JOHANNA CHONE
In the world of fashion, where trends come and go with the changing seasons, Johanna Chone has managed to carve out a unique and enduring place for herself. A German-born model with a portfolio that spans across many continents, Chone has graced the covers of internationally recognized magazines such as L’Officiel, Elle, Numero, Glamour, and Marie Claire. Beyond her success on the runway and in high-profile editorials, she’s also the creative force behind Nalu Swimwear, a brand that has quickly gained traction and been featured on the prestigious runways of Miami Swim Week.
Chone’s journey in fashion started at a young age. Growing up in Germany, she began modeling professionally as a teenager, quickly catching the attention of major fashion houses and publications across Europe. Her career soon took her to fashion capitals like Milan, Paris, London, and New York, where she honed her skills and built a reputation as a versatile model capable of effortlessly transitioning from high fashion editorials to commercial campaigns. This international experience gave her a broader perspective on the industry, allowing her to work with a diverse range of clients including Lacoste, Levi’s, D&G, Armani, and Bobby Brown, among others.
Despite her early success, Chone never settled for just one path. Modeling, while fulfilling, was only one aspect of her creative journey. Her love for design and entrepreneurship led her to explore new ventures, and during a trip to Hawaii in 2020, the idea for Nalu Swimwear was born. “Hawaii’s natural beauty and vibrant culture were incredibly inspiring,” Chone recalls. “I was looking for something fresh and unique in swimwear, something that could blend style and elegance with quality and class. When I didn’t find exactly what I was looking for, I decided to create it myself.”
Nalu, which means “wave” in Hawaiian, is more than just a swimwear brand for Chone—it’s a reflection of her personal style, values, and creative vision. The brand is committed to sustainability, with a focus on using locally sourced materials and ethical production practices. “It was important to me that Nalu not only looks good but also does good,” says Chone. “From supporting small businesses in Miami to ensuring fair trade labor practices in our manufacturing, I want Nalu to stand for something meaningful.”
Creating Nalu was a natural progression for Chone, who has always been drawn to design. Even during her busiest years as a model, she found time to study corporate sustainability at Harvard University and earned a Master’s-level certificate in the field. This academic background, combined with her firsthand experience in the fashion industry, gave her the knowledge and confidence needed to launch her brand. “Fashion design is my true passion,” Chone explains. “When I started working on Nalu, I realized how much I enjoyed the process of creating something from scratch. It didn’t feel like work—it felt like a calling.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Chone is an avid lover of the outdoors and a multi-disciplinary athlete. Whether it’s surfing, wakeboarding, snowboarding, or hiking, she’s happiest when she’s surrounded by nature.
As Chone continues to balance her modeling career with running a growing business, she remains focused on staying true to her values and vision. “The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that flexibility in thought and resilience are key to success,” she says. “Whether it’s on the runway or in the boardroom, being open to new ideas and staying motivated is what keeps me going.”
Johanna Chone’s story is one of evolution—both as a model and as an entrepreneur. From gracing the covers of major magazines to launching a swimwear brand that’s making waves, she embodies the perfect blend of creativity, ambition, and authenticity.
You can follow Johanna on Instgram at: @johaniii_