On The Road: Genevieve Andre de la Porte

Meet Genevieve - the founder (and creative mind) behind the sustainable swim and resort wear brand, Zonarch.

Feb 06, 2024

Let’s dive in…

Hi Genevieve! Tell us a bit about you.

Hi I’m Genevieve, a designer and creative from Antwerp, Belgium currently based out of Newport Beach, CA. Three years ago I launched Zonarch, a swim and resortwear brand focused on sustainably designed pieces for carefree moments under the sun. When I’m not working I like to spend my time surfing, practicing yoga, baking or DJing.

Where do you currently live? Any favorite local recommendations in your area?

I'm in Newport Beach. In general, my version of a perfect day is spent in nature, with good people and even better food. Locally, I’d recommend starting with a sunrise meditation and walk at Crystal Cove State Beach. Head to the Irvine farmers market (Saturday mornings) to get goodies for the weekend, don’t miss the pupusas. Drop your haul off in the fridge and head out to grab a coffee at one of the many spots we have around town: Stereoscope, Daydream, Milligram, Rye, Hearst, Neat.

For beaches, I like any of the North Laguna spots or the very southern tip of Crystal Cove where you’ll find relaxed surfers and family groups. It’s never crowded. If you get hungry stop by Mercado for a snack or salad bowl to go. La Sirena is the spot for a fresh plate of Mexican food, but make sure you go to the South Laguna one. Get mango habanero margaritas, Baja fish tacos, chips and guacamole - instant joy. If you have any daylight left and want to grab a drink with friends, I like Lido Bottle Works. Great wine selection, food and views over the water.

Book yourself a tour of the Hortense Miller Gardens for another day.

Tell us about Zonarch! I absolutely love the brand.

Zonarch started because of my love for the category of swimwear. I’ve always been that person "getting back from somewhere", so travel and how to dress for it are always on my mind. Although I’m not the type of person who buys a new wardrobe for a trip, I enjoy the creativity of using what’s in my closet and transforming it into a capsule collection (preferably to fit in a carry-on).

After working in the industry I learned that swimwear has always been disproportionately higher priced than other fashion categories in relation to its cost. The quality: price ratio was terrible, and I wanted to provide a solution by offering an honest yet elevated approach. One where integrity is instilled in the supply chain, transparency is the baseline and above all, where one can find beautiful high quality goods for a fair price.

In December, we launched our new collection which I’ve been working long and hard on. We launched in small intentional drops every few weeks, which is new for the brand. Resortwear is expanding and working with artisans will play a big role in this. Lastly, we are also expanding into retail stores so you will be able to find Zonarch on your favorite online platforms or in-stores soon.

Current Inspirations:

Recently I've been a George Harrison kick. His music has a special place in my heart and he was always the coolest Beatle in my eyes. Now we also share a deep love for India.

Your favorite trip this year:

A solo trip to India was something that had been on my mind for many moons. I finally did it in October and know this trip was only the first of many. India can be overwhelming, so planning to spend more time in fewer places is the way to go. This month I went to Dehradun, Rishikesh, Jaipur and Mumbai — all incredible places in their unique way. It’s difficult to put into words what happened on this trip, I know many people share the same sentiment when traveling to India. But it’s true. Indian philosophy is a gift to the world and to experience a snippet of their teachings first-hand has made a big impact on how I see and experience life.

The main highlight was spending a week at Vana, a wellness retreat in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is easily one of the most beautiful and serene places on earth. Upon arrival, a customized treatment plan is created to suit your goals and needs. Mine included four different types of yoga, meditation, breath work, Tibetan therapy, Ayurvedic treatments, acupuncture, sound healing, a trek in the mountains, two cleanses, no phones and lots of rest. Some days were very challenging both physically and mentally, but the experience was much needed and gave me a sense of absolute bliss and rejuvenation.

This past June we got to enjoy my cousin’s wedding in the South of France, where I grew up spending every summer with family. Going back was a celebration of togetherness, long lunches under the sun, and moments of bliss in the waters of the Mediterranean, where we spotted Brigitte Bardot peacefully swimming in front of her home. A highlight of the trip was an afternoon tour of Eileen Gray’s Villa E-1027. And the famous Saturday market in Apt, Provence.

What are the making of a perfect trip to you?

Plan as minimally as you’re comfortable with. It’s more of an attitude than a formula. Being curious, kind and open is the most rewarding attitude in life and it’s no different for travel. Let go of expectations and surrender to what is meant for you.