HIT UP THESE SIX LOCAL STORES FOR THE HOLIDAYS
BY: MARIA KANAI
Holiday shopping is far from ho-ho-ho hum when you’re visiting the island of O’ahu. Some of the best boutiques in Hawai’i are located here, and you’ll feel great knowing you’re shopping local and supporting small businesses. Here are our must-visit shops where we promise you’ll find something for everyone on your list: significant others, parents, kids, friends and of course, don’t forget something for yourself!
It’s official – aloha shirts are, and have always been, a fashion staple in our closet. And, while you might be familiar with old-school, luxurious style of well-known brands like Tommy Bahama or Tori Richards, we have a soft spot for the oh-so retro, fun vibes found at Roberta Oaks. This local boutique in downtown Honolulu combines colorful, fun prints with a modern, closely fitted silhouette.
♥Perfect for: Your cool hubby looking for his next hip statement wardrobe piece♥
While you’re in downtown, peek into Barrio Vintage on Nuuanu. Specializing in eclectic apparel, bold patterns and retro style, this thrift store is owned by the very cool duo Bradley Rhea and Jonathan Saupe. Everything is original vintage, hailing back to the 1970s or prior which is why you’ll find some reaaaally crazy colors and prints. You’ll have as much fun shopping as you will trying on old-school, one-of-a-kind clothes.
♥ Perfect for: Your dad who might appreciate a throwback♥
Part store, part community space and all awesome. Na Mea Hawaii is located in the growing neighborhood of Ward and holds everything from handmade lauhala ornaments, original prints, books about Hawaii, clothing, Niihau shells and more. You won’t find anything kitschy or inauthentic here – it might feel eclectic, but the store is dedicated to genuinely promoting and respecting Hawaiian culture.
♥ Perfect for: That aunty you’re not a hundred-percent sure what to get, but you’ll find something here for sure♥
Let’s face it – opening presents on Christmas morning is the closest you’ll feel like a kid again. That is, until you take a look at Amy Wong’s boutique in Ward Village Shops. Big Bad Wolf might be known for its wild, sassy prints for out-of-the-box keiki, but there’s also fun stuff for adults: toys, coloring books and adult apparel for the young at heart.
♥Perfect for: Your unapologetically cool galpal who just became a new mom♥
We’re in love with Sheri Kira’s collection of pretty things, like the adorable Hawaii-themed keiki apparel and the fashionable, yet comfortable array of rompers, dresses and tops. But it’s the jewelry selection that really shines at Kira Hawaii. Delicate rings, subtly bright necklaces and sparkly statement earrings – all currently available at two locations in Mililani and Kakaako.
♥Perfect for: Your wife/girlfriend who’s always on the lookout for adding to her go-to jewelry collection.♥
One of the most well-known boutiques in Hawaii, Fighting Eel and its sister brand Ava Sky are beloved by local fashionistas on the island and has four different locations in downtown Honolulu, Kahala, Waikiki and Kailua. Part of the fun is waiting to see what new prints are going to hit the racks and it seems like most ideas take the form of bold, floral and tropical prints. Think dresses with swing and flow, breezy jumpsuits, off-the-shoulder tops and comfy cardigans. In addition to clothes, there’s plenty of made-in-Hawaii jewelry, clutches, hats and more.
♥Perfect for: Your mom, yourself, your friend – honestly, we love Fighting Eel because the clothes are so flattering.♥