MILO: Our Summer Yellow Hibiscus Floral Swimwear Pattern

The Story Behind Tai Swim Co's Milo Flower Bikini Print

At Tai Swim Co, every design has a story, and the Milo Flower Bikini Print is absolutely no exception. This vibrant and enchanting print is more than just a pattern on recycled swimwear fabric; it's a piece of my heart and a reflection of the natural beauty that surrounds us here in Hawai'i. As the founder and designer, I am thrilled to share the inspiration and journey behind this special print.

A Backyard Inspiration

The Milo Flower Bikini Print was born from a deep connection to the natural world, specifically to the milo tree that grows in my own backyard. Watching the milo tree blossom year after year, I became captivated by its delicate flowers and the way they transform throughout the day. This transformation reminded me of another beloved print of ours, the Floral Ha’ena Print from 2023, which also featured hau flowers that are known for changing color when they drop.

Hand-Drawn with Love

Just like all our prints, the Milo Flower Bikini Print was meticulously hand-drawn. I began by photographing the milo flowers in various stages of bloom, capturing their vibrant hues and intricate details. These photos became my palette as I traced the flowers and brought them to life on paper. Each line and curve was drawn with care, reflecting my admiration for the natural beauty of these blossoms.

A Sister Print to Floral Ha’ena

The Floral Ha’ena Print holds a special place in my heart, and I always knew I wanted to create a sister print that would complement it. Both the hau flowers in the Ha’ena Print and the milo flowers in the Milo pattern share the unique characteristic of changing color. This dynamic quality adds a magical touch to the designs, making them not only visually stunning but also deeply symbolic of the ever-changing beauty of nature.

Fun Facts About Milo Trees

• Native Habitat: Milo trees (Thespesia populnea) are native to coastal regions of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. They thrive in sandy soils and are commonly found along shorelines.

• Color Transformation: Milo flowers are known for their remarkable color change. They start as bright yellow in the morning, transition to orange by midday, and turn deep red by the evening.

• Cultural Significance: In Hawaiian culture, milo wood was traditionally used to make bowls, canoes, and other tools. The tree is considered sacred and symbolizes peace and protection.

• Medicinal Uses: Milo leaves and bark have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including skin conditions, wounds, and fevers.

• Ecological Benefits: The milo tree is valued for its ability to stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion. It provides habitat for wildlife and contributes to the health of coastal ecosystems.

A Personal Connection

Creating the Milo Flower Bikini Print was a deeply personal journey. It allowed me to merge my love for art and nature, and to share a piece of my world with all of you. Each time you wear a Tai Swim Co bikini with the Milo Flower Print, you're not just wearing a piece of fabric – you're carrying a piece of Hawaii's natural beauty and the heartfelt inspiration behind it.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. I hope this print brings you as much joy and magic as it brought me during its creation.

Mahalo, Tai