BIOGRAPHY

German born Suzanna Kuhlemann developed a passion for Hawaii in 1991 during her first visit to the islands for her uncles' weddings. She studied fashion design in Berlin and revisited Hawaii frequently throughout the years.

Fascinated by the history of Aloha wear and charmed by Hawaiian customs, the theme of her Master’s thesis for her final examination was an abstract interpretation of Hawaiian elements and prints.

After graduation she worked for American Apparel in Europe for four years and then began designing her own line in February 2009.

INSPIRATION

1979 is fascinated by how times and places change and how these form a certain era. Our memories and perception are very personal and contexts change as time passes by.

A piece of clothing may evoke personal memories and transport the spirit and values of a certain era with it. This is why we love vintage.

The first design created by 1979 was the Hawaii signature bikini. It is like a celebration of the magical days of Hawaii in the 50s and the essence of Aloha.

1979 represents the birth year of Suzanna’s sister Pia, the captain of Soozou, http://www.soozou.com/ Pia designs of a line of bags made from recycled sails.