how it started

Kekoa Hager, the founder and designer of Kekoa Creative, is a proud Native Hawaiian with strong ties to Hawaiian culture. His journey from Oʻahu to California and Las Vegas highlights the diverse Hawaiian Diaspora. Based in Richmond, California, Kekoa Creative focuses on Slow Fashion, making sure every product, whether made locally or outsourced, is created carefully with respect for the environment and cultural traditions.

With ʻohana ties in Waiʻanae, Oʻahu, and ancestral links to Maui nui a Piʻilani and Moku o Keawe, Kekoa draws inspiration from his heritage, using organic natural fibers and reclaimed waste cotton to create clothing and accessories that resonate with the human orientation to the natural environment. His work not only reflects his passion for fashion but also his dedication to mālama pilina, building strong relationships within the diaspora community through supporting Hawaiian culture and other Kanaka-owned businesses.

As an indigenous-owned small business, Kekoa Creative thrives in local marketplaces and cultural festivals, bringing joy and authenticity to those who appreciate the beauty of Hawaiian fashion and lifestyle. Whether at an event or online, each piece tells a story, inviting wearers to connect with their roots and the land. Today, Kekoa continues to honor his heritage while carving a path to a sustainable future, proudly calling California home and keeping the spirit of the Hawaiian people alive through every creation.