About the Makers: Saunamekko

Saunamekko began with a simple question: What do you wear in a sauna that feels truly comfortable and practical? Founder Karen Ruohoniemi, a lifelong enthusiast of clothing design, asked this while building her own backyard sauna — envisioning a garment that was easy on, easy off and suited to the heat, movement, and ritual of sauna life.

Ritual, Rest, and Natural Comfort

To bring her idea to life, she teamed up with Kathy Matalamäki, a seasoned theater costume designer and skilled seamstress, and fabric specialist Gary Bieniek to ensure both comfort and functionality in every piece. Discovering a shared connection in their own northern Minnesota roots sparked the partnership, blending tradition, practical design, and personal history into the heart of the brand.

Together, this small team designs thoughtful merino wool garments — minimalist, breathable, and purpose-built for sauna rituals and mindful living — combining heritage, craft, and natural performance in every piece.

The Saunamekko Sauna Dress

Wellness, Worn with Intention

Saunamekko is rooted in the Finnish sauna tradition—where heat, stillness, and simplicity come together as a form of everyday care. Designed in merino wool and guided by intentional living, each piece supports the rituals that help us slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect with ourselves. From sauna sessions to gentle movement and quiet moments at home, Saunamekko’s minimalist wellness wear reflects a Japandi philosophy: fewer, better things made to support how you live, rest, and restore.

Shop Sauna Dress