Meet Akemi Hausammann | Founder of HAUSAKE

I am Japanese Cuban, born and raised in Miami. Being from two completely different cultures, I would like to think it brought me to having a good balance between being an intro and extrovert. As we know there isn’t a large Asian Community in Miami, so growing up I seemed to always embrace my Cuban heritage. Not complaining about it, I am very much Hispanic in personality and Asian in appearance. That being said, my background influenced me create a brand, HAUSAKE, that is dedicated to celebrating my Japanese roots and my “East meets West” attitude.

My career as the owner of a clothing brand is just beginning. I’d like to think that what sets me apart from others is that I am putting out quality products that is authentic to me, to the name, and to the story. I had not studied fashion. I majored in business and finance, so there were definitely several challenges. It isn’t easy, but it isn’t hard either. Budgeting is essential, but so is having fun. I’m learning and growing myself throughout this process. I did overcome a few challenges through an online program; Parsons x Complex Streetwear Essentials. Through that program I was able to connect with a community online and share different resources for premium manufacturers, etc. HAUSAKE is a clothing brand that consistently pays homage to an “East meets West” lifestyle.

As a Miami native I’d start off with the classic stop at Versailles, for a Cuban coffee and the most non-Cuban pastry, their almond brittle. Don’t knock it until you try it. Followed by lunch at Doya, because it’s so delicious and Mediterranean cuisine is always at the top of my list. I think it’s also important to showcase Wynwood. There are great galleries and museums to visit, like the Museum of Graffiti and Wynwood Walls. An evening at Dante’s HiFi would be a must. For an authentic American meal I always stop at Kush, they always serve delicious burgers or Hometown BBQ. You cannot visit Miami without shopping the boutiques at Design District and taking a little break at the Mia Market. They have the delicious and casual omakase Sushi by Yasu and great cocktails. Little Havana is another area where I would take my friends. The rooftop at Terras is great for watching the sunset and enjoying tasty libations.  I also think you can always find fun people in Downtown at Over Under or Margot. Coconut Grove is beautiful and where I have many memories growing up, so I’d take my friends for a walk through memory lane and make a stop at Strada or Alma for Italian or Lebanese food.

I would not have begun HAUSAKE without the supportive team I have in Italy and my friends and family here in Miami who have helped me along the way. I have to say the biggest shoutout has to go to my husband, Federico. He’s been my biggest supporter, from putting me in touch with the right sources, and being my biggest cheerleader. He really has supported me throughout the process, even when I doubted myself the most.