Kalena Kai Swim, a sustainable swimwear brand inspired by my Hawaiian roots and made in New York City through Atelier Amelia. Kalena Kai Swim’s first capsule, the Siren Collection, will preview at The William Vale on September 10, 2024 and is now available for pre-order at www.kalenakai.com. The bespoke design codes include swimwear styles in two colorways. Prices range from $69.99 to $175 (USD).
Kalena Kai translates to “pure ocean” in Hawaiian and combines my name with my brother’s. I was inspired to design biodegradable swimwear that unites ocean and land while accentuating the sensuality of curves. Born and raised in Wahiawa, Oahu, Hawaii and on “The Big Island” (the island of Hawaii), I moved to New York City to study media and culture at NYU and swimwear and intimate apparel product development at FIT.
A few details about the collection:
Manufactured by CFDA Grant Fund Recipient, Atelier Amelier:
All swimwear is made in New York through Atelier Amelia, led by Zhu Ru Chen (also from Hawaii), who has supported Kalena Kai Swim with sourcing, fittings, and production guidance. The CFDA recommends Atelier Amelia as one of the top places for emerging USA-based designers to manufacture swimwear.
Biodegradable Fabric:
Kalena Kai Swim features highly chlorine-resistant elastane yarn with Amni Soul Eco technology, a biodegradable polyamide that decomposes quickly in landfills. The fabric is cool, UV-protective, and offers balanced elasticity and drape for smooth, comfortable wear, becoming fully biodegradable within five years when properly disposed of.
Three Distinct Styles (photos attached):
One to Two Piece: signature piece that can be transformed into multiple looks.
Kolohe Kini: side strap two piece paired with a center criss cross bikini top.
Puamahina Kini: strappy two piece bikini with a collar detail.
Colorways Inspired by My Hawaiian Childhood:
The first colorway is Noir, reflective of the black lava rock that serves as a consistent reminder of how powerful mother nature can be and pays homage to my favorite hawaiian goddess; madame pele. Big island remains the only Hawaiian island with an active volcano.
The second colorway is Peridot Sage, emulating Oahu’s Papakōlea Green Sand Beach on the island of Hawaiʻi. It’s one of the world’s four green sand beaches and where I spent half of my childhood.
