Nicole Williams English’s journey from a small-town girl in Paradise, Newfoundland, to a renowned model and entrepreneur is truly inspiring. Growing up, Nicole was captivated by fashion, often cutting out magazine pictures and dreaming of a life in the industry. Her mother, a talented seamstress, taught her to sew at a young age, sparking Nicole’s passion for design. This early exposure laid the foundation for her future endeavors in both modeling and fashion design.
At 14, Nicole’s life took a pivotal turn when her family moved to Toronto. This relocation opened up numerous opportunities in the modeling world. She signed with Next Model Management and began building her career. Recognizing the potential for greater exposure, Nicole later moved to New York City to further immerse herself in the modeling scene. Her dedication and perseverance paid off, leading to significant work in swimwear and lingerie, areas where she felt most confident and experienced.
In 2017, combining her modeling insights and design skills, Nicole launched her luxury swimwear line, Nia Lynn. Named after her mother and niece, the brand reflects her commitment to empowering women. Nicole’s goal was to create swimwear that makes women feel confident and comfortable, addressing the common challenges many face when selecting such attire. She meticulously focused on fit and design, ensuring each piece resonated with her vision of embracing all body types.
Nicole’s personal life also flourished during this period. She married former NFL player Larry English, and their relationship became a source of strength and inspiration for her. In July 2022, during Miami Swim Week, Nicole made headlines by revealing her pregnancy on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway. She wore a metallic gold one-piece from her collection, with “ROOKIE” emblazoned across the chest, proudly showcasing her baby bump. This moment was not only a personal milestone but also a statement about embracing motherhood while maintaining a thriving career.
Her collaboration with Sports Illustrated didn’t end there. Nicole was named a 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie, a dream she had harbored for over two decades. Reflecting on this achievement, she expressed disbelief and joy, emphasizing the importance of persistence and positive thinking. This recognition was a testament to her unwavering dedication and the culmination of years of hard work.
In May 2023, Nicole expanded her brand’s reach by launching a 12-piece collection in collaboration with Sports Illustrated Swim, in partnership with Reunited Clothing. The collection featured chic designs, including her iconic metallic “ROOKIE” one-piece, catering to a diverse audience. Nicole’s hands-on approach ensured that each piece met her high standards of quality and style.
Balancing her roles as a new mother and entrepreneur, Nicole continued to inspire many. She and Larry welcomed their daughter, India Moon English, in January 2023. Embracing motherhood added a new dimension to Nicole’s life, influencing her designs and business approach. She aimed to set an example for her daughter, demonstrating that it’s possible to pursue one’s passions while nurturing a family.
Nicole’s story is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. From sewing clothes for her dolls to gracing international runways and launching her own brand, she has come full circle. Her journey underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to one’s vision. Nicole Williams English has not only carved a niche for herself in the fashion industry but has also become a role model for aspiring designers and models worldwide.
Her future endeavors hold promise, with plans to expand Nia Lynn and explore new collaborations. Nicole remains committed to creating designs that empower women, drawing from her own experiences and challenges. Her story serves as a reminder that with passion and perseverance, one can turn dreams into reality, no matter the obstacles.
