COMPANY OVERVIEW

ABOUT PAPAYA CON LECHE 

Kata Kis didn’t know one day at the beach was going to change her life, but it did. A chance encounter with an admirer of her customized bikini made by her has turned into a specialty fashion boutique like no other in Costa Rica, maybe even the world. Always the self-starter and innovator, Kata Kis saw the opportunity grow as she was sewing swimsuit after swimsuit for her loyal customers out of her home. She opened her first storefront in Playa Negra and over the years has created over 100,000 custom-made bikinis and casual beachwear items. It is only natural she saw a need for comfortable, customizable shoes and worked with a local taller to create her newest creation. She now offers a personalized shopping experience in her flagship Tamarindo, Costa Rica store.

OUR BRAND STORY

Christopher Columbus called papaya the "fruit of the angels” and we feel the same way. Mix papaya with milk and you have a decadent treat, and that is what we hope you enjoy with your shopping experience at Papaya con Leche. The metamorphosis from the little sewing machine in Kata’s home to the expansive retail space containing a custom-sewing workshop mirrors the transition of the Papaya con Leche brand.  Moving through various identities as La Sirena, Libelula, and The Bikini Factory, the recent name and identity, Papaya con Leche, came about with a favorite paint color name. The flower and lettering of “Papaya” show our playful, free-flowing side and the lettering of “con Leche” reflects a soberer streamline professional look.