After graduating from Campbell High School in 2007, Catherine Alviar became a mom, and like many new mothers, loved dressing up her “little princess.”

So earlier this year, inspired by her 4-year-old daughter, Lauren, she opened PLG (Pretty Little Girls) Boutique in Pearlridge Center. The kiosk is located in Uptown, on the second floor in front of Victoria’s Secret.

Aliana Meyer: Striped leggings $19.99, fringe tank top $19.99, HK glasses $8.50

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

“It’s a place that you can go to before a party and buy an outfit for your pretty little girl, and then buy a present for the other pretty little girl,” says Alviar. “We’re kind of a one-stop shop for your little princess.”

The boutique carries clothing and accessories for newborns and girls up to about age 8. There are rompers, hats, bows, tutu dresses, glasses, jewelry, shoes, bubble tops, shorts and other trendy fashions, including designs by Alviar that are exclusive to PLG Boutique.

For more information, follow them on Instagram @_plgboutique_ or call 349-2814.

Also, shop at Pearlridge Center July 19-21 and earn three HawaiianMiles per dollar when you spend $100 or more. Redeem your same-day receipts in Uptown or Downtown Center Court.

2Chillies Swimwear, one of Australia’s largest home-grown fashion brands, has opened its first international store in Hawaii at Waikiki Beach Walk.

Jenna Fettig: 2Chillies Swimwear underwire halter in ‘Oriental’ print $64.95, skirted frill pant $54.95 and 'Jamaica’ fringed towel $49.95; pearl. love. single Tahitian pearl macramé bracelets $50 each

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 8

Known for its fun and vibrant fashion-driven prints, as well as a great fit, 2Chillies Swimwear offers a nice variety of designs to suit all body types, including tops for size A to DD+ cups and bottoms ranging from skimpy Brazilians to full coverage. New prints are released monthly, and only 300 pieces are cut for each shape and size. There also are swimsuits for keiki from age 3 to 10.

“In addition to swimwear (separates, one-pieces, rash guards, boardshorts and surf tights), we offer a full clothing line ranging from beautiful silk cover-ups, day-to-evening attire, and soft and luxurious lounge wear,” says Lauren Easley, 2Chillies Swimwear Waikiki store manager. “Our surf tights are increasingly popular, with many women utilizing them not only for surfing, but also for paddling, yoga and workout pants.”

In August, 2Chillies also debuts its new Brazilian bottom called “Waikiki” with solids starting at just $34.95 and prints at $44.95. There are seven 2Chillies Swimwear stores in Australia, and the label also can be found at many major surf stores, swimwear specialty stores and boutiques throughout Australia. On Oahu, 2Chillies Swimwear is located at 226 Lewers St. Suite 142 (next to Yard House). For more information, visit 2chillies.com.au, join its Club Chillies, follow them on Instagram and Facebook, or call 922-9221.

Jewelry provided by pearl. love. / www.pearllovejewelry.com | Makeup for Jenna Fettig by Brittany Dupee | Hairstyling for Angie Svinarenko and Jenna Fettig by Vivian Lee of Salon Cookie Couture | Makeup for Angie Svinarenko and Brieanna Denman by Nathalie Kim of Salon Cookie Couture

Turtle Bay is known for its surf, vast scenic surroundings, fine resort and endless activities for the entire family. The resort also has been undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation and recently welcomed a new coastal lifestyle retail store called North Shore WaterShed located in the hotel’s lobby.

Caitlin Thomas: Khush dress in blue fishskin $80, RVCA 'Ballesteros' purse in tan $159.50, Havaianas slippers $36, Sand Gems Hawaii earrings $75

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

The WaterShed offers apparel for men, women and youths, as well as a nice selection of accessories, locally made jewelry, art and gift items, including a display of C.F. Martin & Co. guitars, ukulele and Martin-branded products. Featured brands include Quiksilver Waterman Collection, L-Space, Acacia and Mikoh Swimwear, Vans Volcom, RVCA, Roxy, Oxbow, Olu Kai, Maui Jim, Surfer The Bar, an exclusive line of Turtle Bay surfwear and more. There also is an events desk inside that serves as a venue for guests and locals alike to connect to coastal activities and special events.

Also new at the resort is Oakley at Turtle Bay (located next to North Shore Kula Grille at the lobby level), featuring an extensive range of the brand’s eyewear collections, as well as a broad range of men’s surf and lifestyle and women’s training apparel.

For more information, visit turtlebaysurf.com or call 447-6673.

Sisters Zhu Ru and Layla Chen were raised in Honolulu but now live in New York, and wanted to create something that would bring them closer to “home.” So in 2011 they started a swimwear line called Estuaries.

“Living in New York City for so long made me miss the beach lifestyle,” says Zhu Ru, who moved to New York in 1999. “Creating Estuaries was a kind of escape, a way for me to feel closer to the sea.

Gabriella Sheindlin: Estuaries ‘Mekong’ sweetheart bandeau bikini with strap colorblocking details $220

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

“Also, it was perfect timing when Layla moved to New York in 2009. As sisters, creating this collection brought us closer. We find each other filling in one another’s missing gaps; we really work well together. My design and fashion background combined with Layla’s business experience was a great match. We share the same goal and vision, and we both miss Hawaii very much. It just makes sense.”

Zhu Ru, a 1998 graduate of Moanalua High School, attended The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, where she majored in accessories design with a minor in pattern making. After graduating, she worked for Be & D followed by Alexander Wang. Layla, a 2000 graduate of McKinley, studied at University of Hawaii, followed by University of Massachusetts at Amherst for business, and has been working in sales.

They recently debuted their newest collection, which features more leisure wear pieces, including dresses and cover-ups.

“Estuaries is inspired by a beach lifestyle meeting the lifestyle of the city,” says Layla, noting that their pieces feature a seamless finish, interesting but subtle patterns, and are fashion-related with minimalist and clean designs.

“The label is about being versatile, being able to transition from day to night in the same outfit and still look great,” adds Zhu Ru. “We want people to be able to incorporate swimwear into their wardrobe and to add it to their personal style. That’s something we miss from

Hawaii, therefore, we are bringing it here.”

Estuaries can be found at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in Maui and Kona, as well as in specialty boutiques in Hawaii, California and New York. Or visit them online at www.estuariesny.com. For more information, call 646-397-1238.

Photos by Leah Friel
Jewelry provided by Indi Ocean by Mia Bella Belluche / available at Fighting Eel and www.indioceandesigns.com
Styling by Geremy Campos

Driving down Pensacola Street near Ala Moana, there’s a cute little boutique to the right called Baby Soul Hawaii offering a nice selection of resort wear-type fashions, including designs by popular brands Indah and Tiare Hawaii, as well as a great assortment of jewelry and accessories.

Store owner Hitomi Ichikawa, who was born and raised in Tokyo, opened the store last October and says the store has a welcoming atmosphere, so customers who step inside will feel like they’ve arrived at a friend’s house.

Hina Ichikawa: Baby Soul red strapless dress $89, wedge sandals $79, Laakea necklace with sunrise shell $129

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

The store also carries its original Baby Soul collection, as well as Pink Chicken, Ruth d’ian, Laakea and more.

“We try our best to make it easy for customers to find clothes that will look good on them and feel comfortable while shopping,” says Ichikawa. “We have items for kids, teens and adults, so please come with your family. Also, we sell matching clothes, so come and find your favorite outfits together.”

Baby Soul Hawaii is located at 560 Pensacola St. Ste. 104 (about a block before Queen Street). For more information, visit their Facebook page or call 591-1661.

Photos by Leah Friel

Waikiki may be known as the tourist mecca of Oahu, but for locals, it’s a place we get to go to shop, dine and play any day of the year.

Among the stores that have become local favorites is Pineapple County at 342 Lewers St. (behind DFS Galleria). The boutique opened 12 years ago and was known for its trendy fashions perfect for a girls’ night out, but it underwent a “big makeover” last year and is now offering more casual, beach-oriented styles that are still trendy.

Karen Yoo: Beige cardigan $26.99, teal printed dress $34.99, skinny belt $10.99, straw tote bag $34.99

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 10

“We mainly carry women’s clothing and accessories with a few select brand names, but also expanded to men’s and babies’,” says store manager Keiko Paahao. “It is beachy, but also trendy styles that people cannot easily find somewhere else.”

Some of the brands you’ll find include Volcom, Obey, Billabong, Rip Curl, Siwy, Frankie B., Insight, Junk Food, One Teaspoon and more. There also is a great selection of fun gift items, as well as designs from local artists and around the world.

For more information, visit www.pineapplecounty.com or call 926-8245.

Here it is, Neiman Marcus’ Fall 2013 Trend List:

* Animal Magnetism – be wild with spots and stripes, including prints and patterns of leopard, cheetah, tiger and zebra;

* Red – the new neutral;

Justine Godfrey: Diane von Furstenberg black lace jumpsuit $445; Alexander Wang black long vest $895; Givenchy red pandora pouch $570; Vince black pump $375

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 12

* Violet Femmes – from lavender to eggplant, purples reign;

* Rocker Chic – fashion tunes in (get that urban edge look with motorcycle jackets, leather, studs, skinny jeans and biker boots);

* Boys Town – a dash of haberdashery, a touch of tomboy;

* Lace Noir – fade to black, both day and night;

* The Pointed Toe – looks sharp on everything from pumps to boots, as well as menswear inspired flats;

* Scaled-Down Handbags – mini dimensions, major impact;

* The Fall Face – toned down gets turned up;

* Multifaceted Necklaces – gem-cut stones add a flash of brilliance

“Fall’s 2013 music-infused message of Rocker Chic defined the runways and will define a woman’s wardrobe,” notes Ken Downing, Neiman Marcus fashion director. “Light as a feather, supple leathers translate into must-have motto jackets that top everything in a woman’s wardrobe for day and for night. Leather as trim on dresses, skirts, pants and jackets gives a subtle rocker edge to the most-sophisticated style.

“Also, saturated shades of violet and red in every hue becomes the color contrast to black, white and the beautiful browns that become the base of the season. And a red shoe and a red handbag make black worthy of a second look for fall.”

Featured here are some of the ways to wear these trends with fashions from Neiman Marcus. For more information, call 951-8887.

Faces come in many different shapes and sizes. So, when it comes to eyeglasses, one size does not fit all.

Yes, their main purpose is to help you see, but the right pair of spectacles also can be a very stylish fashion accessory.

“The trend is plastic frames with retro shapes,” says Hitoshi Otsuka, vice president at Tokyo Optical. “Also, black and two-tone colors (such as frames where the top of the rim is darker than the bottom) are popular. And vivid color frames, such as red and green, are popular, too.”

Duncan Kamakana Osorio: Four Nines 'style np65' black plastic rectangular frames $420

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 11

Located inside Shirokiya at Ala Moana Center since 1985, Tokyo Optical offers more than 50 brands of frames, including luxury names Tiffany & Co., Bvlgari and Cazal from Germany, as well as popular brands Quiksilver, Roxy and Nike. It also recently received a collection of 999.9 eyewear from Japan, available exclusively at Tokyo Optical. A full-service optical shop, optician Karen Matsumoto and optometrist Paul Chin, O.D. are available for added service and convenience.

“When shopping for new glasses, try it,” says Otsuka. “Check what color makes you look younger or more intelligent or active, and how it changes your look. Also, the shape of the rim is very important. I look for a balance between the customer’s jaw line and the frame shape, making your glasses sit better on your face.

“Also, we have Asian-fit eyeglasses specially made for Asians who do not have a high nose bridge or have high cheekbones. There are many different types of frames and lenses on the market. Make sure you get the best lens type and material suitable for you. Shop many places – each shop has a different selection of frames.”

Featured here are some of the latest styles available at Tokyo Optical. For more information, call 949-7028.

After years of working in retail while creating her own jewelry on the side, Olivia Turner decided it was time to open her own store, so she and boyfriend Branden Chun opened Tasi Boutique in Waialua on the North Shore earlier this summer.

Located at 67-292 Goodale Ave. (Unit 105), Turner describes the store as a modern-day, mom-and-pop, ’round the corner in the country boutique featuring many locally made products and designs.

Keana Romero: Mulata color block maxi dress $38; and Tasi Boutique Jewelry by Olivia and Branden shell bangle in sterling silver $35 and Tahitian pearl bangle in sterling silver $45

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 10

“Tasi, in Chamorro, means ‘the ocean,’ so it’s an ocean-inspired boutique,” says

Turner, who was raised on Guam. “People can find seashell jewelry, pareos, bikinis and beachy dresses.”

Brands available include Khush Clothing, Kealopiko, Lani Lau, Mamalani, Cameron Hawaii, Sunrise Shells Hawaii, Tee’s by Taryn Shimizu and many more. Turner and Chun also dive for and create their own jewelry that is featured in the store, and there’s a great selection of hand-dyed pareos and handmade beauty products also made by the couple.

For more information, follow @tasiboutique on Facebook and Instagram, or call 808-990-1236.

With New York Fashion Week coming to a close last Thursday, island fashionistas still have Hawaii Fashion Week to look forward to. Taking place Sept. 20 from 6:30 to 11 p.m. at LUX at Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk, this annual event features a fashion show and performances by local artists. Singer/songwriter Anuhea has been selected as the Face of Hawaii Fashion Week 2013, and on the runway will be fashions from GORG by Liana Green Wright, Tiare Teiti, Kini Zamora, Waru, Missing Polynesia, 88 Tees and Tali’s Polynesia. There also will be performances by Duncan Kamakana, Aidan James, Miss Polynesia and Mr. Polynesia.

Kelsey Campbell: Tiare Teiti bandeau $45 and skirt $69
Michael Ahina: Tiare Teiti aloha shirt $55
Liana Green Wright: Tiare Teiti maxi dress $159

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

“I wanted to give the local design community a chance to be seen by a bigger audience,” says founder/executive director Ralph Malani, a fashion stylist who also owns a Polynesian model and talent agency and started the Mr. and Miss Polynesia Pacific Pageant. “The only thing that sets us apart from other island resorts around the world is our host culture, and I try to showcase that aspect of design because it makes us unique. Many local designers don’t have the resources to put on a big show and hire a publicist, so we give them those tools to succeed.

“People who come will see stylish, fresh, unique new designs with a touch of island that keeps it special. You always will know you’re in Hawaii at any of my events, and the pride I have for the place I love most on earth is the reason I work so hard to celebrate it.”

Tickets can be purchased at HawaiiFashionWeek.EventBrite.com. For more information, call 398-4944.

Photos by Leah Friel
On location at Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk

Hui Makaala presents its 44th annual Scholarship Luncheon & Fashion Show Oct. 13 at Pomaikai Ballrooms in Dole Cannery featuring designs by local designers/retailers Allison Izu, Cinnamon Girl and Reyn Spooner.

Allison Izu Song started her clothing company in 2007 catering to women 5-foot-6 and shorter. Best known for her denim, Allison Izu also offers skirts, women’s tops and soon will stock clothing for men and children. Her designs can be found at Nordstrom, Collins & 8th and online at allisonizu.com.

Nikki Thommes: Allison Izu 'Hotel' gym shorts with vintage print pocket $108 and Allison Izu 'Toby' wide dolman top in gray $68

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

Cinnamon Girl was founded in 1994 by Jonelle Fujita, who started by selling her clothes at local craft fairs. Known for its feminine dresses and mommy-and-me coordinating outfits, Cinnamon Girl has since grown to six boutiques in Hawaii (Ala Moana Center, Kahala Mall, Pearlridge Center, Ward Warehouse, Whaler’s Village on Maui and Kings’ Shops on the Big Island), as well as an online shop at cinnamongirl.com.

Reyn Spooner has been designing Hawaiian traditionals since 1956, and is known for its high-quality, comfortable, island-inspired shirts and custom prints. On Oahu, Reyn Spooner stores are at Kahala Mall, Ala Moana Center, 125 Merchant St. in downtown Honolulu and Sheraton Waikiki Hotel. There also are stores on Hawaii Island and Kauai, and online at reynspooner.com.

The upcoming Hui Makaala event begins with boutique sales and a silent auction at 9 a.m., followed by lunch and entertainment at noon, and then the fashion show at 1 p.m. Tickets cost $65, or purchase a sponsor “Shisa” table of 10 for $1,200 (includes preferred seating, program recognition, special favor and centerpiece) or “Uchinanchu” table of 10 for $850 (includes preferred seating and special favor). Boutique tables also are available for $110 (per 8-foot table). Proceeds benefit the Hui Makaala Scholarship Fund. For more information, contact co-chairs Valerie Kato or Ryan Okunaga at 277-2035 or email info@huimakaala.org.

Hawaii World Class Wedding Expo XXXI takes place Oct. 25 (6 to 10 p.m.) and 26 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at Hawaii Convention Center with 150 exhibitors offering a variety of wedding services, including photography, location, hair and makeup, catering, floral arrangements, decorations and more.

There also will be fashion shows at 7:30 p.m. Friday (Oct. 25) and 2:30 p.m. Saturday (Oct. 26) featuring the latest bridal gowns, bridesmaids dresses, mother-of-the-bride wear, flower girl dresses and tuxedos.

Ana Torres: Alfred Angelo 'Francesca' fit-and-flair gown with ruched bodice and organza over satin $1,439

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 10

Among the looks to be seen on the runway will be some of the newest designs available at True Elegance, a bridal boutique in Aiea offering wedding, bridesmaid and prom dresses available for purchase or rent. The store carries dresses and gowns from size small to 5X, as well as an assortment of veils and accessories.

Featured here are some of the latest styles from True Elegance, located at 99-185 Moanalua Road. For more information, visit trueelegance.org or call 487-7766.

For more information on Hawaii World Class Wedding Expo XXXI, visit BridesChoiceHawaii.com or call 943-1067.

Photos by Nathalie Walker
Flowers/bouquets from Florist Grand
Hair and makeup by Beverly Kaneshige / www.makeupbybev.com
On location at The Kahala Hotel & Resort

Calypso St. Barth, a luxury lifestyle brand inspired by travel, culture and the arts, has opened its first Hawaii location at Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki.

Michelle Tom: Calypso St. Barth ‘Randori’ sequinencrusted tank top $325, Adriano Goldschmied destroyed wash skinny jeans $235, Hoss zip-back suede bootie $395, and Sisco & Berluti wood bead bracelet $95 each and metal bead bracelet $50 each

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

Since its launch in 1992, Calypso St. Barth has provided women with feminine and unique apparel and accessories featuring exquisite textures, rich colors and special embellishments. The brand’s signature tunics, caftans, flowing lightweight dresses and comfy cashmere sweaters are designed to mix and match into countless combinations for a relaxed, yet sophisticated look which goes hand in hand with the Island lifestyle. The store also carries a nice selection of accessories, handbags, scarves, jewelry and shoes.

Among its growing international following of customers are some of Hollywood’s most recognizable celebrities, such as Jennifer Aniston, Kate Beckinsale and supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio. There are more than 40 Calypso St. Barth stores across the country, plus the original boutique in St. Barth. The Royal Hawaiian Center store is located in Building A, Level 1.

For more information, visit calypsostbarth.com or call 926-1930.

Photos by Leah Friel

Adore in Kahala Mall has opened a sister store across the way called Belle, a fun and trendy juniors and kids boutique with affordable clothing and accessories.

The new store has scheduled a grand opening celebration Oct. 26, offering customers a free gift with a purchase of $25 or more. Plus, receive $5 Belle Bucks toward a future purchase (expires Oct. 31, 2013).

Zoe Shimizu: Manito strapless belted dress $36, necklace $12, link bracelet $8.50, Styluxe 'Adar' ballet flats $26
Stephanie Yasay: Point hi-lo tribal print dress $36, black skinny belt $12, necklace $12, circle bracelet $8.50, DBDK Fashion 'sanliki' black crossover strap wedge sandals $39

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 8

Owner Tasha Yagi, who was born in Virginia and raised in Hawaii, opened popular women’s boutique Adore in 2008 and has more than 15 years of retail and merchandising experience.

“A lot of young girls and teenagers would come into Adore wanting to buy our clothes, but it was really designed for the modern woman,” explains Yagi, a 1991 graduate of Kaiser High and mother of two. “So, I opened Belle to fulfill their desire. It has the same look and feel of Adore, but with sizes from toddler to juniors and affordable prices.”

For weekly updates on new arrivals and promotions, “like” their Facebook page under Belle Clothing and follow them on Instagram @belle_clothing. For more information, call 737-0371.

Photos by Nathalie Walker

Designer Lauren Hayashibara (pictured at left) introduces her new 19th & Whimsy holiday 2013 collection featuring a great assortment of contemporary tops and dresses in festive colors that can effortlessly go from day to night.

“I wanted to describe a place: 19th & Whimsy is the intersection where contemporary fashion meets an element of whimsy,” explains Hayashibara on the name of her line. “The brand is all about incorporating a whimsical element (whether it’s a print, embellishment or simply a little bit of sparkle in the fabrication) into fun and modern styles. I design and sew all styles, as well as design all printed fabric and screen prints.”

Hayashibara, who was born and raised in Los Angeles, earned a bachelor’s degree in apparel product design & merchandising from the University of Hawaii. She previously worked as an intern at St. John Knits in Irvine, Calif., and as an assistant designer and assistant merchandiser for a lingerie and sleepwear company in L.A.

Lauren Ishida: 19th & Whimsy black/white stripe sequin boucle sleeveless tunic $75

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 10

In 2011, she moved back to Hawaii and decided to create her own brand specializing in casual, chic styles of clothing, including tees, tanks, tops, dresses, shorts and skirts that are great everyday go-to pieces.

On Oahu, 19th & Whimsy is available at Basique Threads in Ward Warehouse, LMS Boutique in Manoa, Ronel Boutique in the Hilton Hawaiian Village, Exclusive Hawaii in Aiea (beginning Nov. 1), and online at etsy.com/shop/19thandWhimsy.

For more information, visit facebook.com/19thandwhimsy.

In 2005, Tiffany Lizares started making jewelry as a hobby and soon discovered a passion for it. She also learned she had a talent for it, and she later signed up for classes at Honolulu Academy of Arts (now Honolulu Museum of Art), as well as private lessons from local artists in a variety of styles, including metalwork, glass, ceramics and jewelry.

She made pieces for friends and family, and showcased some of her designs at museum’s end-of-the-year student sale. The response was overwhelmingly positive and, in 2011, she turned her hobby into a business called Lino Hau.

“I don’t sell anything that I don’t love or wouldn’t wear,” says Lizares, who, along with husband Rylan, owns Gracie Technics Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy. “Each piece is modeled after the unique culture and geography of the Islands. My Aina Collection incorporates earthy elements like rocks and crystals, and the Ocean Collection was inspired by the elements of the ocean floor.

Alaine Akau: (bracelets, from left) Lino Hau bracelet made on gold-fill with mother-of-pearl shell and complementary gold and bronzed pyrite micro stones $72; bracelet made on gold-fill with dove shells, pearls, and gold and bronzed pyrite micro stones $98; 'Oh Tahiti' bracelet made on gold-fill with Tahitian pearl, and gold and bronzed pyrite micro stones $148 (necklaces, from top) 'Oh Tahiti' long necklace made on gold-fill with five Tahitian pearls and bronzed pyrite micro stones $595; 'Druzy Hau' necklace made with a sliced Druzy individually hand-wrapped with babbles and pearls on gold-fill, prices start at $148

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

“Also, the Sand Collection is a costume line designed especially for the purpose of omiyage, the Japanese custom of gift giving. And my next collection will have some pieces influenced by my travels, and some limited-edition pieces. Six countries later, I found inspirations in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy and Greece.”

Lino Hau is available in art galleries and boutiques throughout the Islands. For more information or a list of retailers and events, visit LinoHau.com.

For models Alaine Akau and Sharnay Cablayan, hairstyling by Shinell Rios at Vivi Salon and makeup by Judy Wright of l.u.x.x.e. Artistry Hawaii

Hawaii-based clothing company In4mation celebrates the opening of its newest store at 2009 S. King St. in McCully with a special event Nov. 16 featuring music

group Odd Future. The group will sign autographs, take photos with fans, and there will be a special In4mation x Odd Future collaboration tee for sale.

Alex Pendleton: Odd Future ‘golf stripe’ T-shirt, In4mation denim pants $68, In4mation denim ‘hi script’ hat $40

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

Since opening its first store in 2002, In4mation has become a popular lifestyle shop and brand, especially for skaters and surfers locally and around the world. With a background in surf, skate and music, owners Jun Jo, Ryan Arakaki, Todd Shimabuku and Keith Kanagasuku share not only the same hobbies, but also the dream of providing the latest and greatest in streetwear for men and women. The creative entrepreneurs pride themselves in continually pushing forward with designs and aesthetics. Throughout the years, they have collaborated with various companies in designing special limited-edition items, and with artists for events that have drawn big crowds.

“At the time, there were no shops that carried the brands we loved,” says Jo. “We wanted to have a place where people who were into what we were could come down, vibe out and get the type of brands that you couldn’t get anywhere else on the island at the time.”

Some of the brands available include In4mation, Aloha Army, New Balance, Adidas, SLVDR, Odd Future, Nike SB, Huf, SSUR, Undefeated, Stussy, Girl, Chocolate, Fourstar and more.

Also, starting Dec. 1, the store will launch a new program called #1stofthemonth. “We will be dropping a specially designed hat, tee and accessory every first day of the month in a very, very limited quantity,” explains Jo. “Once it’s gone, it’s gone – a collector series.”

In4mation also is located at Pearlridge and in Chinatown (1154 Nuuanu Ave.). For more information, visit in4mants.com or call 841-3831.

Steve Czerniak photo

Meet designer Lynn Sakutori (pictured at right) and shop her newest a-line collection at Macy’s Ala Moana (third floor, Island Attitudes department) Nov. 24 from 5 to 10 p.m. At this special event, customers also will receive a free clutch with any a-line purchase of $100 or more.

Sakutori, who earned a bachelor’s degree in fashion design from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, started sewing when she was just 12 years old. At the time, her family had moved from Oahu to Maui, and her parents encouraged her to take up a hobby to help ease the transition. So she enrolled in 4-H and took sewing classes. “My dad got me my first sewing machine and I never stopped making clothes ever since,” she says.

Tiffany Moritsugu: a-line royal purple boat-neck dress $88

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 10

In 2000, Sakutori moved to New York City to pursue a career in fashion and worked for Kenneth Cole, Nine West and The Limited. Then, in 2007, she moved back to Hawaii and established Sakutori Designs, eventually creating her own clothing lines, including Sakutori at Nordstrom Ala Moana and a-line at Macy’s.

With a personal style of simple, basic pieces that are well crafted, stylish and practical for day, weekends and traveling, Sakutori says finding those great-quality pieces that fit well and at a reasonable price was difficult. So she developed her own fabric.

“A-line features a knit fabric that is made to last and stands up incredibly well to wash and wear,” she explains. “The weight of the fabric also drapes nicely, and the pieces are multi-functional – easy to dress up or down.

“A-line is based on the simplicity of the shape of an ‘a-line’ silhouette. It features clean lines, simple shapes and are great investment pieces – perfect for Hawaii and travel since the fabric is easy to pack.”

Currently, the a-line collection consists of maxi dresses, short dresses, maxi skirts, tops, leggings and tank tops in solid colors and stripes. Sakutori says she plans to introduce prints next year. A-line is available only at Macy’s on Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island and Kauai. For more information, visit Sakutori Designs’ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/a-line/627404890644412?hc_location=stream.

Hair and makeup for Kristin Imose and Tiffany Moritsugu by Sheri Morishige
Photos by Lawrence Tabudlo

Prevent Child Abuse Hawaii presents its 27th annual Brunch with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the

Japanese Cultural Center featuring a children’s fashion show, picture taking with Santa, magicians, costumed characters, children’s games and activities, and more.

Tate Hirayama: Blank Canvas gray T-shirt with computer designed images (customers can customize) $19 ($9 plus $10 for design, or bring in your own shirt and just pay for the design $10)

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

On the runway will be fashions from various local boutiques and designers, including Coradorables, Fighting Eel, Ava Sky, Blank Canvas, Cinnamon Girl, Local Motion and T&C Surf.

Pictured here are some of the latest designs from:

* Coradorables – Winner of the 2013 Governor’s Fashion Award for Best Emerging Designer, Coradorables is designed by Cora Spearman-Chang, who was inspired to start the adorable kid’s line after the birth of her first daughter Izzabelle in 2010. Coradorables can be found at Kenmore Gifts, Lil Nell’s, The Growing Keiki and all Hilo Hattie stores island-wide.

* Fighting Eel and Ava Sky – This year, Fighting Eel founders/designers Rona Bennett and Lan Chung celebrate the company’s 10th anniversary. They have three boutiques on Oahu (Downtown Honolulu, Kailua and Waikiki), and also design a line called Ava Sky.

* Blank Canvas – Located in the arts district in Chinatown, Blank Canvas allows customers to customize their fashion pieces. They offer more than 1,500 designs and dozens of high-quality apparel styles to choose from.

Tickets to Brunch with Santa cost $30 per person (free for children under 2), and can be purchased by calling 951-0200 or online at preventchildabusehawaii.org.

Romeo Collado photo

Jen Kunishima Sarsuelo of Tidepool Love Jewelry has had a love for creating jewelry since she was just 5 years old. She grew up in the jewelry business with her family all helping with her mom’s jewelry company Manoa Designs. Sarsuelo, who attended Punahou School, University of California-Berkeley and University of Hawaii William S. Richardson School of Law, eventually became a licensed attorney in Hawaii and an entrepreneur. She owns 10 retail stores, including several locations of Native Books & Beautiful Things (now Na Mea Hawaii), Hawaii Doggie Bakery & Gift Shop and Cottage by the Sea, and most recently Tidepool Love Jewelry, which she started five years ago.

Her jewelry line has become a favorite for locals, tourists and even Hollywood. According to Sarsuelo, TV show Revenge picked up her entire line for its third season, as well as Hart of Dixie with Rachel Bilson and White Collar with Tiffani Thiessen. Her Pineapple Country ring also will be featured in People StyleWatch, and her keiki/mama jewelry has been seen nationally in Fit Pregnancy and Pregnancy & Newborn magazines.

Haylee Shay Sarsuelo: Tidepool Love 'Large Salty Kisses' keiki necklace $185, 'Keiki Golden Wishes' necklace $60, 'Baby Love' bangle $60 and assorted keiki bangles with shells and Tahitian pearls $60 to $90

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 9

Sarsuelo’s jewelry line is inspired from time spent at her family’s North Shore beach home and with her young children. She carves in jewelers wax and enjoys casting ocean-inspired pieces in precious metals, such as sterling silver and 14kt gold.

“Tidepool Love only uses precious metals, exquisite Tahitian pearls, top-quality semi-precious and precious stones, and, of course, shells from Hawaii, including the coveted sunrise shell,” says Sarsuelo, noting that her promise to never skimp on quality or materials is a gesture of respect to her family of jewelers.

Tidepool Love Jewelry is available at Cottage by the Sea, as well as in more than 30 stores throughout Hawaii and the U.S., including Sand People and Maui Clothing Co. Also, just in time for Christmas, the public is invited to Tidepool Love’s friends & family trunk show Dec. 6 at Cottage by the Sea in Ward Warehouse from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy 25 percent off the entire line, and $500 worth of jewelry will be given away during the event. Also, Sand People in Waikiki will be having a two-week Tidepool Love trunk show starting Dec. 4.

For more information, email tidepoollove@hotmail.com or visit tidepoolhawaii.com.

Photos by Leah Friel
Make up for Kelsey Campbell and Marlie Hinshaw by Nathalie Kim of Salon Cookie Couture // Make up for Caity Owen by Brittany Dupee of Salon Cookie Couture // Hair by Colleen Ikari of Salon Cookie Couture