Molokai Designer Featured at Hawaii Swim Show

photos courtesy of Lesley Escobar

In her first year showcasing at the Hawaii Swim Show, Lesley Escobar’s Hoku ili Kinis from Molokai made a splash.

“[Escobar’s] prints were very unique,” said Kali’a Wasson, cofounder of Hawaii Swim Week. “She is very, very passionate about her representation of Hawaii and Molokai.”

Escobar showcased 15 different outfits at the runway event, which ran Aug. 30 through Sept. 1. Her collection drew inspiration from the colors, styles and images of May Day.

“This collection captures the essence of Hawaii’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes” explains a description of Escobar’s collection, “embodying the spirit of May Day…where fashion meets tradition.”

Escobar handmakes all her bikinis and focuses on maintaining a unique authenticity for her brand.

What started as a “side-hustle” after being laid off during the COVID pandemic, quickly grew into a full-time job, she explained, with her swimsuits now being sold internationally.

“My mission is to provide sustainable, ethically produced bikinis that embody the spirit of slow fashion,” said Escobar. At Hoku ili Kinis, she focuses on “the connection between individuals and the natural world, inspiring a deep appreciation for both the environment and cultural heritage.”

Her vision, she explained, was to make high quality swimwear locally accessible and affordable.

To be one of the 16 designers featured at this year’s swim show was “so crazy,” said Escobar. The event required a week-long trip to Oahu, with meet-and-greets, rehearsals, vendor opportunities and finally the runway show at the Wai Kai.

Accompanying her designs, Escobar used Molokai singer Queen Maile to introduce and conclude the showcase. Being from Molokai had a big impact on the kinds of styles that Escobar chose to create. She explained that inspiration for the theme came after sitting down and talking story with experienced Molokai artists like Scarlett and Loretta Ritte and Kalae Tangonan after this year’s May Day.

“I was inspired then and there,” said Escobar.

It’s this authentic connection to her work that Escobar believes shows her pieces in a different light.

“You can tell [Escobar’s] really grounded,” said Wasson.

Hoku ili Kinis was picked from over 100 designers for this year’s show. Now in its third year, the Hawaii Swim Show is modeled after Miami Swim Week, with the hope of offering more exposure and visibility to local brands, explained Wasson.

Now, Escobar says she would like to plan an event on Molokai for other designers and vendors on-island.

“It would be great to do a give back, and run it back for everyone over here,” said Escobar. “We’re all from Molokai, we all know each other, but we don’t always talk.”

For other Molokai swimsuit and loungewear designers interested in participating in next year’s Hawaii Swim Show, Wasson offered the advice of “staying true to who you are and who your brand is expressing.”

Molokai residents can check out Hoku ili Kinis at hokuilikinis.com or in Kaunakakai at the N8V Built store at 64 Ala Malama Ave.