FROM VISION TO CRAFT - Anna Papoulia Speaks to Voria.gr

Earlier this year, our founder and designer Anna Papoulia sat down with Voria.gr to share the story behind Sirene Egeenne, her design philosophy, and what it means to create sustainable fashion inspired by the Aegean spirit. Below is the full interview, republished with permission from Voria.gr. 

Read the original interview on Voria.gr

For our global audience, the interview is available in English below:

ANNA PAPOULIA IS TURNING REGENERATED FABRICS INTO DREAMY, MEDITERRANEAN- INSPIRED SWIMWEAR

The swimsuits and resort wear of the brand Sirene Egeenne by Anna Papoulia combine ecological awareness with timeless elegance

By Athanasia Bidou

The swimsuits she designs are made exclusively in Greece from regenerated and recyclable fabrics. Her main source of inspiration is the Aegean Sea, with its light, colors, and the sense of freedom it offers. After all, the name she chose for her brand, Sirene Egeenne, is deeply connected to the Aegean Sea. On one hand, “Egeenne” refers to the sea that surrounds and inspires us. On the other, the Sirens of Greek mythology, enchanting and enigmatic creatures, symbolize the allure and mystery she wants her creations to exude.

"The idea for Sirene Egeenne was born out of the need to combine ecological consciousness with timeless elegance. I wanted to create clothing that respects both the environment and the aesthetics of the modern woman," says Anna Papoulia, founder of the Thessaloniki-based swimwear and resort wear brand Sirene Egeenne, speaking to Vwoman.

The Rise of the Siren

It’s no coincidence that Sirene Egeenne “emerged” in the Greek resort wear scene in 2020, during the pandemic, a time that made us see more clearly the importance of sustainability.

“I was always environmentally conscious, but during the pandemic, I dedicated a lot of time to researching regenerated fibers and recyclable fabrics. I discovered that carbon emissions are significantly reduced, and through sustainable fashion, we can truly protect the environment,” notes Anna Papoulia, who was born and raised in Thessaloniki.

However, her deep connection to the sea—developed through spending her summers in Chalkidiki—greatly influenced her creative journey.

The pandemic became the catalyst for a long-held dream to become reality. Although her mother was an academic, she loved sewing. Anna Papoulia recalls watching her transform fabrics into garments, and, as she notes, perhaps that’s where her own love for creation and attention to detail first began.

Despite studying German Philology in Thessaloniki, the path Anna Papoulia truly wanted to follow lay far from Goethe’s language. Her interest in fashion first emerged while working in the hotel industry in Crete, where she realized the potential of resort wear. However, the venture seemed risky to her, especially due to the intense competition in the field, and for many years, she had set the idea aside. For about 15 years, she was fully dedicated to entrepreneurship, being involved in a well-known and highly successful children’s entertainment center in Thessaloniki. “At some point, that chapter closed for me because I felt the need to do something more creative. For two years I kept thinking about taking the leap but couldn’t make the decision. Then the pandemic came, and somehow everything led me to Sirene Egeenne,” says Anna Papoulia.

Responsible Swimwear and Subtle Luxury

Anna wants every woman -regardless of age- to feel beautiful and confident in a swimsuit she will love and wear for years.

“For me, ‘responsible swimwear’ means quality, timelessness, and respect for the environment. Sirene Egeenne swimsuits are made exclusively in Greece with regenerated and recyclable fabrics, supporting local craftsmanship and maintaining high standards of ethical production,” she emphasizes.

She emphasizes that commitment to ethical fashion is a constant challenge. “In today’s industry, speed and mass production often outweigh craftsmanship and responsible creation. In an environment where profit dictates priorities, careful construction and an ethical approach seem like luxuries. Balancing innovation with market demands is no easy task, but conscious choices are the only path that holds true value for the future of fashion,” she explains.

According to Anna Papoulia, “the woman who chooses our brand values timeless elegance, impeccable fit, and meticulous tailoring. She prefers understated luxury over fleeting trends and seeks pieces that blend quality with authenticity. Her aesthetic is a mix of strength and effortless femininity.”

Next Steps

For Summer 2025, Sirene Egeenne is expanding its creative identity by presenting, for the first time, a capsule menswear collection under the name THE-SEAS.

THE-SEAS is an ode to the sea, mythology, and masculine elegance. Inspired by Theseus (Theseas) and the vastness of the seas (The Seas), the brand redefines men’s resort wear through timeless design and sustainable philosophy.

“The collection features swimwear made from certified recycled polyester and vacation clothing crafted from natural, sustainable materials, combining luxury with environmental responsibility. The swimsuits become postcards, imprinted with authentic photographs of Greek landscapes. Each piece is a keepsake of small, meaningful moments, nature, and contemporary aesthetics,” highlights Anna Papoulia.

Crafted in Greece for men who seek simplicity, sustainability, and purpose in every choice.

Sirene Egeenne products are available through the brand’s e-shop as well as in select resort hotel boutiques. They can also be found at the brand’s atelier at 2 Ariadnis Street, near the Voulgari metro station in Thessaloniki. The brand’s goal is to expand its presence in markets that value sustainability and high aesthetics.