A little over a year ago, a super cute, stylish, and shredding amiga named PK came down to Nicaragua to join us for two weeks of retreats. We noticed that PK was always wearing cute and functional outfits in the water, and she later revealed to us that she was working on her own surf fashion line to be launched at some point during the following year. Her company, KEA, embodies modernity and takes the surf world in a chic direction. During our 2014-2015 season of retreats, we will be carrying some KEA items in our suitcase boutique with a special discount unique to Amigas. PK was gracious enough (she’s a busy, New York businesswoman) to answer some questions for us to give a little insight into her world…
Name? Patricia Kwok
Nickname? PK
Hometown? Hong Kong
Current city? New York
Favorite food? Dark Chocolate
Favorite color? Heather Grey
How and where did you first get into surfing? I was at my cousin’s wedding in Hawaii and thought this surfing mecca would be a pretty good place to learn the sport.
What were you doing before you started your new company, KEA? I was working at a high-end fashion retailer called Tory Burch as a merchant in New York.
How did you come up with the idea to start a surfwear line? Quite simple! I had a hard time finding fashionable and high quality garments I wanted to wear to go surfing!
How would you describe KEA to ladies that surf? Surf-chic swimwear for women who embody timeless grace in and out of the water.
You have traveled and surfed in many places around the world…Which were some of your favorite surf trips and why? Some of my favorite spots include Nicaragua, Sayulita and Biarritz.
Nicaragua – Crowdless surf spots with the crew from SWA and the luxury, eco-friendly resort La Bahia
Sayulita, Mexico – Secluded secret surf spots and amazing Mexican street food
Biarritz, France – Powerful surf and its insanely beautiful coastline
What are some of the crucial items to pack for a surf trip? I love being prepared so some of my essentials include: Booties, Sun Block, Hat, Rashguard, One Piece Suit
What is your favorite surf outfit? My Kingscliff cropped rashguard and Tallows one piece (see picture!)
What was your most memorable wave? A wave I caught in Nicaragua that felt like it would never end.
Where do you see yourself in five years? Spending quality time with my friends and family. Traveling the world to explore and surf. Continue to build KEA and design more styles for the line up.
Who is your favorite surf instructor? Holly Beck is pretty cool =D
Will you please, please come to Costa Rica with us in April? Duh! Blocking off the calendar now.
For more information about KEA, check out the website: www.keagear.com and follow on instagram @keagear.