Melissa Odabash was scouted at young age from her hometown in New Jersey, leading to a very successful modelling career which brought her to live in Italy in her early 20’s. While working as a swimwear model there, Melissa noticed a lack in the market for swim styles that she wanted to wear and very quickly decided to launch her own line.
Her first collection was curated with chic solid-colored bikinis, however this soon expanded into beachwear, often inspired by her mother’s 1970’s crochet pieces, before developing and growing the collections to what we know today.
Melissa Odabash relocated once more to London where her brand is now based. The American designer continues to be deeply involved with her brand and the daily operations within it.
Throughout her success as a designer, Melissa continues to support her philanthropic ventures including Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, Prince’s Trust, Kidsco, CHIVA and has partnered with Elton John’s Aids Foundation. In 2015 Melissa launched her debut mastectomy line with the Future Dreams Breast Cancer Charity and she continues to support, partner and champion their cause whenever she can.
Amongst many awards she has received over the years, she was bestowed the honor of receiving the Founder's Award from the WIE and Humanitarian Award from the Future Dreams charity.
