Gavin Casalegno might be known to the world as The Summer I Turned Pretty’s charming heartthrob Jeremiah Fisher, but this past Saturday (April 19), he stepped into a brand-new role: fashion founder.
With sunshine, smiles, and Topo Chico in hand (yes, he’s that obsessed), Gavin launched his deeply personal clothing line Kai Lo at La La Land Kind Café in Los Angeles—a spot just as intentional and feel-good as the brand itself. Celeb Secrets was on the scene (and sipping matcha), getting the exclusive scoop from Gavin on everything from the meaning behind the name to his favorite hoodie in the drop.
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So what exactly is Kai Lo? More than just cozy-meets-cool pieces, the line is a reflection of Gavin’s many sides—from comfy and creative to stylish and structured.
“I really wanted to start a brand that was able to express myself in different parts of me,” Gavin told Celeb Secrets at the event. “Each collection shows a different personality type that I have… I can either be really comfy and crazy or dress it up and make it look cool with awareness and intent.”
The debut pieces deliver on that promise, with coastal-inspired hues, wearable silhouettes, and a surf-meets-street vibe Gavin says he wanted “post-surf hangouts” and “stylish airport fits” alike to capture.
“This collection is something I could wear after surfing—it’s comfy but also stylish,” he shared. “Even the stars and the colorways… I wanted to elevate the casual look.”
Just like La La Land Kind Café stands for kindness and intentionality, Kai Lo is rooted in purpose-driven living. The name itself? A subtle nod to the journey of self-expression and meaning Gavin’s been walking IRL.
“Some of the pieces have meanings, messages… little things I’ve taken from my life,” he said.
And if you thought Gavin did this solo, think again. His wife, Cheyanne King Casalegno, played a key role in bringing the vision to life — talk about a power couple!
“It’s been so fun working with her,” he gushed. “We really bounce off each other creatively—whether it’s the fits or the color palettes. She definitely helps with the design process.”
If you’re only snagging one piece from the drop (though, let’s be real, you’ll want the whole collection), Gavin recommends the gray Depth Over Surface Zip-Up Hoodie ($125) — a go-with-anything staple that’s as cozy as it is versatile.
“I love the silver zip-up. The tone is really nice—goes with whites, blacks, anything. I’ve been styling it with silver jewelry lately,” he said, casually flexing his inner stylist.
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Of course, we had to ask what Gavin’s Summer I Turned Pretty alter ego Jeremiah would rock from Kai Lo. “Definitely the NCO Tee — it’s cropped, kind of trendy, and super his vibe,” he said with a laugh. “And he wears socks with everything.”
Speaking of Jeremiah… Gavin didn’t give too much away about Season 3 of The Summer I Turned Pretty (we tried!), but he did hint at a fresh twist.
“Jenny [Han] actually said something recently that its not going to be exactly like the book,” he teased with a smirk. “I’m excited for fans to see how the story evolves. It’s so fun to work with the cast and everyone’s so sweet — like even the lighting crew and the grip crew — you have this family. I’m gonna miss them a lot. I feel like it’s definitely bittersweet.”
Gavin also shared how stepping into “adulting” has shifted his focus. “I’m 25 now. I started 21, so it’s just crazy to think about how young I was and how much growth has happened in my own life,” he said. “I think as much as I do want there to be more Jeremiah, I’m excited just to step more into personal goals.”
You won’t have to wait long for more drops. Gavin teased a full slate of fresh styles headed your way.
“For the next nine weeks, we’re coming out with new takes — split options, hoodies, more elevated fits. I think the next collection will be our biggest statement yet,” he hinted.
Before we let him go, Gavin shared one final secret… he doesn’t drink water. Okay, that’s dramatic — but kinda true. When asked for a little-known fact, Cheyanne, who was also in attendance to support her husband’s huge milestone, spilled the real tea.
“He’s obsessed with Topo Chico. Like… he only drinks Topo Chico,” she joked.
Gavin confirmed, “Two packs a day. It’s bad.”
And in case you’re wondering, if Kai Lo had a theme song? Gavin picked “Here Comes the Sun.” Honestly, could there be a better vibe?
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Whether you’ve been crushing on Gavin since TVD or discovered him through TSITP, one thing’s for sure — his journey from screen to streetwear is just getting started. And with Kai Lo, he’s not just designing clothes. He’s building a brand with heart, intention, and a whole lot of soul.
You can shop the first Kai Lo drop here, and watch our full interview with Gavin below.
Quotes have been condensed and edited for clarity. With reporting by Kennia Cardenas.
