Meet the Designer

Hello, I’m Dulce, of Mexican descent, the founder and designer of Papaya Forest. Allow me to share a bit about myself and why I started this brand. I’ve always been a creative person with a genuine passion for fashion.

I enrolled to the Academy of Arts University in San Francisco shortly after graduating from high school and ventured to Paris after completing university, all to fulfill my lifelong dream. I learned a lot about French and international fashion, but for the most part, I felt dissatisfied with how the industry is run. From unfavorable working conditions in workshops to the pollution brought about by fast fashion, made with synthetic fabrics, there are many ways in which I feel the modern industry can set an example for our future. So, the idea was to create a brand that roots its foundation in a concept to present solutions.

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Our Values

Here, one of our core principles is that we always opt for natural fiber fabrics. Our swimsuits, for example, are made from a blend of hemp and organic cotton, employing a minimal amount of spandex (3%), necessary to maintain the shape of the suits when wet. We manufacture everything in our studio and collaborate with Maya-rooted seamstresses, always ensuring fair production prices. Thus, every person who buys from Papaya Forest contributes to the quality of life of the indigenous people involved in its production.

Curating the Collection

The concept behind creating and designing this women’s capsule collection revolves around minimalist and sensual lines, utilizing fine-touch fabrics and natural fibers. Colors draw inspiration from the lush jungle surrounding the seven-color blue lagoon of Bacalar, ranging from deep blues to aqua greens. The garments, framed in an atmosphere of relaxation and contemplation of the elements—sun, earth, wind, and water—are conceived as elements of gentle care and should be hand-washed with organic soap, contributing to the well-being of our planet Earth.

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Multicolumn

  • Kim Guerra

    I’m a repeat customer! These are by far my favorite bathing suits. The material feels and looks great. They are also environmentally friendly which makes them even sexier!

  • Galareh Good

    Dulce is a local designer and conscious creator weaving ecologically beautiful and versatile swimsuits and activewear that are unique, comfortable, flattering and fashionable for all! It was a pleasure meeting her in her workshop and witnessing a magical artist in alignment with her personal vision and of the collective world.

  • Aime Sawers

    Probably the best swimsuit I've worn in a while, love the way it just hugs your body👙 the shop is so cool because you can actually see where Dulce makes these beautiful swimsuits, she's such a darling! ✨
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