If there’s a designer who truly captures the essence of The Golden State, it’s LA native Jenni Kayne. Her soulful approach to California living is embodied in her namesake collection, around fashion, travel, and interiors. Here, the entrepreneur and working mom, who is part of the CFDA Beach House at Fred Segal on Sunset, describes her summer wardrobe staples and how she plans to spend her time off with her family.
How do you plan to spend this summer? Do you have any exciting summer plans?
Summer is for Lake Tahoe. Growing up, my mother would take me and my sisters up to our family house there and we’d spend the summer on the lake, swimming, boating, and just enjoying being in nature. Eventually, my parents sold the house but after I had kids of my own, I started growing nostalgic for our summer home. My sisters and I looked for one of our own and found the exact house we grew up going to. We bought it, remodeled it, and now spend our summers up there with our kids with friends and family floating in and out.
Describe your summer style.
My summer style doesn’t differ too much from my year-round style in the sense that I always like my wardrobe to be simple, pared-back, and not too complicated. In the summertime, I love a big straw hat for gardening or walking around outside, slides or sandals that I can wear with shorts during the day or a dress at night, and a lot of linen.
What are some essential items for every summer wardrobe?
Lots of woven, natural materials: a straw bag, cotton separates, and leather sandals.
How do your travels inspire your designs? Are there any destinations that have a special meaning or influence in your work?
Travel always inspires my designs, whether it’s seeing something I haven’t seen before or a new experience that shifts my perspective or shapes an idea I’ve had rattling around for a while. I’m always inspired by nature and the outdoors and that’s always in my mind when I’m designing.
What’s your most memorable or favorite vacation you’ve ever taken?
Going to Italy with my family was so inspiring. The way they treat food and family there really shaped the way I entertain, cook, and host. Meals are long and languid, and food is simple and fresh. That’s always how I want to eat.
If you could take a vacation anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
It’s not the most exotic place, but I love Santa Ynez. It’s a small little ranch community outside of LA and my godmother, who taught me a lot about gardening and taking care of animals, lives there. It’s always a nice place to return to.
