At just eighteen, Holden Bierman has already built a business that blends creativity, sustainability, and innovation. As the founder and CEO of Coastal Cool, a brand dedicated to transforming plastic waste into fashionable swimwear, he’s proving that age is no barrier to impact.
Building a brand from scratch
Bierman’s journey began when he was only twelve. During the long months of the pandemic, he found himself searching for something meaningful to do. That curiosity turned into entrepreneurship — and by his thirteenth birthday, he had officially launched Coastal Cool with a small $500 loan from his parents. Through online tutorials and endless trial and error, he taught himself everything: from website design to product shipping.
Fashion with a mission
Today, Coastal Cool is a thriving eco-friendly swimwear brand that uses recycled materials to create comfortable, stylish pieces. Every swimsuit is made from plastic rescued from oceans and coastlines. The company partners with environmental organizations to collect and repurpose discarded plastics while supporting fair-pay jobs in developing communities.
Creating change through design
Holden believes that business should have purpose. Each Coastal Cool product funds the removal of ocean waste, turning discarded materials into something beautiful and functional. “Entrepreneurship isn’t just about selling,” he says. “It’s about building a community that believes in what you stand for.”
Balancing school and success
Running a company while still in high school wasn’t easy. Bierman had to sacrifice dances, games, and free weekends — but he says the trade-off was worth it. His parents’ influence shaped his character: his father’s background in sales sparked his ambition, while his mother, a creative writer, inspired his artistic side.
Inspiring the next generation
Now, as he prepares for college, Bierman hopes to expand Coastal Cool into retail stores while continuing to grow its environmental mission. His advice to other young dreamers is simple: follow your passion, take the leap, and trust yourself. “You have time to make mistakes — so start early, stay curious, and see how far you can go.”
