Our Story

StraitSwim is a swimwear line that aims to share Torres Strait Islander culture through print. Each of our designs tells a story, and invites you to go on a journey to the most Northern part of Australia. We draw inspiration from lived experiences and ties to traditional culture, while aspiring to connect people through nature.


Founder Alyssa Mills has been living and experiencing Torres Strait Islander culture for more than a decade through and with her husband, Patrick Mills. From her first ferry ride from Horn Island to Thursday Island, to learning traditional island dances and recipes, Alyssa has been inspired by this way of life. Although the scenery is beautiful, it’s the people who embody the warm and passionate Torres Strait Islander culture that make this place like no other. 
 
StraitSwim aims to share these good vibes and bring you along this journey with us.

Crayfish

Inspired by the Crayfish that are commonly found in the tropical waters of the Torres Strait, our Crayfish print depicts colors and formations of it’s tail curled back, hard shell and sharp pointers. The hard body shell of the Crayfish is beautifully colored in splashes of orange, blue and turquoise. Hand spears are used by divers to catch Crayfish, a tradition which has been in place for thousands of years in the Torres Strait.

Coral Trout

In tribute to the Coral Trout, our print portrays the different sized spots that appear on the skin of the fish. This is one of the many reef fish traditionally belonging to the waters of the Torres Strait along the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. They’re easily identified by their vibrant pink colour and electric blue spots. Hook and line or hand spears are used to catch Coral Trout which are a main food source in the Torres Strait because of their delicious taste.

Waru (wah-ru)

Waru is the name given to the Turtle in Kala Lagaw Ya, one of the traditional languages of the Torres Strait. Our Waru print portrays the shell of a Waru and it’s pattern. The abstract colors tie in the ocean blue and turquoise with green, representing the color of their fat and it’s main source of food, sea-grass. The Waru is found in the waters of the Torres Strait and for some kinship groups, is a totem.

Dugong (do-gong)

This abstract print has been inspired by water running down the smooth grey skin of the Dugong. It’s slow pace is represented by the muted tones and blurred movement. The Torres Strait Islands are home to the largest Dugong habitat in the world. These animals are especially important to the culture, traditions, and livelihood of the Torres Strait Islander people.