ABOUT

Photo courtesy of Ramsey Cheng

Photo courtesy of Ramsey Cheng

Created for those who love modern design, recognize quality workmanship and appreciate small-batch availability.

At an early age, Rumi spent hours poring over her mother’s Bazaar magazines and recreating designs using makeshift patterns and an old Singer. Influenced deeply by her Japanese heritage and a childhood immersed in the creative counter-culture of Northern California’s Bay Area in the late 1970’s, Rumi’s design philosophy follows a tradition of handcrafting as opposed to high volume production.

All patterns and samples are made by Rumi in our Kaimuki studio. We believe in sustainable and ethical business practices.  We believe in supporting other local artists, designers and makers. We believe in nurturing collaborative relationships with highly-skilled individuals, sewers, tailors and suppliers which allows our small business to continue crafting in Hawai`i.

THE ATELIER

Located in the Kaimuki neighborhood of Honolulu, our space features retail shopping and a peek into our creative space. We are currently open for shopping by appointment. You may find one of a kind items mixed in with our collection as well as ongoing collaborations pieces with our creative partners.

The collection is offered off the rack and cut to order.

Contact us.

 

RUMI MURAKAMI HISTORY


1985-1995:

  • Graduates from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.

  • Works with independent designer Diana Slavin in San Francisco, honing technical and design skills.

1996-2007:

  • Becomes an advocate for systemic justice and works with the Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

  • Provides freelance pattern-cutting services to local surf and aloha wear brands.

2007-2012:

  • Transitions from Northern California to Hawaii, adjusting her design aesthetic to the tropical climate.

  • Formulates a "slow fashion" business model, focusing on limited production.

2013-2014:

  • Launches her brand with five lightweight, unlined pieces.

  • Moves from a home studio to a design studio in Honolulu, joining the Cut Collective, and collaborates with local designers.

2015-2019:

  • Moves operations to Boxjelly, a coworking community near Fishcake.

  • Collaborates with artists, expanding her use of printed fabrics and new silhouettes.

2020-Present:

  • During the COVID-19 pandemic, relocates to Kaimuki, working with Rachel Flemister and Sanna Myers at Koko Studios.

  • Continues collaborations with artists like Colleen Kimura and Sig Zane.