S pooky szn and PSLs might be right around the corner, but in my closet it’s still 100% summer. Those floaty fabrics and bright, happy hues just hit different—they practically turn getting dressed into a mini serotonin boost.

Which is why I couldn’t help but smile when I first laid eyes on Kailua label LexBreezy Hawai‘i’s new By the Shore collection.

Left: Hoku Set, right: Kimono Cover-Up and Taylor Bikini Top / Photos: Courtesy of J Tang Productions, Brooke Clayton

Designer Alexis Akiona drew inspiration from the idea of a chic vacation wardrobe built around alohawear, pairing casual resort silhouettes with two gorgeous prints—a seashell pattern, reflective of the beauty of Hawai‘i’s beaches, and a vibrant botanical print, which the Hilo-native originally created while in the fashion design program at Honolulu Community College. “We hardly bring back any of our prints, but that was a special one for me because it was part of my senior line when I graduated in 2019,” she explains.

The collection also boasts a nice range of swimwear, a category the brand launched in 2021, spurred by an invitation to show in the first Hawai‘i Swim Week this year.

Akiona views the addition as a natural extension of LexBreezy Hawai‘i’s mission, to inspire all generations to be proud to wear alohawear. “We live in the aloha state, we should all be wearing alohawear. I feel the same way about swimwear. Hawai‘i should be the capital of swimwear.”

Left: Lola Tankini, right: Haunani Dress / Photos: Courtesy of Brooke Clayton, J Tang Productions

I’m particular smitten with the swim styles that can double as regular clothing. The low-back ‘Iwa Swimsuit in emerald green can easily be worn as a bodysuit, while the long-sleeve ‘Ilikea swim top with its cut-out under the bust would look killer with high-waist jeans.

And Akiona had her mom, Simply Sisters designer-owner Regina “Lola” Miller, in mind when designing the swingy Lola Tankini set. “It’s great for moms. It’s long in the front and long in the back. It has a lot of coverage.”

Of the clothing, the pleated, high-neck Haunani Dress and dramatic floor-length Kimono Cover-Up are stunners. I love the throw-on-and-go nature of the Waimea Wrap Dress. And the two-piece satin Hoku Set with one-shoulder crop top and high-waist skirt is a knock-out.

Left: Honey Girl Blouse and Pohai Tie Palazzo Pant, right: Vacay Long Jumpsuit /Photos: Courtesy of J Tang Productions

LexBreezy Hawai‘i’s Kailua shop recently turned a year old, and for a brand that started out small, selling at the Merrie Monarch Festival and craft fairs, that’s something to be celebrated. “I’ve worked so hard to get to this point,” says Akiona. “It’s been a dream come true.”

LexBreezy Hawai‘i, 16 Kainehe St., Kailua, (808) 379-2974, lexbreezyhawaii.com, @lexbreezyhawaii

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