A new addition has arrived at Cross Creek Ranch neighboring the Malibu Country Mart, a beloved destination for locals and visitors to shop, dine and soak in Malibu’s breezy atmosphere. Frankies Bikinis has just opened its first flagship store, as announced on their Instagram.
Frankies Bikinis is a swimwear, clothing and lifestyle brand recognized internationally for its on-trend designs, flattering feminine styles and inclusivity for all customers to feel confident and beautiful.
Francesca Aiello and her mother, Mimi Aiello, founded the brand in Malibu itself in 2012, according to the Frankies Bikinis website. The new store adds a fresh splash of style to the local shopping center while also reinforcing the sun-soaked lifestyle of Malibu.
Synergy with Malibu Culture
For many Pepperdine students, a bathing suit has become part of their outfit rituals as many said they enjoy spending time between class going to the beach or soaking up the sun. Growing up in Malibu, founder Francesca Aiello spent so much time wearing bikinis that she started designing her own, according to Forbes.
Frankies Bikinis aligns with the community culture as Aiello’s brand mirrors Malibu’s laid-back yet vibrant culture through its beachy essence, stylish fashion, and commitment to wellness.
A Celebration with the Community
To mark the store’s grand opening Aug. 17, they invited visitors to shop with a special offer. The first 50 customers received a complimentary bikini and popsicles with purchase, as promoted on their Instagram.
Junior Soleil Velasco said the event gave shoppers a taste of the brand’s signature style and community spirit while also creating a lively atmosphere for her and her friends to connect.
“It was a memorable experience because it was the first time meeting after the summer,” Velasco said. “We got matching bikinis, caught up and gave each other advice. It was so wholesome.”
The event showcased the store’s charm while also creating a welcoming space for the community to bond. Velasco said it was a successful way to kickoff what many agree is an already a special addition to the Malibu shopping scene.
Local Perspectives
Many Pepperdine students said they are longtime fans of the brand and eagerly embraced its arrival. Sophomore Melanie Syrios said she was thrilled to see the brand open its first flagship store just a short distance from campus.
“They did a really good job on choosing the location, because especially living in Malibu, I am always at the beach,” Syrios said. “I’m a fan of Frankies Bikinis— it’s a very aesthetic brand and it’s comfortable. I always have my Frankies.”
The store is quickly becoming a favorite among students, as it fits perfectly into their beach-centered lifestyle.
Mesquit said that shopping in Malibu can sometimes be difficult for younger people, as many stores cater to an older audience or feature high-end designers.
“Frankies adds value by targeting a younger demographic, especially Pepperdine students,” Mesquit said. “I totally see myself going back to shop there all the time.”
The store’s presence makes Malibu shopping more accessible and responsive to a younger audience— many stop by when shopping for something that captures the spirit of Malibu, students said.
Lasting Impact
The opening of Frankies Bikinis’ flagship store at Cross Creek Ranch marks a new chapter for the company along with Malibu’s shopping landscape.
“I’m too excited for this store to be here. It’s dangerous— every time I go in there’s something new that I want to wear to the beach or anywhere else in Malibu,” Syrios said.
As a brand deeply rooted in Malibu’s culture and designed to resonate with the local lifestyle, Frankies Bikinis introduces a refreshing touch of fashion and community spirit to the area.
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Contact Bohuen Tong via email: bohuen.tong@pepperdine.edu
