Our Story
Fashion-forward. Sustainably made. Born in Los Angeles.
The Founder
ARIKO was born from a moment of reinvention. Founder Ariel Kochbarski spent over 20 years building a career at the highest levels of fashion — including a coveted role as a buyer at Saks Fifth Avenue — before the 2020 pandemic brought an unexpected turning point. Laid off and faced with uncertainty, Ariel leaned into her expertise and pivoted to styling celebrities and entrepreneurs, sharpening her eye for what people truly want to wear and how clothing makes them feel.
In April 2024, she channeled two decades of industry knowledge, her own savings, and an unwavering belief in doing things the right way into launching ARIKO — a brand built on authenticity, craft, and a deep love for the California coast.
The Vision
ARIKO is inspired by the vintage surf culture of the 1960s — the freedom, the sun-bleached indigo, the effortless cool of life lived close to the ocean. We translate that spirit into modern, fashion-forward pieces that move with you from the shore to the street.
We believe style and sustainability are not opposites. Every decision we make — from the fabrics we source to where we manufacture — reflects our commitment to doing better for people and the planet, without ever compromising on design.
What We Stand For
🌿 Environmental Consciousness
We source natural fabrics and materials to minimize waste. Our garment dyeing process — including our signature bleached indigo — pays homage to surf heritage while reducing environmental impact. Better practices, beautiful results.
🤝 Inclusivity by Design
Over 90% of our products are unisex. We design for people, not gender — because great style belongs to everyone.
🏭 Made in Los Angeles
Our knits and denim are manufactured locally in Los Angeles. We invest in local craftsmanship, support our community, and maintain close oversight of every step of production. When you wear ARIKO, you're wearing something made with care, close to home.
🧵 Material Transparency
We believe you deserve to know what you're wearing. From 100% cotton knits to 13 oz bull denim, we're committed to sharing the full story of our materials — their origin, their composition, and why we chose them.
Where You'll Find Us
ARIKO is proud to be carried by some of the world's most respected retailers:
- Nordstrom.com
- Wolf & Badger — London
- SurfBored
- and more!
Self-Funded. Independent. Intentional.
ARIKO is entirely self-funded — built on Ariel's own investment and belief in this vision. That independence means we answer only to our values and our customers. No shortcuts. No compromises. Just clothing made the way it should be.
"I started ARIKO because I believe fashion can be beautiful, responsible, and real. Every piece we make is a reflection of that belief."
— Ariel Kochbarski, Founder