The Smithers Story

Smithers started with a simple idea: swimwear that exudes style and substance without shouting for attention. It wasn’t just about filling a gap in the market—it was about creating something refined, something with quiet confidence.

The idea first took shape when I moved to Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Living between the ocean and the harbour pools, I spent my days in and out of the water, yet I struggled to find swimwear that felt right. Everything was either too bland or too loud—nothing truly embodied the balance of understated elegance and presence. That’s where the vision for Smithers began.

But Smithers is more than just swimwear. It’s built on the values of the modern-day gentleman—integrity, modesty, empathy, respect, gratitude, and loyalty. These qualities shaped our first collection, Foundations—a name that reflects both the strength of our ethos and the groundwork we’ve laid for what’s to come.

My journey to launching Smithers wasn’t a straight line. I started in a copper mine in the outback, worked in banking and finance, and spent years in digital marketing, helping build brands for others. I wanted something of my own—something that blended creativity, business, and craftsmanship. Fashion was in my DNA—my mother was a designer, my sister swam for Australia at the Paralympics—yet I never saw myself as a ‘swimwear designer.’ To ensure Smithers was built to last, I harnessed my family members and partnered with other experts in the field to equip myself with the skills and resources necessary to create a leading label in the men’s swimwear market.

The inspiration for Smithers also comes from my upbringing—a balance between two worlds. My mother’s side came from wealth and refinement, where generosity and quiet confidence defined status, not flashiness. My father grew up in council housing, where humility and hard work were the backbone of success. This blend shaped my perspective: that style isn’t about excess, it’s about presence. That true luxury isn’t about showing off, but about knowing who you are.

That’s the energy Smithers carries. Raise your level is more than a tagline—it’s a mindset. It’s about striving for more, carrying yourself with intention, and choosing quality over compromise. Our pieces are made in Sydney, using the finest materials and working with expert local makers. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about craftsmanship, heritage, and creating something that lasts.

The future for Smithers is expansive. Swimwear is just the beginning. We see Smithers evolving into a full lifestyle brand—expanding into menswear that embodies the same values, extending beyond the summer months and into year-round style. We’re here to challenge the norm, refine the standard, and create a wardrobe for men who live with purpose.

Smithers is about presence, precision, and quiet confidence. And if you’re here, you already know the difference.