Merrilee’s Swimwear is a fashion institution

Merrilee Madrigal looks at the coats her daughter Felicia designed at Merrilee's Swimwear in Laguna Beach.

Merrilee Madrigal looks at the coats her daughter Felicia designed at Merrilee’s Swimwear in Laguna Beach.  (Don Leach / Daily Pilot)

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Felicia Madrigal, Merrilee Madrigal’s daughter, stands in front of a wall of swimwear and tops she designed.  (Don Leach / Daily Pilot)

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Merrilee, left, and Felicia Madrigal look at new fabric swatch samples at Merrilee’s Swimwear in Laguna Beach.

  (Don Leach / Daily Pilot)

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Photos of a Merrilee’s one-piece suit is shown from the late ‘80s.  (Don Leach / Daily Pilot)

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Carved elephants are part of the many gifts and products that go along with the swimwear at Merrillee’s in Laguna Beach.  (Don Leach / Daily Pilot)

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One piece swimwear and colorful tops at Merrilee’s Swimwear in Laguna Beach.  (Don Leach / Daily Pilot)

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Merrilee Madrigal has owned and operated Merrilee’s Swimwear in Laguna Beach since 1986 and has survived the passing trends and styles. She now considers the business a family affair.  (Don Leach / Daily Pilot)