Two Fashion Shows Coincide with Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo
This week, Hilo is buzzing with excitement as two different fashion shows take place alongside the renowned Merrie Monarch Festival. Both events promise to showcase the talent and creativity of Hawaii’s designers, musicians, and artists.
The Hawaii Fashion Showcase at Lili‘uokalani Park and Gardens
Thanks to the support of the Merrie Monarch Festival, the fifth edition of the Hawaii Fashion Showcase will be held at Lili‘uokalani Park and Gardens. This unique event, taking place on Tuesday, merges wearable arts with beautiful lighting and a specially-prepared sidewalk that serves as the runway for the models.
222 Productions, the team behind the Royal Ball, is responsible for lighting up the park and creating the atmosphere for the Hawaii Fashion Showcase. This year, the theme of the show is “Jewels of the Land and Sea,” inspired by Merrie Monarch’s beginnings on Coconut Island. The runway will feature a fog machine, lighted trees, and a red glow symbolizing the volcanic energy of the island.
The show will highlight the work of various talented designers, including Simply Sisters, LexBreezy, Sig Zane, Coconut Ave collaboration, Kahulale‘a, Aaron Kai, and Amos Kotomori. Each designer will incorporate elements representing the jewels of the land and sea, such as kukui nuts, feathers, pearls, and shells. Adding to the excitement, each designer will be paired with a Hawaii musician who will perform as models showcase their wearable art on the runway. The performers include Wehilei, 8RO8, Dillon Pakele, I.A. 808, Brittni Paiva, and Chardonnay.
Adding a touch of tradition and cultural significance, Miss Aloha Hula 2016, Kayli Ka‘iulani Carr, will be performing a hula to open the show. Ross, the founder of 222 Productions, encourages the models to bring the fashion to life by embracing the fun and expressing themselves through dance. By honoring King Kalakaua’s legacy, Ross believes the show not only celebrates Hawaiian culture but also adds a unique energy and sense of place to the event.
With expectations for this year’s show to be the largest production of its kind in Hawaii, all profits from the Hawaii Fashion Showcase will be donated back to the Merrie Monarch Festival. This collaboration between the fashion and cultural events reflects the spirit of supporting and uplifting the community.
Hanau Hou Arts and Fashion Show
Following the success of last year’s inaugural show, Hannah Preston-Pita and Raynn Dangaran are once again partnering to bring the second annual Hanau Hou Arts and Fashion Show to Hilo. This showcase aims to highlight the artistry of eight Hawaii-based designers.
The idea behind the show originated from Preston-Pita’s dream of showcasing her creative pieces while providing a platform for others to express themselves through wearable art. After securing a date that coincides with the Merrie Monarch Festival, the organizers began planning for a bigger and more dynamic show.
Among the featured designers in Hanau Hou this year are Laha‘ole Designs, Anela Wear, Te Manu Designs, Ho‘oilina, Waikini, Alohiwai, Hale Hala, and Nohie Hawaii. The runway will come alive with about 40 models, including children, men, and women, strutting down the Crown Room of the Grand Naniloa Hotel. Live performances, including taiko drums, singing, and hula, will entertain the audience between designer showcases.
By moving the show to the Grand Naniloa Hotel, the heart of the Merrie Monarch Festival, Preston-Pita and Dangaran aim to tap into the larger visitor base during the week. Attendees can expect a vibrant display of designs, delicious food and drinks, and a fun-filled atmosphere suitable for all ages.
With the Hanau Hou Arts and Fashion Show, Preston-Pita and Dangaran hope to establish an ongoing network of support that empowers designers throughout the year and celebrates Hawaiian culture.
Implications and Future Trends
These two fashion shows in Hilo, which coincide with the Merrie Monarch Festival, highlight the growing importance of the fashion industry in Hawaii. They serve as platforms for designers to showcase their talent and creativity, creating a fusion of fashion, art, and culture.
One key trend reflected in both shows is the emphasis on using natural and local materials. Designers incorporate elements from the land and sea, such as feathers, pearls, shells, and kukui nuts, into their wearable art. This not only adds a unique Hawaiian touch to the fashion pieces but also supports sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
Another significant trend is the collaboration between fashion events and cultural festivals. By aligning the Hawaii Fashion Showcase and the Hanau Hou Arts and Fashion Show with the Merrie Monarch Festival, the organizers showcase the interconnection between fashion and cultural heritage. This partnership not only elevates the fashion shows but also provides a platform for emerging artists and musicians.
Looking into the future, we can expect the fashion industry in Hawaii to continue to flourish and gain recognition on a global scale. With the support and success of events like the Hawaii Fashion Showcase and Hanau Hou Arts and Fashion Show, designers can expand their reach and appeal to a wider audience beyond the islands.
In terms of recommendations for the industry, fostering collaboration and supporting emerging talent is crucial. By continuing to merge fashion with cultural festivals, organizers can provide a platform for artists to showcase their work while preserving and celebrating local traditions. Additionally, initiatives promoting sustainability and the use of natural materials can help position Hawaii as a leader in eco-conscious fashion.
The future of Hawaiian fashion is bright, combining the richness of cultural heritage with the innovative designs of local talent. As these fashion shows demonstrate, Hawaii has much more to offer than just beautiful landscapes and pristine beaches. It is a place where fashion, art, and culture coexist harmoniously, creating a truly unique experience.
Keep up with the latest trends in Hawaiian fashion and immerse yourself in the vibrant artistry showcased at events like the Hawaii Fashion Showcase and Hanau Hou Arts and Fashion Show. Experience the fusion of creativity, culture, and style that makes Hawaii a fashion destination like no other.