by Erika Togashi May 14, 2024 3 min read 1 Comment
She’s the talented artist behind our Sun Ray print ─Lauryn Alvarez is known for her soulful artworks inspired by Southern California's landscapes.
Lauryn she shares insights into her artistic process, the inspiration behind her designs, and how her surroundings influence her artwork.

Can you share with us what initially sparked your passion for art and led you on the journey to becoming a professional artist?
My interest in art began as early as I can remember. Creating art has always been apart of who I am. I knew from a young age I always wanted to be an artist, whatever that looked like. I dabbled in various forms of creative expression as a child. I made drawings, painted, sculpted, sewed, filmed videos, took photos, wrote stories.
Being a professional artist really came natural to me. I would share my work on social media and people were interested in it and wanted more. It took a leap of faith pursuing art full time and it’s not always easy but I’m very grateful for this journey I’m on.
Describe a typical day in your life, from your creative process to how you find moments of inspiration?
I then try and get out in the early afternoon to catch some sunshine and enjoy nature.
I find it so crucial to my creative process and well-being in general to prioritize being outside as much as possible.

Share three things you love about living in Southern California?
Are you into surfing or other outdoor activities? Share your favorites with us!
Surfing and hiking are my go to outdoor activities! These both bring me so much joy and peace and are also such great bonding moments doing these things with people I love.
Is there a travel destination where you always head to recharge?
I love spending time in Santa Barbara. It’s not too far and it’s so beautiful.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are looking to establish themselves in the art world?

Comments will be approved before showing up.
by Charlotta Linder September 01, 2025 2 min read
Most swimwear lasts one summer. SEPTEMBER suits are different — designed for longevity, made with recycled Italian fabric, and trusted by surfers for over 3 years (and counting). Discover why timeless swimwear is the smartest, most sustainable choice you can make.
by Charlotta Linder June 19, 2025 1 min read
A short Q&A with Dana Hamann—surfer, retreat host, and co-creator of DanceLightly Surf & Awareness Retreats. We chat about what inspired her journey, life in Lombok, and her deep connection to the ocean.
by Charlotta Linder May 20, 2025 3 min read
Erika and Nat discuss the SEPTEMBER x Alaia Mentawai collaboration, sharing their creative journey and what inspired the collection.
You can add a content block like this to your blog article sidebar, and use it for more details about blog authors, for example.
Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more …
I really love the way this print looks with the retro cut. It's super cute for just lounging and hanging out or being more active. The fabric is super sturdy and the coverage is great for whatever activity you decide to part take in. It's my favorite suit of the season :)
I saw someone with this suit and had to order it for myself. I really like the fabric and fit. I’m a 60+ surfer and this suit gives me the support and coverage I need in a suit.
I love this suit. It has the coverage I was looking for, fits so well and the quality is top notch. I bought it for a scuba diving trip and wore it all day. I got a small top and large bottom. Would recommend!
This suit literally feels so good. The fabric is so beautiful and feel so hugged and supported. Doesn't move an inch while surfing!! I also just feel so girly being able to surf in a two piece. I normally have to surf in a one piece.. but this magic suit makes it possible to tan my tummy during my surf session. Just came home from a surf trip and it was almost like any other suit I brought didn't exist because I wore this one everyday.
I have this in basically every color. It's my ride or die bottom for coverage, protection and comfort.
My chest is always the first thing to burn on my body. I've been so good about protecting my face and not as vigilant about my chest and neck-- until now. This top is so cute and also very functional. I put it on sometimes mid-beach day when I feel the sun is cooking me most. I also like how it has the thumb hooks so you can protect your hands, too. I have this in multiple colors. I really like the fabric of the "Olive Eco Rib" color most. It's the most durable. I've taken it to Mexico in pretty solid surf and it stays put. It's nice to throw in your surf bag for travel incase of jellyfish or sea-lice since it will protect your arms, neck and hands while paddling.
This suit has quickly become a favorite. The coverage is perfect--secure, flattering and comfortable. The material is nice and thick too, so no worries about it being see-through. Comfortable, durable, and stylish for long surf sessions. I had been looking for a white surf suit for a while, since it is such a nice color to film and photograph, but I was concerned I wouldn't find one that offered the right coverage. This suit is up top the task!
I love how it feels and wear. The only thing is it runs small even if it by the size chart in USA measurements. I always wear a size a Medium but when ordering Medium here it runs a bit small so will need to order the next size up
Stumbled across this suit at the Xanadu surf shop on Lombok and loved the green bean print! But ahh the fit is amazing. Truly one of the first surf bikinis that I feel confident wont fly off if I get hit by a big wave. I bought the same style in red too! So cute and *actually functional!
Ahh I'm obsessed. Truly one of the first surf bikinis that I can feel confident wont fly off! I have the matching top and bottom and cannot stop wearing them. I bought the same style in red too! So cute and functional!
The made of this bottom is just perfect…fabric felt soft and smooth while hugging the body perfectly. It’s a modest coverage but still had me feeling free and not restricted in the hips area while surfing! Love love love this:)
The cutting of the top is flattering and felt so secured during my surf session. The print is just perfect. 10/10
If you are extremely fair like me but spend hours in the sun this is your top for no more burns. Covering neck,chest and hands has been a game changer for me in the water. I even wear this top mountain biking! Highly recommend if you want a cute and flattering top but want to take care of your skin.
Amazing surf suit bottom that stays snug if you’re spending hours in the water- I’m always skeptical of lighter prints being see through but this pattern is not at all, it’s a thick material but feels light on the skin. Super happy with these bottoms and have already taken them in three surf trips!
i originally bought this because i had burned my bum pretty badly & not only did it prevent this from ever happening again but it stays on perfectly and doesn’t leave a hard tan line. big fan😍😍
Eileen
April 10, 2025
This interview is wonderful. It’s so honest, tender and happens to resonate with me, a woman who is young at heart. Thank you!!