16 Jul “Then is Now” for Fashion at Whalers Village

There is no mistaking Hawaiian textiles and their bold and dramatic prints such as the bright, repeated patterns on cotton and silk that have been a staple to island fashion for nearly a hundred years.

In 1966 “aloha attire” became the official dress of Hawaii. Many of the designers that helped to launch the island lifestyle are still at the height of local fashion today with stores at Whalers Village.

Kahala‘s pedigree goes back to 1930’s Hawaii and the Waikiki beach boys. One of the longest running producers of aloha shirts in Hawaii, and now swim trunks, their partnerships with Hawaii artists and renowned surfboard shapers such as Dick Brewer have served up iconic designs that are subtle and tasteful. Working with people connected to the ocean has kept their fashions relevant to today’s customer.

Tori Richard is a family-run resort lifestyle brand that began with a women’s line in 1956. Perhaps best known for their fabric innovation and hand-painted prints from the 1970s, many of their retro and mod prints are being revived today in their “Tori Vintage” line of modern styling and colors. They are available in their stores along with the signature and proprietary “Cotton Lawn” fabric aloha shirts for men.

Modern island designers have also caught the attention of kama`aina (locals) and that of the top fashion magazines. Maggie Coulombe’s namesake flagship store is located at Whalers Village. Her made on Maui draped silks and strappy resort and beachwear are worn by Paris Hilton, Halle Berry, Teri Hatcher, to name a few. When not traveling the globe for inspiration and hosting her own trunk shows, Maggie can often be found in her boutique working with clients to personalize their wardrobe.

Many Whalers Village stores cater to a contemporary island lifestyle for the whole family, with Tommy Bahama, Blue Ginger and Cinnamon Girl sharing the laidback vibe associated with comfortable clothing, time spent near the ocean and entertaining outdoors. 

Dipping into the island lifestyle is joyful, and the fashion should be just as fun.

Visit Whalers Village stores here.