(Sew with a needle + “HI” for Hawaiʻi)
Hey, I’m K. Kanani Mokiao-Lee—founder, designer, and the heart behind SEWHI KINIS. This brand was born from a dream my husband and I shared, blending our creative visions and love for Hawai‘i. Based out of beautiful Windward Oʻahu, I started SEWHI in 2019 with one goal in mind: to create swimwear that’s stylish, functional, and fits real bodies.
A little about me—I’m a graduate of Williston State College and the University of Hawaiʻi, I've obtain a degree in nursing, physiology, business and Hawaiian studies, but more importantly, I’m a mom, grandma, wife, and lifelong designer. Every piece I make is personal to me. I pour myself into the process from start to finish—designing, sewing, and showcasing my work on the runway multiple times a year. SEWHI is more than a brand to me—it’s a way to help people feel confident and seen.
Our mission is simple: create swimwear that helps you feel good in your own skin. We focus on inclusivity, comfort, and quality—offering looks that are as elegant as they are wearable, and priced with care.
What makes SEWHI special? All our pieces are custom and reversible, giving you two looks in one. They’re made to fit a range of body types and styles, and everything is crafted with attention to detail and love. It’s not just a bikini—it’s a reflection of you.
We also care deeply about the planet. That’s why we use recycled fabrics and support ocean cleanup efforts with a portion of our profits. Hawaiʻi has given us so much, and we’re committed to giving back—protecting our waters and marine life for the next generation.
Looking forward, I’m excited to keep growing SEWHI—reaching more people, pushing the limits of design, and always keeping inclusivity and sustainability at the core of what we do. At the end of the day, SEWHI is about helping you feel confident, comfortable, and fully yourself—wherever the ocean takes you.
