Keone Nunes
Wahine Toa
Lauwa'e
Puamana Crabbe
Manuheali'i
Hina
Marques Marzan
The stage was beautifully adorned with tall, fresh flower arrangements that anchored a wide runway. Attendees were clothed in a mix of traditional and modern Polynesian attire, many also draped with sweet smelling lei. The Historic Hawaii Theatre was truly a grand setting for the fashion show.
What I loved most about the show was how much each designer was inspired by the Hawaiian culture. Whether the inspiration came through the beauty of the land, the Hawaiian language or through dance, these Hawaii designers demonstrated a deep passion for their culture that transpired through their designs.
I also loved that each designer used models of different shapes, sizes and ages on the runway. Real people in real designs. It was refreshing and inspiring! Dolce and Gabbana brands their company in a similar fashion using models of a variety of ages and sizes in their advertisements and runway shows to convey life like scenarios.
The MAMO fashion show opened with Keone Nunes, a Native Hawaiian tattoo artist. Chanting and the beat of the ipu transcended the audience to the days of old as Keone's models displayed traditional Hawaiian tattoos accentuated by plain, traditional (and revealing!) attire. Half way through, the show transitioned to a more modern display of Keone's tattoos with the upbeat singing of Alicia Key's "Girl Is On Fire" sung in Hawaiian.
Wahine Toa designed by Nita Pilago was next up on the runway. Her colorful designs were complemented with accessories by Lufi Luteru and Momi Greene. Moku O Keawe sang live Hawaiian music as couples walked the runway displaying a variety of Hawaiian and Tahitian inspired outfits. This popular brand sold out completely at the trunk show/after party. I was lucky enough to snag the last aloha print shirt for my husband, a teal silk button up that he will look ravishing in :)
Lauwa'e, designed by Laurie Nalani Downing, was a Tahitian inspired collection full of large patterns and vibrant colors. The style of the clothing reminded me of the many different ways Tahitians tie their pareos (sarongs). Looks were comfortable with a touch of sensuality and I loved the low back details especially on the jumpsuits!
Puamana Crabbe described her collection as "stylized business attire with a hint of culture." Prints were whimsical and not so traditional but accessorized with unique Hawaiian style accessories, one of my favorites being a woven fedora. Puamana Crabbe was the only designer to show a bridal gown. I would love to see more bridal from her!
After the intermission, Manuheali'i took my breath away as the opening of their show featured one of my favorite Hawaiian musicians Aaron Sala on a grand piano rising from the orchestra pit opposite a couple nestled in a French Bistro setting. Manuheali'i, designed by Danene Lunn, revealed their Mosaic Kukui Collection which was enhanced with accessories by Urban Sand designed by Randie Lunn. The women's designs were fresh and modern as Manuheali'i wasn't afraid to mix modern prints with their original Hawaiian prints. They also featured some great cover ups for the summer. I am anxiously awaiting the release of this line and think it will set a new trend for Hawaiian designs.
Maile Andrade is a Native Hawaiian visual artist and was the 2013 MAMO awardee. Her designs are currently being exhibited at the Bishop Museum through October. She designed elegant textiles that are hand dyed, printed, stamped and silk screened. She says, "when you wear a Maile Andrade Collection you have beauty on your side."
Hina, designed by Kanani Miner, was inspired by Hina the Hawaiian goddess of the moon. The collection shown was Hina Ulu Ohi'a inspired by the Lehua flower, "a choice flower that never fades." Kanani is a young designer and 2007 graduate of the Honolulu Community College Fashion Technology Program. All prints are hand drawn by Kanani herself. Another one of my favorite Hawaiian musicians Natalie Ai performed live and a few of the models even danced hula on their way down the runway.
Marques Marzan was the closing designer and the most artistic of the eight designers showcased. Everyone was at the edge of their seats as each completely unique design emerged. Marques focused his collection of the use of line and color. He says, "a line is movement, color is sensual and light." His intricate and delicate designers were a perfect way to end the night.
For more information about MAMO visit www.maoliartsmonth.org.
May the fierce be with you!
xoxo*j
A special Mahalo Nui Loa to Kawehilani Unga who accompanied me to photograph the event!
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