The Shopping List No. 42: Spirit of Aloha
As the summer sun casts its warm glow, it’s time to channel the eternal allure of vintage Hawaiian dresses and prints…Whether you’re headed to a summer wedding, exotic destination or simply heading out to Trader Joes, a Hawaiian dress or playsuit is the answer! Vintage Hawaiian dresses are joyful and colorful, so they’re easy to style in the summer months when you don’t want to fuss with layers or simply pulling together an outfit. I love adding a belt or modern jewelry for a contemporary look, but I love a bold print moment on its own! I’ve never seen two dresses or prints that are alike, so if you get your hands on a vintage piece, then celebrate it!
When it comes to vintage Hawaiian dresses, several brands have become synonymous with the era’s vibrant prints and timeless designs. Keep an eye out for these brands at thrift stores and estate sales as I do see them pop up a lot! If you’re searching online, opt for dresses and playsuits from the 1950s-1970s.
Alfred Shaheen: Renowned for his exquisite designs, Alfred Shaheen was instrumental in popularizing the Hawaiian fashion scene in the 1940s and ’50s. His dresses often featured bold floral patterns and unique motifs, capturing the essence of the islands.
Malihini: This brand is known for its romantic and feminine designs, often incorporating delicate ruffles, flowing silhouettes, and eye-catching prints. Malihini dresses evoke a sense of carefree elegance, making them perfect for any summer occasion.
Kamehameha: Founded in the 1930s, Kamehameha is one of the oldest and most prestigious Hawaiian fashion labels. Their iconic designs feature traditional Hawaiian prints, vibrant colors, and meticulous attention to detail, offering an authentic vintage aesthetic.
Paradise Hawaii: Founded in the 1950s, Paradise Hawaii is revered for its stunning vintage dresses adorned with tropical prints and floral motifs. Their pieces often feature bold colors and elegant silhouettes, capturing the essence of Hawaiian beauty.
Princess Kaiulani Fashions: Princess Kaiulani Fashions, established in the 1960s, offers a wide range of vintage Hawaiian dresses with a focus on elegant and flattering cuts. Their designs often showcase intricate details, such as delicate pleating and unique neckline styles.
My curated finds:
- vtg 60’s 70’s Ui Maikai Hawaiian mod day glo poppies barkcloth maxi dress S, $80
- Royal Creations Vintage Hawaiian Muumuu/Tiki Dress Aloha Friday Tropical Floral, $70
- Vintage 1950s Kamehameha Dress, $459
- Vintage 70s Cotton Hawaiian Print Barkcloth Long Sundress by Deweese Designs S/M, $125
- vintage playsuit romper, Hawaiian, Tiki, Pin Up, Rockabilly, swimsuit, $40
- Vintage S Malia Pink White Floral Maxi 60s 70s EUC Hawaiian Summer, $154
- 1950s PARADISE HAWAII sarong strapless HALTER dress xs, $272
- Vintage 1970s Hawaiian Pink And Purple Patterned Halter Neck Sleeveless Maxi Day Dress, $87
- NANI Of HAWAII 1950’s 50s Black & Metallic Gold Cotton Border Print Hawaiian Aloha TEATIMER Tea Timer Tunic Dress Capris Pants Set Xs, $265
- 60’s DRESS VIBRANT FLOWER POWER TIKI AUSTIN POWERS MOCK NECK SEXY M, $77
- vtg MALIHINI Hawaii party dress 38/28/full pin up cottage fit & flair 60s 70s, $200
- Vintage 70s Alfred Shaheen Womens M Black/Gold Long Sleeve Hawaiian Maxi Dress, $89
- 1950s tropical Hawaiian blue convertible dress, $145
- Vintage 60’s Royal Hawaiian Tiki Floral Maxi Dress Size 10, $90
- Vintage 70’s Kamehameha Dress Women’s Floral Maxi Long Textured Hawaiian, $80
- Vintage 1970’s Floral Malia Honolulu Hawaiian Maxi Halter Neck Tiki Summer Dress, $125
- Vintage 1970s Alfred Shaheen Screen Printed Accordion Pleat Maxi Dress vtg 12, $88
- Vintage Ja-Na of Hawaii 1960s mod maxi dress, $210
- Vintage 60s Dayglo Green Watercolor Floral Paradise Hawaii Playsuit / Vintage Green Hawaiian Print Romper / Vintage Green Hawaiian Swimsuit, $123
As I’m typing this shopping list, I’m realizing I want to do a change up of some of the items I packed for Hawaii and go even more bold! We’re headed out tomorrow to visit family!
