Mindy Kaling on Her First-Ever Swim Collection and Feeling Confident at the Beach

Published on May 11, 2023 at 3:50 PM

Mindy Kaling has partnered with body-inclusive, ethically candid brand Andie Swim on a fresh line of swimsuits for the summer ahead. Mindy x Andie includes 33 different pieces that were designed in collaboration, with a mix of Kaling's favorite silhouettes, fabrics, and colors — all of which she's very familiar with since she's been a longtime label devotee.

"For swimwear, I always need both comfort and style — neither is negotiable."

Kaling was sure to work in structured maillots (since they make her feel most confident) while also experimenting with balconette bras and textural, high-leg bottoms. "For swimwear, I always need both comfort and style — neither is negotiable," she told POPSUGAR exclusively via interview ahead of the launch on May 10. The entire range retails from $52-$128 on AndieSwim.com, though the 43-year-old mom of two is likely to post many of her favorite looks on Instagram, as she's known to do with her most colorful outfits.

Kaling, who was recently honored with the National Medal of Arts at the White House on March 21, is consistently celebrated for her work in television and as an author. The "Never Have I Ever" producer was also the recipient of the prestigious Norman Lear Award at the Producer Guild of America Awards in February. So swimwear designer is just one of the many accolades she now boasts on her résumé.

From a fashion perspective, Kaling most recently worked with Jonathan Simkhai on her 2023 Met Gala red carpet look, which featured a structural peplum corset that dropped elegantly into a floor-sweeping train and was layered over a sequin-beaded column skirt. She finished the ensemble with jewelry by Fred Leighton and Kwiat, a Jennifer Behr crystal ponytail holder, and Giuseppe Zanotti shoes at the "Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty"-themed ball. While we're used to seeing her share snippets from glamorous events such as these, the Mindy x Andie news should lead her to introduce a lot more casual, season-friendly beachwear to her feed, beginning and ending with her favorites from the collection.

Ahead, read POPSUGAR's full interview with Kaling to find out which specific swim silhouettes you're bound to see her rocking.

Mindy Kaling on Designing Her First Swim Collection

POPSUGAR: This is your first swimsuit collaboration. What was most important for you to feature, whether it be a specific silhouette, colorway, or something else?

Mindy Kaling: I love jewel tones and yellow, so it was a dream to incorporate those colors into the collab. I've also had two kids, and there are specific silhouettes that work with my body that make me feel confident. Andie has always made the most flattering suits, and it was so exciting to work with them to craft my very own versions of their amazing swimwear.

Mindy Kaling on Her Favorite Swimsuit Silhouette

PS: What is your personal favorite swimsuit silhouette, and how did you weave it into the collection?

MK: My favorite silhouette changes depending on the day, but nothing beats a well-made, well-fitting one-piece. For swimwear, I always need both comfort and style — neither is negotiable. Since Andie has been my go-to swim brand for the past few years, my favorites have been the Amalfi and Malibu [shown above]. I brought these styles into the collection in fun new colors.

Mindy Kaling on Finding the Right Swimsuit Color

PS: You're such a colorful person and have always experimented with the color wheel. In your opinion, how does one go about finding the right swimsuit color to fit their personality?

MK: That's such a nice compliment! I do love color, and I think it's one of the ways I express my personal style. Swim is a really great opportunity to have fun and play around with color, so I'd recommend trying shades you might not wear in your everyday life. Although, I must say, I also love a black swimsuit. I think it can be really chic. So I had to include that as well.

Mindy Kaling on the Most Surprising Pieces in the Collection

PS: Were you delightfully surprised or particularly inspired by any of the pieces after trying them on?

MK: We worked on the collection for over a year, and I tried each iteration of the designs for fit, so I wasn't too surprised by anything in particular. But I did love how the dress and cardigan work as clothes in real life and on the beach.

Mindy Kaling on Feeling Confident in a Swimsuit

PS: Have any tips for feeling confident in a swimsuit this summer at the beach?

MK: Find what feels good on your body and express your personal style. When I can express myself and put together an outfit I feel is really me, that's when I'm most confident.