At its core, Melissa Odabash is more than a luxury brand - it is a story of the power of women. Women who inspire. Women who create. Women who lead. As we approach this International Women’s Day, we reflect on a journey shaped by heritage, strengthened by community, and guided by an unwavering commitment to empowering women through design and beyond.

Before founding her eponymous label, Melissa was an international model travelling between the world’s most celebrated coastal destinations. Her earliest fashion influence was her mother; a woman whose innate sense of style left a lasting imprint; Yet behind the glamour, she encountered a frustration familiar to many women - swimwear rarely delivered the perfect fit, support, or confidence desired. 

Rather than accept compromise, she created her own solution. What began as a personal pursuit quickly evolved into a defining shift. From the outset, Melissa designed with empathy: understanding how women want to feel in their bodies, on holiday, in moments of ease and exposure.

Over the years, Melissa Odabash swimwear has been worn by some of the world’s most recognisable women, from supermodels to socialites, musician royalty and even some real royalty too! Each woman distinct in her presence, yet united by a seemingly effortless confidence that mirrors the spirit of the brand.

And beyond the red carpets and sun-drenched paparazzi moments, the true power of the brand lies in our community, entrepreneurs, mothers, creatives, travellers - women who choose versatile pieces that allow them to feel entirely themselves . Because true luxury is not only how something looks - it is how it makes a woman feel - and that has always been the heart of Melissa Odabash.

This year, marks 11 years since the launch of Melissa’s swimwear collection designed for breast cancer survivors, in partnership with Future Dreams. She wanted the women who are going through this struggle to have the opportunity to feel stylish and confident again after a mastectomy.

Future Dreams is a Breast Cancer Charity that recognises that women deserve support, dignity, and hope at every stage of their journey. Aligning with the charity was not simply philanthropic for Melissa, it was instinctive.

For International Womens Day 2026, the Future Dreams charity are holding a silent auction where you could win a stylish vacation bundle donated by Melissa Odabash including a personalised Cap Ferrat Tote, a Jemima Hat and a Panarea One-Piece. All proceeds go towards awareness and aid for Breast Cancer UK. Bids are open now if you would like to get involved!