About us
To leave a legacy is to put a stamp on the future — to make a contribution for the generations to come.
Legacy was created from a life lived between the ocean and the creative world of fashion and is propelled with a heart to leave lasting impact.
Founded by professional surfer and designer Leah Thompson Smith, Legacy is a swim and resort wear brand shaped by movement, quality, and an unwavering belief that what we wear should not only reflect, but provoke a deep confidence from within.
What began as a personal pursuit to combine two passions and design elevated, meaningful swimwear has grown into a brand rooted in intention, refinement, and lasting impact.
We create for women who desire to leave a lasting Legacy.
More than a brand, Legacy is a movement. At our core, we are committed to giving back, building community, and creating pieces that inspire confidence and comfort. Legacy gives 7% of all profit to build fresh water wells for children in India, through a non profit called Angel House. We aim to leave a meaningful mark in all that we do— one that lasts far beyond the tides of fashion.
from pro surfer to brand designer & ceo
more of leah's story
I grew up on a little barrier island called Wrightsville Beach in North Carolina — a salty, sun-kissed corner of the East Coast where surfing is a way of life. My dad had me on a board just after I learned to walk, and before long I was traveling the world, chasing waves, competing, and stepping into the world of modeling.
At home, my grandma Kathleen taught me how to sew, and that’s where another kind of creativity started to take hold. I practically lived in a bathing suit, so it made sense that I began cutting up old ones and stitching them into new styles — chasing the idea of something that felt like me.
I always had a deep love for the ocean and fashion, so somewhere down the line a swimwear brand was destined to be created.
My heart to leave a lasting impact, that my kids will one day carry on is where the name Legacy came into play. A name that marks the brand and sets the tone in all that we do. Leaving a lasting impact that reaches far beyond fashion and the moment we're in, but actually transcends this generation and stretches around the world.