I am a self-proclaimed sweater girlie. They are my favorite clothing item, as evidenced by my closet, which can barely fit my entire collection. But sweaters are typically $30 and pill easily, or $300 and way out of my budget. I was so excited to find KERISMA, an AAPI-owned knitwear brand that aims to be the perfect Goldilocks middle. It’s a boutique brand nestled between disposable fast-fashion and inaccessible luxury labels, with most items falling in the $70-120 range.
Father-daughter team Phil and Lihui Ke founded KERISMA almost 15 years ago. Their designs are inspired by the creative, smart, and free-spirited woman, as well as Phil and Lihui’s multicultural upbringings in Wenzhou, Paris, and NYC. They’re also doing a lot of good: since 2020, 2% of KERISMA’s profits go toward arts and culture programs. Sustainability is at the forefront of their craft and they are continually searching for materials that are better for the earth, as shown in the eco yarns section of their website.
While they have some traditional pieces, KERISMA designs typically fall on the contemporary side. The newly unveiled SS24 collection contains a mock neck crop top in cyber lime and orange dream, and a structured A-line pleated skirt in stripes of blue. I own one of their bestsellers, the Neo Sweater, in the shade “Violet Multi,” which transitions from brown and red to bright purple and orange and back again. Made with 92% recycled polyester and 5% wool, it’s the perfect sweater to throw on with a pair of jeans or dress up with a satin skirt.
If color isn’t your cup of tea, KERISMA also plays with varying shapes and textures, like scalloped hems, eyelet patterns, and ribbed fabric. In addition to sweaters and cardigans, they carry skirts, pants, dresses, scarves, wraps, and even the ultra-trendy balaclava.
I’m always looking for ways to shop sustainably, and there’s no better way to do that than supporting a family-owned small business. KERISMA is a brand I’ll continue to turn to for high-quality and eye-catching knits that don’t break the bank.
Want to support more AAPI brands in 2024? Check out our must-haves from AAPI-owned beauty brands.
