping experience that is relaxed, sophisticated, and distinctly Southern California. For dinner I like Mozza [near A’maree’s], which is located in a really cool midcentury modern building.

What must-see places in Newport Beach would you recommend to a friend who is visiting the area?
I’d suggest taking a walk through the art galleries around Pacific Coast Highway.

Photo Credit of Slider Image: Photo Enigmatic Fine Art & Photography