BONITA KYE, DESIGNER, LA

Founded in 2017, KYE Intimates is an artfully minded lifestyle collection designed for everyday wear. Their pieces are decidedly modern, balancing softness and functionality with sensuality and romance. Inspired by real people and genuine connections, KYE is a reminder to foster a gentle relationship with ourselves, those we love, and Mother Earth.

In celebration of KYE launching at Lee Mathews in the lead up to Mother's Day, we asked Founder Bonita a few questions about her creative practice and her relationship with her Mum.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind starting Kye Intimates?

At the time, lingerie primarily served either pure functionality or external enjoyment. KYE launched with a capsule collection of intimates, designed with the woman at the forefront—each piece blending functionality, comfort and a touch of romance. As we expanded, the collection has naturally evolved to include a range of basics designed to be building blocks of a purposeful wardrobe.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?

We’ll call it a touch of self-service ;) but I begin by identifying the gaps in my own wardrobe. From there, I get lost in a ton of fun ideas yet I think the most important part of my process is the on-going editing and refining of our core collection. Every piece holds a purpose. While it might sound pragmatic, I believe in the end, it’s a creative process that not only prioritises beauty but functionality, comfort, cost per wear, and ultimately a bit more earth friendly!

How do you approach choosing your materials for each collection?

Our collection is mainly comprised of powermesh and a bamboo jersey with a cashmere-feel. What captivates me most about these materials is its hand feel and drape. The duality of these materials allows you to create structured silhouettes, while maintaining an element of sensuality.

What sustainable practices do you prioritise as a business?

We are continuously learning and working towards improving our practices. Our pieces are designed and handmade in close partnership with a local, female owned factory. Our materials are carefully sourced from surplus warehouses in Los Angeles.

In hopes of helping divert re-usable items going to landfills, we donate our lightly worn samples to a local organisation who collects and distributes bras and menstrual hygiene products to women experiencing homelessness, victims of domestic violence and refugees affected by natural disasters.

What KYE pieces are in your daily rotation?

The Recline Bateau sleeveless and the Recline tank are perfect basics for layering or wearing on their own. The Recline pant is my go to for errands, travel and rest.

When do you feel most yourself?

With friends, after a swim or a nice shower.

how do you unwind?

Lounging in bed with my husband, pup and a good book.

who, what and where do you turn to for inspiration?

People watching at the farmers market, bookstores, places where people aren’t necessarily trying to impress, they’re just comfortable. I find that’s when people are the most beautiful. My friends, they are luckily much cooler than me. Swimming or walking, it’s where I often find myself naturally in a meditative state without intentionally meditating.

Bonita's Mom.

What routines or rituals has your mum passed down to you?

From a young age, my mom instilled the importance of self-care through simple routines like dry brushing, which I once resisted but has now become a favorite part of my evening ritual. Growing up in a Buddhist household, our home was always filled with the scent of incense. Now lighting incense has become a part of my mornings and will always make me think of her.

Can you share with us a special moment you've had with your mum?

Oh, there are countless! One that comes to mind isn’t a moment in particular but I’ve always adored our daily phone calls, even more so now that she’s much older. She’s really witty and has a wealth of sage words.

Bonita Kye @bonitakye

www.kyeintimates.com

BONITA KYE, DESIGNER, LA

Founded in 2017, KYE Intimates is an artfully minded lifestyle collection designed for everyday wear. Their pieces are decidedly modern, balancing softness and functionality with sensuality and romance. Inspired by real people and genuine connections, KYE is a reminder to foster a gentle relationship with ourselves, those we love, and Mother Earth.

In celebration of KYE launching at Lee Mathews in the lead up to Mother's Day, we asked Founder Bonita a few questions about her creative practice and her relationship with her Mum.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind starting Kye Intimates?

At the time, lingerie primarily served either pure functionality or external enjoyment. KYE launched with a capsule collection of intimates, designed with the woman at the forefront—each piece blending functionality, comfort and a touch of romance. As we expanded, the collection has naturally evolved to include a range of basics designed to be building blocks of a purposeful wardrobe.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?

We’ll call it a touch of self-service ;) but I begin by identifying the gaps in my own wardrobe. From there, I get lost in a ton of fun ideas yet I think the most important part of my process is the on-going editing and refining of our core collection. Every piece holds a purpose. While it might sound pragmatic, I believe in the end, it’s a creative process that not only prioritises beauty but functionality, comfort, cost per wear, and ultimately a bit more earth friendly!

How do you approach choosing your materials for each collection?

Our collection is mainly comprised of powermesh and a bamboo jersey with a cashmere-feel. What captivates me most about these materials is its hand feel and drape. The duality of these materials allows you to create structured silhouettes, while maintaining an element of sensuality.

What sustainable practices do you prioritise as a business?

We are continuously learning and working towards improving our practices. Our pieces are designed and handmade in close partnership with a local, female owned factory. Our materials are carefully sourced from surplus warehouses in Los Angeles.

In hopes of helping divert re-usable items going to landfills, we donate our lightly worn samples to a local organisation who collects and distributes bras and menstrual hygiene products to women experiencing homelessness, victims of domestic violence and refugees affected by natural disasters.

What KYE pieces are in your daily rotation?

The Recline Bateau sleeveless and the Recline tank are perfect basics for layering or wearing on their own. The Recline pant is my go to for errands, travel and rest.

When do you feel most yourself?

With friends, after a swim or a nice shower.

how do you unwind?

Lounging in bed with my husband, pup and a good book.

who, what and where do you turn to for inspiration?

People watching at the farmers market, bookstores, places where people aren’t necessarily trying to impress, they’re just comfortable. I find that’s when people are the most beautiful. My friends, they are luckily much cooler than me. Swimming or walking, it’s where I often find myself naturally in a meditative state without intentionally meditating.

Bonita's Mom.

What routines or rituals has your mum passed down to you?

From a young age, my mom instilled the importance of self-care through simple routines like dry brushing, which I once resisted but has now become a favorite part of my evening ritual. Growing up in a Buddhist household, our home was always filled with the scent of incense. Now lighting incense has become a part of my mornings and will always make me think of her.

Can you share with us a special moment you've had with your mum?

Oh, there are countless! One that comes to mind isn’t a moment in particular but I’ve always adored our daily phone calls, even more so now that she’s much older. She’s really witty and has a wealth of sage words.

Bonita Kye @bonitakye

www.kyeintimates.com