INTERVIEW: The sister act behind Mikoh swimwear

Oleema and Kalani Miller grew up on the beach. The California sister act are OC born and bred, so it’s no surprise that they know what makes a good bikini. In their teens they surfed professionally and did a spot of modelling, if there were any further confirmation needed that these Cali girls grew up with sand between their toes.

Their laidback-luxe beachwear line Mikoh is now coveted among designer sunbathers – Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Kate Upton are papped in Mikoh two-pieces regularly. It was only a matter of time before it landed on Arabian shores, and with Harvey Nichols Dubai now exclusively stoking the brand, we decided to find out how the jet setters travel.

What can’t you travel without?
Kalani: I always bring a book with me wherever I go. You never know when you will be stuck at an airport and I always love to have a book handy when sitting on the beach. It’s a nice downtime for me. I also love to travel with my Kindle. It’s a great way to have several books available without the weight. Although, I do love a good hardcover book.
Oleema: You can never leave the house without a bikini! Right now I am loving the Waimea top with the Cayman bottom. They are the Mikoh’s take on the classic bikini and I love that I can still surf and be active in the Waimea top.

What three things are always in your suitcase?
Kalani:

•  Kindle
• Sunscreen. I love Shade Sunscreen. It is tinted and helps me stay protected when I know I am going to be in the sun for extended amounts of time.
• Hat. My mom has always said “Don’t leave the house without a hat,” and I have always stayed true to this. Our Mikoh Panama hat is extra wide brimmed and is like a mini umbrella and great sun protection.

Oleema:

• Polaroid camera. I love traveling with a polaroid camera. At the end of fun trips, I compile all of the photos.
• Sunglasses. Mikoh just launched a sunglass range, Mikoh X Sun, which I am so proud of. I love the Lax, which are oversized and perfect for a day at the beach.
• Turkish towel. I love to have my own Turkish towel when traveling. It can double as a beach blanket or a scarf.

What are your in-flight travel essentials?
Kalani: An extra pair of socks, oversized scarf that can double as a blanket, travel pillow, snacks, and an ultra-thick face moisturiser.
Oleema: Hand sanitizer, oversized hoodie, travel pillow, healthy fresh snacks, and lots of water.

What brand of suitcase do you use?
Both: Samsonite