Shivangi Sinha
Beach vacations often call for sunshine, relaxation, and stylish swimwear that captures the carefree spirit of summer. As our love for coastal escapes remains timeless, the fashion around swimwear continues to evolve, embracing new trends and reimagining old ones. Episode 4 of Season 16 of ABC’s ‘Shark Tank’ highlighted this shift when Moonies presented their innovative take on men’s swimwear. Offering a bold alternative to traditional trunks, Moonies subverts familiar tropes by blending comfort, modern aesthetics, and playful design, challenging outdated notions of what men’s beachwear should look like.
Moonies: Who Are They and What Do They Do?
Karisa Holyoak earned her bachelor’s degree in arts with a major in advertising from Brigham Young University in 2003, setting the stage for a promising career in the creative field. She began her professional journey at the renowned advertising agency Young & Rubicam while living in New York City. It was during this time that she met McKay Winkel, who came from a finance background, and their love story took root. In 2007, Karisa took on the role of Creative Director at Pretty Handsome Paper, prompting a move to Denver, Colorado, where the couple went on to build a life together and welcome four children. Passionate about travel, Karisa and McKay always shared a love for new experiences and often took family vacations, embracing adventure and time together outside the everyday.
Back in the early 2000s, during a weekend getaway with friends at Lake Powell, Utah, Karisa and McKay found themselves in the middle of a playful “Stud of the Lake” swimsuit contest. Eager to stand out, McKay searched for the most outrageous swimwear but came up empty-handed, so he got creative. With a little help from Karisa, he modified a pair of Speedos by adding a cheeky cutout and a clear plastic cover over the back. The bold move earned him the top title and planted the seed for what would eventually become Moonies. Over the years, friends kept requesting their own version of the infamous trunks. After nearly two decades of jokes and prototypes, the couple finally patented the design and launched Moonies officially in 2022.
McKay had always toyed with the idea of pitching Moonies on ‘Shark Tank,’ feeling deep down that the quirky concept had real potential. One day, acting on impulse, he sent in an application, and to his surprise, it was accepted. His appearance on the show propelled Moonies into the spotlight, capturing attention for their humor, originality, and viral appeal. Beyond their playful design, Moonies are also crafted with sustainability in mind. Each swimsuit is made from 86% recycled polyester, with plans underway to transition to a fully recycled material in the near future. Even their packaging reflects this commitment to the planet, as the shipping bags are created entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic. The brand’s blend of bold fun and environmental responsibility has struck a chord with customers, making Moonies not just memorable but meaningful.
Moonies: Where Are They Today?
Since their unforgettable debut on the season, Moonies has seen a remarkable uptick in business, with sales skyrocketing and attention pouring in from all corners of the internet. The unique concept and cheeky humor clearly struck a chord with audiences and turned first-time buyers into loyal fans. Available exclusively through their official website, Moonies swimwear has become a go-to for people looking to make a splash at beach parties, pool gatherings, and bachelor weekends.
Moonies currently offers two main styles: the “Open Window” and the “Closed Window.” The Open Window version features a cheeky cutout in the back. It’s available in five vibrant designs, each retailing at $45. The Closed Window style provides a similar silhouette but with a soft plastic cover over the back cutout, making it ideal for those who want to tone down the exposure without compromising on fun. This version comes in four distinctive colorways and also sells for $45. Both options are designed with comfort and stretch in mind, ensuring wearability beyond the novelty factor.
Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with buyers praising not just the bold concept but also the surprising quality and attention to detail. Many have called Moonies “the life of the party,” while others have complimented the comfort and fit. In fact, in March, the brand completely sold out of their small-sized Turquoise Open Window swimsuit and responded by offering a 20% discount with a limited-time coupon code. But Moonies isn’t just about laughs and looks; it’s a company with heart. They donate 5% of their profits to environmental and LGBTQ+ organizations, staying true to their commitment to fun with purpose. With smart branding, a loyal community, and a clear mission, its prospects look better than ever.
Read More: Stringys Shark Tank Update: Redefining Invisibility in Everyday Underwear
