At SurfGirl we enjoy recognizing surf-wear brands that are built on good intention and deliver what they say on the tin. AFATO, the label founded by German fashion designer Diandra Stelljes, fits our brief.
A background in fashion and a deep connection to the ocean, Diandra brings tailored, purpose-driven design to the lineup. Her mission: to create sustainable surfwear that actually fits, performs flawlessly in the water – and reflects a timeless, confident aesthetic.
“I see surf-wear as a design challenge: How do we create something that moves like a second skin, stays on in bigger surf and that women feel confident in?”
Photos: Jule Weber
Made in Bali, Built to Last
AFATO pieces are handmade in Bali, in close collaboration with local tailors in a small and ethical production. Each style is made with ECONYL® regenerated polyamide yarn.With clean lines, strong seams and powerful hold, AFATO is designed for real surf life: paddling, duck diving, wipeouts – and everything in between. It’s surfwear designed like sportswear, refined like fashion, and tested like gear.
Living the Brand
Diandra’s partner recently joined the brand and together, they have swapped Hamburg for Bali to follow their passion and focus fully on the brand. They are pursuing the surfer life they’ve always dreamed of. Being closer to the ocean and the people who craft each piece, they can develop new designs directly with their team and stay constantly inspired by the waves and the surf community around them.
We caught up with Diandra to learn more…
What makes AFATO different from other surf-wear brands?
There are plenty of cute bikinis out there, but AFATO puts surfing first. Every piece is designed with a strong elastic tape in the waistband for extra hold where it’s needed most – so you can move freely and focus on the wave, not your surf-wear.
At the same time, AFATO’s fits, colours and cuts are timeless, minimal and refined – designed to feel like second skin in the surf and stay beautiful long after trends have passed.
Why did you start AFATO?
Because I couldn’t find surf-wear that supported me properly. I wanted to create something that helps women feel confident and free in and out of the surf. Because that is what AFATO means: As Free As The Ocean.
“There’s so much inspiration all around – the colours, the ocean, the energy of the place and the people.”
What inspires your designs?
The ocean, obviously – but also the places I travel to, the people I meet, and the feeling of being part of a surf culture and community. That’s why I chose to move to Bali – to be closer to my initial inspiration.
What makes you proud of AFATO?
I’m proud of how far it’s come. AFATO started as a side project next to my full-time job in a big fashion company – until I realised that all my thoughts, energy and passion were going into AFATO. I love design, but not the fast fashion world. So me and my partner made a choice: to leave everything behind, move to Bali, and give our dream the space it truly deserves.
What are you currently working on? What’s up next at AFATO?
We just launched a new color – Slate Blue – and we’re so excited about how it turned out. It’s deep, timeless, and looks amazing in and out of the water.
Now that we’ve just moved to Bali, I feel creatively recharged. There’s so much inspiration all around – the colors, the ocean, the energy. I’m already playing with ideas for new pieces – maybe a sleeveless one-piece in one of our signature colors, with a front zipper for easy entry. Nothing’s final yet, but the ideas are flowing.
Explore the Collection
The Back-Zip Bikini Top – Secure, Stylish, Surf-Ready
Whether you’re paddling out or popping up, the Back-Zip Bikini Top keeps everything in place – and looks amazing doing it. Featuring a high-quality YKK zipper at the back, removable cups, and double-layered construction, it combines clean aesthetics with serious performance. Finished with a subtle front logo and crafted with UV-protective fabric, it’s a piece that’s made to surf.
The Cropped Rash Guard – Style Meets Sun Safety
Your go-to for long days in the surf. The Cropped Rash Guard offers a snug fit, long sleeves, a round neckline and UV protection – perfect for staying shielded during peak sun hours. Designed with strategic layering (double in the body, single in the sleeves), it balances support and flexibility exactly where you need it. The cropped cut keeps the look clean and confident, while a strong elastic waistband ensures it stays exactly where it should – all session long.
The High Waist Bottom – Confidence in Every Set
A surf essential for women who want both support and freedom. With a high waist fit, a firm waistband, and double-layered support, this piece moves with you – not against you. Single-layered at the legs for unrestricted movement, it’s built to feel like second skin, no matter how wild the wave.
