When I first met Simply Sisters’ owner and designer, Regina “Lola” Miller in 2014 at the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, we instantly bonded over our shared love of hula, the festival and supporting Hawaiʻi’s thriving creative community. It was Merrie Monarch, after all, and I was making the craft fair rounds for all my Hawaiian […]
We all wear masks because we care about our families, friends and the future of humankind. And, because our community of incredibly talented designers are ah-maz-iiiing, we now have another way to show off our aloha spirit and support small businesses. Below, find a roundup of masks in exotic hues and extraordinary patterns that proudly
Almost exactly a year ago, Fighting Eel designers Rona Bennett and Lan Chung teamed up with Hilo-based Sig Zane Designs—two local design powerhouses—to launch one of the most anticipated Hawaiʻi collabs since shave ice was topped with sweetened condensed milk. (You know what I mean.) The limited-edition line of alohawear was released just in time
When three friends launched Kealopiko in 2006, creating unique T-shirt designs that showcased Hawaii’s diverse ecology and native culture—not just your typical Hawaii imagery of palm trees and hula dancers—it was a refreshing change from the usual aloha ware. They went from screenprinting small batches of shirts to full-scale production, some of it done in
No Hawaii vacation is complete without the proper attire. That means rubber slippers (you know, flip-flops), breezy dresses and, of course, the perfect swimsuit. Two iconic Hawaii designers unveiled new collections last month, and you’re sure to find something that fits your beach-y personality, whether you’re planning to surf all day or lounge by the
About five years ago, Shannon Hiramoto, a Kauai-born fashion designer who uses secondhand materials to create garments and bags, received a box of old muʻumuʻu (relaxed aloha print dresses) from a friend’s mom, thinking she could repurpose the material into other clothing. “I upcycled a few into tote bags, but it broke my heart to
Meet Jana and Misha Lam, rising designers in Honolulu, Hawaii. Their connection to and love for the islands inspires their fresh, elegant, handmade jewelry, accessories and screen prints. Here’s why people in Hawaii, and all across the world, are falling in love with their style. Find Jana Lam designs online. Take a look at Misha
