Celebrating ʻāina (land) and moʻolelo (stories) of Hawaiʻi
keha
"Dignity, majestic, prominent..."
...a reminder that we shall always strive for excellence by looking toward the people, places and things greater than ourselves for purpose, guidance, and inspiration.
Keha Hawaiʻi offers fashion-forward apparel that blends classic with contemporary and celebrates the ʻāina (land), kānaka (people), ʻōlelo (language), and moʻolelo (stories) of Hawaiʻi.
Collection Aho Hilo Loa
Collection Aho Hilo Loa celebrates the multitude of ways twisted and braided material is used in Hawaiʻi: as lei; as cordage for regalia, tools, and fishing nets and lines; as lashing for hale (houses), waʻa (canoes), pahu hula (drums used in hula), kōkō (carrying nets to hold/hang calabashes), and much more. Some of these fundamental patterns can be found throughout the collection’s motifs and silhouettes.
This collection brings to mind “Kuʻu aho hilo loa,” which is one in a set of nane, or riddles, used to teach the moku (districts) of the island of Hawaiʻi. Mary Kawena Pukui translates this nane as “my long, twisted fishing line,” where “hilo,” meaning to twist or braid, is used as a pun to refer to the district of Hilo. As such, the collection's name, Aho Hilo Loa, inspired by the craft of Hawaiian riddling, not only magnifies various aho, or braided cords, but is also a nod to Hilo as the home of the Merrie Monarch Festival where this collection will be released. The watermark designs in the background depict geographical features that honor Hilo’s fertile soil, unique sands, charming coastlines, and rejuvenating waters.
ʻAʻohe lua e like ai me ka nani aʻo Hilo! None other can compare to the beauty of Hilo!
Kama Keiki Pant
The Kama Keiki Pant is our first ready-to-wear piece for both kaikamahine (girls) and keikikāne (boys) alike! Made for toddlers, the Kama Pant is complete with a comfy elastic waistband and wide legs for all-day play. Plus, your mini-me can now match you as you rock your own Pūlama piece!
Simple yet elegant, the Hiluhilu Dress is an asymmetrical jaw-dropper that features a tank and pocket on the right, and a bell sleeve on the left. She’s fashioned at a midi-to-maxi length, perfect for your fancy functions!
The Kilohana Cover Up comes in one size andis so versatile. Don her over a bikini, a top-and-bottom ensemble, or a chic solid-colored dress!
The name Kilohana honors the glorious peak of the same name nestled within the Koʻolau range, overlooking both Kalihi and Kāneʻohe simultaneously. Kilohana is said to have been home to Haumea--goddess of earth and fertility--and her husband Wākea.
One of the many definitions of "kilohana" refers to the outermost layer, as of kapa or lei. Said layer is typically the most beautiful and intricate.
