MIKOH

Photos by Peter King

As competitive child surfers and swimsuit models for Roxy, raised on SoCal’s sandy shores, Kalani and younger sis, Oleema, know a thing or two about beach living. So it’s no surprise that the athletic duo with an affinity for fashion grew up to be swimwear designers. In 2010, they launched MIKOH Swimwear, a mix of simple and sassy suits that would splash across the pages of the next three issues of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Edition. Now, frequently spotted on high-profile celebrities like Cameron Diaz and Kourtney Kardashian, the label dives into its third season with a wider array of cuts, colors and cover-ups, and a brand-new collection for kids.

NBM: When did your interest in clothing design emerge?
OM: Our mother (a seamstress) showed us how to use her sewing machine when I was 8 or 9. We started making our own outfits—of course, they would later rip!—but we were both creative and loved making things.

NBM: MIKOH means “female prophecy” in Japanese; is this a cultural significance?
KM: When we researched the name to see if anyone had it, we found out it’s meaning. Even though we’re of Chinese descent, we’ve always been really into Japanese culture, so the name was a really cool fit. Initially though, the name represents our names: “MI” is for our last name and “KOH” stands for Kalani, Oleema and our little sister, Hana.

NBM: What role does each of you play in the operation?
OM: I’m more creative and Kalani is more business-minded. It works well that we’re so good at different things—two creative minds could be a battle!

NBM: Where do most of your creative concepts come from?
OM: It’s very random—I try to carry a sketchpad wherever I go but usually end up jotting down my ideas and drawings on scraps of paper, wrappers, magazine pages and napkins!

NBM: All MIKOH pieces are all seamless and hardware free, making them more versatile and flattering to a woman’s body. What other details should women look for when choosing a swimsuit?
OM: Nothing should dig into your skin, which creates body bulges, and stay away from ill-fitted bottoms—contrary to popular belief, less fabric is way more flattering!
KM: Also look for colors that compliment your skin tone. And go with your gut; if you feel comfortable and confident, chances are you look just as great as you feel.

NBM: What inspired the 2012 swimwear styles?
OM: The free spirit of the 1960s and’70s—in addition to our usual earthy colors, you’ll see a lot of bold and bright solids and prints this season, [reminiscent] of that era.

NBM: Between traveling for work and as girlfriends of professional surfers (Kalani is the girlfriend of 11x World Surfing Champion Kelly Slater, and Oleema dates Taj Burrow), you both—much like your target demographic—are always on-the-go. What are some of your most treasured travel finds?
OM: I collect shells from all of the beautiful beaches I’ve visited. And jewelry.
KM: I love collecting fabrics—I have this great beach blanket that I found in Bali (where our suits are manufactured).

NBM: Where can we find your suits in Newport Beach?
OM: Westerly, Molly Brown’s, Diane’s and the Victoria’s Secret store in Fashion Island. We’re also on shopbop.com and revolveclothing.com.