Devin Brugman’s journey from a college student to a social media influencer and successful entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. Alongside her best friend Natasha Oakley, she turned a shared passion for fashion and fitness into a booming business empire. From the launch of A Bikini A Day to cofounding the multimillion-dollar swimwear line Monday Swimwear, Devin’s story is a testament to hard work, creativity, and determination.
Devin Brugman met Natasha Oakley during her college years in Los Angeles, where she had moved from her native Hawaii. While Devin pursued her studies in photography and marketing, Natasha, originally from Australia, was running her production company in the same city. The two had initially connected through Facebook, but their friendship quickly blossomed into a partnership that would change their lives.
Devin began assisting Natasha on photo shoots whenever she had breaks from school. Their shared interest in creativity and fashion led them to experiment with their own photo shoots, capturing their love for bikinis and beachwear. These informal sessions eventually became the foundation for A Bikini A Day, a blog they launched in 2012.
What began as a fun project for two friends soon gained traction online. A Bikini A Day resonated with audiences who loved the duo’s authentic approach to showcasing swimwear and beachwear. Devin and Natasha didn’t just post pictures; they shared stories, styling tips, and insights into their favorite brands.
As the blog’s following grew, it opened doors the two hadn’t anticipated. They began partnering with brands for advertising opportunities and collaborations. “We realized that we could make money doing what we loved,” Devin shared, highlighting the moment they turned their passion project into a legitimate business.
The platform also skyrocketed their social media presence. Devin’s personal Instagram account, for example, now boasts over 1.3 million followers. This online visibility played a critical role in building the next phase of their career.
In 2014, Devin and Natasha took their love for bikinis to the next level by launching Monday Swimwear. The brand started with a modest $30,000 loan but quickly became a multimillion-dollar enterprise. Devin credits much of their success to their ability to connect directly with customers through social media platforms like Instagram.
Monday Swimwear was born out of a desire to create swimwear that celebrated all body types. Devin and Natasha wanted their products to make women feel confident and comfortable. Their designs emphasize fit, quality, and timeless style, which has earned them a loyal customer base.
The brand’s marketing strategy is deeply rooted in Instagram. Devin explained that they use the platform not just to showcase their products but also to share inspirational imagery, collaborate with influencers, and engage with their audience. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Bella Hadid, and Kendall Jenner have been spotted wearing Monday Swimwear, further cementing its reputation as a must-have brand.
Instagram has been a game-changer for Devin Brugman. It has allowed her to grow her personal brand while simultaneously building Monday Swimwear. Devin uses the platform to share fitness tips, travel diaries, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work life, all while staying true to her authentic self.
“I’ve always tried to share things that resonate with me,” Devin said, explaining her approach to social media. This honesty and relatability have helped her build a strong connection with her followers.
Instagram has also been vital for Monday Swimwear’s growth. By collaborating with influencers and showcasing aspirational content, the brand has managed to maintain a consistent and appealing aesthetic.
Like any business, Monday Swimwear has faced its share of challenges. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their plans, Devin and Natasha had to quickly adapt. They canceled travel plans and shifted their focus to virtual collaborations with influencers and creatives.
This pivot proved successful, as the brand continued to thrive despite the uncertain circumstances. Devin emphasized the importance of building strong relationships within the industry, whether it’s with influencers, creatives, or other brands that align with Monday Swimwear’s values.
One of the standout achievements of Monday Swimwear is its high rate of returning customers—over 40%. Devin attributes this to their commitment to excellent customer support and consistent quality.
As the brand grows, Devin’s focus remains on maintaining Monday’s positive image. She works closely with the company’s PR team to set yearly goals and ensure that their messaging aligns with their values.
Devin Brugman’s entrepreneurial spirit shows no signs of slowing down. While much of her time is dedicated to Monday Swimwear, she is always thinking about the future. She hopes to explore new ventures while continuing to grow her personal brand and her business.
Devin’s ability to adapt and evolve has been key to her success. Whether it’s launching a new product line, collaborating with high-profile celebrities, or connecting with her audience on Instagram, she approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and creativity.
Devin Brugman’s journey is an inspiration for anyone looking to turn their passion into a career. Her story highlights the importance of taking risks, staying authentic, and embracing change.
From her college days of assisting on photo shoots to leading a multimillion-dollar swimwear brand, Devin has shown that success is achievable with hard work and a clear vision. For her, the key is simple: love what you do, and the rest will follow.
