What started as a line of shell and fabric wrap bracelets by mother-daughter duo Kim and Jade Ryusaki, Lotus and Lime quickly grew to one of the most in-demand local clothing brands for men and women. This O‘ahu-based resort wear line has experienced steady success since its inception in 2012, garnering a significant following over the years. The lotus flower in the brand’s name represents purity and resilience, symbolizing Kim’s Japanese and Hawaiian heritage. The lime, meanwhile, is the zest that is found in the bold prints and vivid colors of Hawai‘i, as well as the modernity that Jade brings to the brand. Together, they aim to marry Hawaiian ease with Japanese precision in a fresh, new way.

Both women bring their ample expertise in fashion to the brand. Kim worked for decades as a costume designer in Hollywood, and Jade followed closely in her footsteps, becoming a successful stylist and costumer herself. This has informed the way they approach their designs, creating silhouettes that are both elegant and comfortable, with inclusive sizing, while utilizing unique fabrics in creative combinations. “Culturally-infused wearable art that is timeless, exudes elegance and comfort, while lovingly committed to sustainability,” is how Jade describes the covetable line. This vision is expressed through loose beach kaftans, kimono-inspired cover-ups, and unisex shirts featuring graphic Hawaiian patterns, shibori-inspired prints, and hand-painted florals.

Customers are drawn to Lotus & Lime’s breezy designs with a unique twist that are perfect for island living, but it’s their custom-made, one-of-a-kind pieces that really get people talking. “Our artistry as designers has really evolved over the years, and I think that reflects most in our custom and one-of-a-kind pieces.  Instead of over-producing larger quantities, we’ve taken a step back to focus on smaller capsule collections that are unique and more meaningful,” says Kim. Their latest collection, the Mae Day Collection, is inspired by a 1940s photo of Kim’s grandmother on O‘ahu. Nostalgic prints and chintz florals come together to channel pin-up charm and island romance. 

A significant highlight for the brand in recent years — and what has given it increased exposure — has been its involvement in various fashion shows. They participated in New York Fashion Week in 2022, bringing not only their island fashions to the Big Apple but also highlighting their Hawaiian culture with a full hula dance performance during the runway presentation and a collaboration with local fine jewelry brand Maui Divers. “Ancient Hawaiians were storytellers.  Through music, art, hula — even the stars — we are still telling stories,” Jade explains. “That show was a tribute to where we come from.” Their 2023 Goodwill Goes Glam runway presentation was such a hit that many of the custom-made pieces created for the show (using pre-worn items they curated from Goodwill), such as reworked denim jackets with raffia insets and hand-painted florals, sold out immediately. It is their ability to channel their creativity while also showcasing their culture through these shows that inspires the designers. “It’s really where we can spread our wings and soar to heights we only imagined and simultaneously contribute in meaningful and empowering ways for our culture and community.”

Up next, the designers have partnered with the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement and the Bishop Museum to feature their Mo‘okūauhau and upena-inspired Hō‘ola Collections, showcasing their most meaningful print that tells the story of their brand and the Hawaiian people. They also hope to soon expand to children’s resort wear — motivated by Jade’s recent first pregnancy — and inspire the next generation of Lotus & Lime lovers. “Our designs are created to empower men and women of all shapes and sizes,” says Jade. “I’d describe our customers as the free, expressive men and women who wear their clothes proudly.”

Lotusandlimeshop.com