The Next Swim Muse Could This Be You?

Linda Chiou is the Founder and CEO of Ivy Swimwear, an internationally recognized swimwear brand she launched in 2016. Since then, she has led the brand's growth from an independent startup to a global label through innovative design, creative direction, and strategic expansion.

For Linda, the next Ivy Swimwear x Maxim winner represents more than beauty—they should embody confidence, authenticity, and the spirit of inspiring women around the world.

With over six years of experience in event production, she creates luxury fashion events, brand activations, and runway experiences that connect designers, brands, and audiences.

A graduate of Parsons School of Design at The New School, where she studied Fashion Design, Evita combines her design background with her passion for entrepreneurship. Through EVITA Swimwear, she designs elevated, fashion-forward collections, while New York Swim Week serves as a global platform dedicated to showcasing emerging swimwear and resortwear designers.

As a creative director, I’m always looking for models who bring something authentic and unique to their work. It’s not just about posing; it’s about using every moment in front of the camera to express who you are. I want to see personality shine through the images, that spark of creativity and desire that makes you unforgettable.

Stay true to your dream, set high goals and outline the actions that will lead you there. Remember that failing is a part of the learning process and that success is the result of consistency and hard work.

My biggest advice is to put yourself out there and share your goals openly with your community—don’t be afraid to ask for support and for people to vote for you.

I’ve decided to leave behind the fear of not measuring up, to fully embrace who I am, and to go after my dreams wholeheartedly. Modeling was always something I dreamed of but never thought possible. Now, I’m living that dream, and I hope others find the courage to pursue their own.

Model Photography is a form of expression, an art, it not only captures and freezes a moment in time but it has the potential to tell a compelling story. Use this competition to tell your story, make your images speak for themselves, have them say one thousand words from the very second someone lays eyes on them.

Be your authentic self, be unforgettable. Become the woman you strive to be and portray her using your skills as an elegant and powerful model. I’ll see you at the finish line, I wish every single one of you the best of luck.