How Leilanni makes stylish and seriously saucy swimwear from scratch

Designer Leilanni Todd creates quirky waterwear for beach-goers who want more sass in their swimsuits. For her debut collection last year, she whipped up a batch of Baywatch-style one-pieces, bandeau bras and high-waisted bottoms, each one printed with original designs from local artists—including a raunchy tropical scene from Clay Hickson and Instagrammable “Yes!” mantras from local artist Rcade ($200 for this one-piece):

She works out of a downtown studio, which resembles a plant-filled jungle: “Anything you’d associate with tropical vacations is there—I even have flamingo blow-up toys.” The spring 2016 collection is a kaleidoscope of separates in Easter-egg pastels (peach, lavender, rose) meant for mixing and matching. The suits, which start at $95 for a bandeau top, are available online or at the Dundas West boutique Easy Tiger.

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