Who Decides War designer steps forward with his independent label, Mikael Pono, in a collection inspired by Hawai’i and created with natural materials and dyes
New York, NY – September 9, 2026 – Fashion designer Mikael Pono Skousen, who considers Hawai’i home, will present Genesis, a new collection from his independent label Mikael Pono, on September 14 at Morningside Park in New York City during New York Fashion Week [jump to event details for date, time and ticket information].
The September 14 presentation marks an important step in the development of Mikael Pono as an independent label, bringing together Skousen’s professional experience in New York fashion, experimentation with natural materials and creative connection to Hawai’i.
With Genesis, Skousen brings those experiences together in a collection distinctly his own. A military child who grew up in different places, Skousen maintained a strong connection to Hawai’i, spending summers and holidays there with family.
Hawai’i remains home and has become a defining influence on his creative perspective and his relationship with materials and the natural world. Working with natural fibers, organic materials and natural dyes, Skousen explores unconventional materials and processes while drawing inspiration from the colors, textures and landscapes of Hawai’i. Genesis reflects his interest in what fashion can become when craftsmanship, experimentation and nature intersect.
“Genesis represents a beginning,” said Skousen. “It reflects where I come from, what has shaped me as a designer and where I want to take my work next. Hawai’i has deeply influenced the way I think about materials, color and our relationship with the natural world.”
Genesis is presented in partnership with camera and lens manufacturer Sigma, whose support has been integral to bringing the collection to life. Skousen, a savvy businessman as well as a creative designer, found in Sigma a partner whose values align closely with his own: a longstanding commitment to environmental responsibility, a dedication to master craftsmanship, and a deep affinity for design and the arts. That shared philosophy made Sigma a natural collaborator for a collection built around sustainability and the natural world.
As part of the partnership, Sigma provided photography equipment and visual artists from its ambassador program to photograph Skousen’s one-of-a-kind lookbook, as well as a behind-the-scenes video capturing the designer at work – documentation that reflects Sigma’s broader investment in supporting artists whose work pushes creative and environmental boundaries.
“Sustainability isn’t a footnote for us – it’s core to how we operate and who we choose to work with,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of Sigma Corporation of America. “Mikael’s approach to Genesis, rooted in natural materials and a genuine respect for the environment, reflects exactly the kind of craftsmanship and values we’re proud to support. We’re honored to help bring his vision to life.”
Sneak Peek Lookbook Images
by Sigma Ambassador Meg Loeks
Skousen currently works as a designer with New York fashion brand Who Decides War, where he has contributed as part of the design team to create unique looks for prominent figures across sports, music and entertainment, including Regina King, Rosalía and Jordan Clarkson.
Most recently, he contributed to the team behind Naomi Osaka’s arrival look for the 2026 US Open. Alongside his work with Who Decides War, Skousen has been developing his own creative voice through Mikael Pono. His designs have been featured in Vogue, i-D, WWD, Harper’s Bazaar and Glamour. Mikael Pono designs have also been worn by cast members at the premiere of Apple TV’s Chief of War, starring and executive produced by Jason Momoa.
The Genesis fashion show is presented with sponsorship support from Sigma, L’Oréal, Michael Koutsourais for Cutler Salon, Redken, Makeup Academy of New York, and +POOL.
Event Details
Mikael Pono presents “GENESIS”
Date: September 14, 2026
Location: Morningside Park, New York City
Time: 5:00PM
Tickets available at mikaelpono.com
Media Assets
High-resolution images, designer headshots, Mikael Pono lookbook images and additional press materials are available here:
Please credit photographs and images as indicated in the media kit.
