Carve Designs Inc., the specialist in women’s swimwear, surf and beach-inspired apparel, has received a “significant growth capital investment” from Warren B. Kanders, through an affiliate of Kanders & Co. Inc.
Kanders & Co. is a private investment firm with more than 30 years of experience investing in public and private companies across a variety of sectors.
Headquartered in Mill Valley, CA and founded in 2003, Carve Designs was established on the principle of “carving a path whether in surf or just in life.” Initially focused on the development of rash guards and board shorts, Carve Designs is now a complete lifestyle brand offering a comprehensive line of apparel including surf, swim, active and lifestyle designs. Products are sold at more than 300 specialty retailers across the U.S. and Canada, as well as through an emerging e-commerce platform.
Carve Designs Founders Jennifer Hinton and Thayer Sylvester.
“I am delighted to partner with such a dynamic and creative leadership team and the entire Carve Designs family,” said Kanders. “Thayer and Jen have built an unbelievably unique company with a brand ethos that resonates deeply with its customers. We look forward to working closely with them as we provide strategic insight and capital to accelerate growth and brand awareness.”
Kanders, the president and owner of Kanders & Co., will become chairman of Carve Designs, while the company’s co-founders, Thayer Sylvester and Jennifer Hinton, will continue in their current roles as chief executive and creative director, respectively. Kanders currently serves as executive chairman of Black Diamond Inc., chairman of Mountain Khakis and chairman and CEO of Safariland LLC.
“Jen and I are excited to embark on the next chapter of Carve Designs’ story with Kanders & Company,” said Sylvester. “Our new partners are uniquely qualified to provide the industry expertise and financial resources required for a rapidly growing apparel brand to thrive. Carve Designs is well-positioned to become a nationally recognized, iconic outdoor lifestyle brand. This tremendous partnership will enable us to realize that vision.”
