MELISSA ODABASH

Melissa Odabash was scouted at young age from her hometown in New Jersey, leading to a very successful modelling career which brought her to live in Italy in her early 20’s. While working as a swimwear model there, Melissa noticed a lack in the market for swim styles that she wanted to wear and very quickly decided to launch her own line.

Her first collection was curated with chic solid coloured bikinis, however this soon expanded into beachwear,  often inspired by her Mother’s 1970’s crochet pieces,  before developing and growing the collections to what we know today.

Melissa Odabash relocated once more to London where her brand is now based. The American designer continues to be deeply involved with her brand and the daily operations within it.

Throughout her success as a designer, Melissa continues to support her philanthropic ventures including: Fashion Targets Breast Cancer,   Prince’s Trust,   Kidsco,   CHIVA  and  has partnered with Elton John’s Aids Foundation. In 2015 Melissa launched her debut mastectomy line with the   Future Dreams Breast Cancer Charity and she continues to support, partner and champion their cause whenever she can.

In 2022 Melissa was sworn in as a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) at an official honours presentation at the Tower of London on behalf of his Majesty the King. The long-awaited ceremony comes after the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Her Majesty The Queen appointed Melissa Odabash as an MBE in June of 2021. The honour was awarded in recognition of her services to international swimwear fashion. Amongst many awards she has received over the years, she was also bestowed the honour of receiving  the Founder's Award from the   WIE  and Humanitarian Award from the   Future Dreams cha