Suit Yourself

Your go-to black bikini? Getting a little see-through. That sequined red baby with the blinged-out details? Pool (and possibly mainland) appropriate only. Then there’s always your rash guard and board shorts…

Ready to quit your beachin’?

Bikinis from Hawai‘i designers are gracing the bods of Sports Illustrated swimsuit  models to celebrities in tabloid snapshots, so there’s something out there that suits you.

Indah Clothing
Ever since Kate Hudson was snapped poolside wearing Indah’s Heart and Soul bikini, the style from Kaua‘i native Libby DeSantis’ line has been the suit of summer. It's an ultra-feminine bandeau top and Brazilian-cut bottom made from smocked and gathered silk. Available in red or champagne from the online store Nika Butik.

Maui Girl
The Pa‘ia boutique is known for basic, colorful mix-and-match separates, but it was designer Debbie Kowalski Wilson's special edition (and special order only) mesh and metallic suits that scored several spreads in last winter's SI issue. The exception: the peace-sign belted suit is carried in the store. Online at www.maui-girl.com. 

Letarte
Former pro windsurfer Lisa Cabrinha's girly-yet-athletic style makes these Maui-designed suits sexy and functional. Hand embroidery, premium fabrics and decorative details mean you don't need a body like Heidi Klum to wear them. View styles and stores online at www.letarteswimwear.com 

Hula-la
The Kailua-designed line has styles from pink-and-pretty gingham to tattoo-inspired prints. 

San Natura
These Brazilian-cut suits may be skimpy, but the Kauai-designed, organic cotton bikinis come with a generaous helping of eco-chic.  

See all these bikinis featured on KGMB9's Sunrise morning news. Click here to watch!