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Winner of the 2024 Best of Awards ‘Best Swimwear’
[This story on Blondies is from our 2025 Summer print issue. You can see the electronic version here.]
Over the past decade, Blondies has transformed from a single-location slushy bar into a multifaceted brand celebrated for its distinctive fashion line, all meticulously handcrafted by local artisans in Puerto Vallarta.
This dedication to quality and community was recently recognized when Blondies received the “Best Swim Wear” award at the 2024 Annual Puerto Vallarta Gays: Best of Awards and was a finalist for “Best Fashion Store” and “Best Happy Hour.” The recognition solidifies its place not only as a hub for great drinks and nightlife but also as a fashion house that blends style, craftsmanship, and local pride.
Blondies’ foray into fashion began approximately four years after its inception. Co-owners Shawn McGuire and Dino Alberti envisioned creating a line that encapsulated the vibrant spirit of Puerto Vallarta while supporting the local economy. To achieve this, they established an in-house design studio above their second location, Los Otros Blondies, ensuring that every piece of clothing, including their renowned swimwear, was designed, printed, and sewn on-site by local talent.
Unlike many fashion brands that outsource production overseas, Blondies made a deliberate choice to keep everything local. This approach allowed them to maintain strict quality control and foster a collaborative environment where artisans could contribute their expertise. The result is a collection of swimwear and apparel that resonates with both locals and visitors, reflecting the colorful and dynamic essence of Puerto Vallarta. Each item, from tank tops and T-shirts to swim trunks and accessories, is infused with the brand’s signature pop-art aesthetic, making it a staple for those who appreciate bold, distinctive fashion.
The demand for Blondies’ fashion line has grown exponentially, pushing the brand to expand its production facilities.
“We’re almost getting pushed out of our office because our production keeps growing,” McGuire said as he gave Out & About PV Magazine a tour of their production facilities.
The need for more space and equipment is a testament to the popularity of their designs. McGuire described the meticulous process behind their clothing production: Designs are first printed on sublimation paper and then transferred onto fabric using a heat press at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring vibrant colors and intricate details. The attention to detail is evident in every piece, from swimwear to beach towels and even custom-printed thermoses.
“You’ll see here that even the most simple tank top or swimsuit can often use as many as four or five different machines to complete all the different stitches,” Alberti explained. “So they all work together and kind of pass them along.”
Unlike large-scale factories where workers are trained to perform only a single stitch repeatedly, Blondies trains each of its employees to operate multiple machines. This holistic approach not only increases efficiency but also empowers workers with a broader skill set, making for a more dynamic and engaged team.
Blondies’ commitment to ethical fashion and local employment was further reinforced when they acquired the design studio previously operated by Hotel Mercurio.
“When Hotel Mercurio closed… they had a little design studio where they made their swimsuits,” Alberti said. “So when they closed, we called over there asking what we could do to help. We ended up buying out his entire studio — all of the sewing machines — and even offered all of his employees a job. Many of those girls came with us.” This move not only expanded Blondies’ production capacity but also provided job security for skilled artisans in the community.
Blondies’ success in the fashion industry has also led to new creative ventures, including the introduction of unique collections featuring intricate embellishments.
“This year we have a collection of stoned items and they’re all hand-stoned with crystals,” McGuire shared.
The ability to experiment with different styles and techniques is a direct result of having a dedicated in-house production team, allowing Blondies to stay ahead of fashion trends while maintaining its distinct identity.
While Blondies’ swimwear has received the most attention, the brand’s full range of apparel continues to attract customers looking for high-quality, locally made pieces. The boutique features a variety of clothing, including stylish T-shirts, tank tops, hoodies, hats, and beach accessories, all designed with the same commitment to craftsmanship. Each item carries the essence of Puerto Vallarta, making them not just fashion statements but also souvenirs that capture the spirit of the city.
As Blondies celebrates its 10th season, McGuire and Alberti remain dedicated to innovation and community engagement. Plans are underway to introduce new collections and collaborate with local artists, further enriching Puerto Vallarta’s cultural landscape. The focus remains on sustainable manufacturing practices and delivering unique, high-quality products that resonate with both locals and visitors. “We spend six months during the summer filling these full of all of the designs we’ve been working on all year,” McGuire said. “And, as you can see, some of them empty out very quickly.”
Blondies’ evolution from a slushy bar to a celebrated fashion destination exemplifies the dynamic spirit of Puerto Vallarta. The establishment’s unwavering commitment to local production and community engagement has solidified its position as a cornerstone of the city’s cultural and social fabric.
With each passing year, the brand continues to push boundaries, offering stylish, high-quality apparel that reflects the vibrant energy of the LGBTQ+ community and Puerto Vallarta as a whole. The recognition as Best Swim Wear is just one milestone in what promises to be an exciting future for Blondies.
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