About Akina

Founded in 2016, Akina is a sustainable swimwear and lifestyle brand designing garments that focus on form and simplicity. Where does the name Akina come from: Akina came from a play on the word bikini - keenie, kina, Akina! Akina means 'spring flower', and symbolises a new life. This couldn't be more suited to our values and commitment to recycled and sustainable resources. Akina's mission is to design beautiful products and garments, without compromising on quality, performance and sustainability.

What led you to establishing Akina:

My last corporate role was with a well-known clothing retail company, where I felt uncertain of my purpose within a fast paced, target driven, bottom-line corporate world. I eventually quit my job not because I was spoiled but because I valued my existence as a happy person. After studying at London College of Fashion, I returned home and founded Akina – a transparent and environmental consciousness womenswear brand. Moving all parts of my business forward on a value system that I’m proud of. Akina is a brand that has honesty, transparency and environmental consciousness at its core.

Who is your customer:

Turns out our sustainable focus appealed to our customers. We try to make things that are timeless, practical and responsible, and this reflects our customer, and all-embracing community.

What would you say are some small steps that people can take to improve their relationship to the environment?

I find it can be all a bit daunting when trying to be more sustainable. I prefer a mindful approach. My lifestyle has just naturally evolved to what feels best for me. It’s all about intention, start slow, introduce good practices and build on that. It is imperative that as human beings, we acknowledge a more minimalistic approach to life. A life not driven by more is better, but the ability to be fulfilled with less.