PARAISO Meets the Co-Founder of Hunza G, Georgiana Huddart

When Georgiana Huddart and the original founder of Hunza G, Peter Meadows relaunched the womenswear label in 2015, they were starting from zero. Originally established in the ‘80s, Hunza G became famous for a cutout mini dress Julia Roberts wore in Pretty Woman, but they had stopped making swimsuits for nearly 25 years.  

Georgiana knew that nostalgia is a powerful incentive in general, not just fashion, and decided to use the same fabric that was a collection signature. Fast forward and they have grown to become a strong brand, establishing a swimwear aesthetic of elegant silhouettes, made out of sculpting seersucker fabric. Hunza G’s list of tier one stockists, from Net-A-Porter online to Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and Selfridges, distinctly presents its commercial success.

When Georgiana Huddart and original founder Peter Meadows relaunched Hunza G, they were starting from zero. The label, which first made waves in the ‘80s with the iconic cutout mini dress worn by Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, had not produced swimwear for nearly 25 years. “We saw an opportunity to revive a brand that had a rich history while also bringing it into the modern era,” Huddart reflects.

Recognizing the powerful pull of nostalgia—not just in fashion but in lifestyle—Huddart decided to reintroduce the brand’s signature fabric, a unique seersucker known for its flattering stretch. Fast forward, and Hunza G has established itself as a leader in the swimwear market, known for elegant silhouettes crafted from this sculpting fabric.

The brand's commercial success is evident in its impressive roster of tier-one stockists, including Net-A-Porter, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, and Selfridges. As the swimwear market continues to evolve, Hunza G’s focus on versatile, flattering designs has captured the attention of both fashion insiders and consumers alike.

This year, the brand has further expanded its influence through exciting collaborations, including a notable partnership with Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. The model and entrepreneur shares her enthusiasm for Hunza G’s ethos, stating, “I came across the brand back in 2018, and I was instantly impressed by this beautifully stretched crinkle fabric.”

Under Huddart's creative direction, Hunza G has cultivated a swimwear aesthetic characterized by minimalist yet striking designs that cater to a diverse range of body types. “It’s a brand that’s meant to go on a journey with your body,” Huddart says, emphasizing inclusivity and body positivity in today’s fashion landscape.

As for future projects, Huddart mentions, “We’re working on our Resort Collection, but it’s currently on hold until we have a clearer picture of store budgets and the overall market. I’ve never been hugely into fast fashion; the idea that something less than six months old becomes ‘old season’ is crazy to me. Six months isn’t long enough for people to fully enjoy a piece.”

Hunza G remains committed to a personal touch with its customers. “We’re really old school,” Huddart explains. “Everything is made by hand in the UK, packed by humans, and we encourage direct communication. People often show up at our studio unannounced because we’re centrally located in London.”

In navigating challenges, Huddart advises those in the swimwear industry to focus on functionality alongside aesthetics. “Work hard, and always think about the body and what you need to swim comfortably in a garment. Don’t just design something pretty!”

The recent collaboration with Huntington-Whiteley showcases an exquisite blend of timeless colors and modern cuts. “I like a pop of color for swimwear; that’s where I can be a bit more adventurous and playful,” Huntington-Whiteley adds, emphasizing the brand’s ability to adapt to the wearer’s lifestyle and preferences.

As the swimwear market faces new challenges and demands, Hunza G’s innovative approach and commitment to quality fabric ensure that it remains a standout player. With a strong foundation built on nostalgia and a forward-thinking vision, Hunza G is not just reviving a brand; it’s redefining swimwear for a new generation. The last time PARAISO connected with Huddart, she revealed her personal style favorites a dress by Gul Hurgel and a chic design from Vincente Ganesha.