Our Story

Hi I’m Jess, and I’m proud to share my beautiful collection of swimsuits inspired by Lake Tahoe. Cinque Tahoe was born from a deep love of Lake Tahoe and the Italian spirit of la dolce vita.

The name ‘Cinque Tahoe’ is a riff on Cinque Terre, centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. It’s an homage to the timeless beauty of summertime at Lake Tahoe, perfect for indulging alone or even better to share with a company of great friends and food (and perhaps a glass of Aperol spritz or a spoonful of tiramisu!).

My love affair with Lake Tahoe began in the winter of 2021. A few of my friends and I ended up at Mt. Rose scenic viewpoint, looking out into the beautiful topaz colored Lake Tahoe on a particularly sunny day. It was then I knew I had found what I had been looking for my whole life – the most pure, beautiful, and aspirational place in the entire world, a little “city” in the sky.

“Why is this place so special?” I asked myself this question a hundred times. And after a few years of reflection, I believe it’s this: the adventurous spirit represented by the extreme contrast between the clarity of the lake and the sharp ridges of stunning mountains like Mt. Tallac -- especially in snowfall. In my opinion, it's the best visual representation of the highest excellence that exists in this world.

Now living in Tahoe, I find myself in bikinis year-round, swimming in the lake in summer, and watching snow fall in the hot tub during the winter. Browsing through an endless selection of bikinis online, I found myself desiring more "slow-fashion" swimwear made of high-quality materials and classic designs that withstand the test of time, and are comfortable for running carefree at the beach. So I decided to make it myself. And now I am sharing it with you-- a collection of swimwear that I hope is as special as you are.

No matter where you come from, there is something that connects all of us when we spend time in Lake Tahoe. We’re here to experience the sense of freedom only this place can give. To make our days count. To make the best use of the time we have on earth. To love living life.

Jess Lee
Founder, Cinque Tahoe