Given the opportunity to be a guest at Waikiki’s newest dinner/cocktail show, Return to Waikiki, starring the musical stylings of Makana; CLOTH  enjoyed an evening under the luminous Honolulu night sky. Return to Waikiki melds the history of Hawaiian music while bringing back  an air of true nostalgia to the land that once was occupied by King David Kalakaua’s summer home.

From slack key guitar to the rhythmic percussion of  Latin infused beats, the show takes you on a journey through the various influences on Hawaiian music throughout the years with an ensemble band where each individual brings their own flair to the stage in perfect harmony.

Return to Waikiki Staff Wardrobe

Moreover, it was the influence of vintage Hawaiian fashion that caught CLOTH’s eye. Outfitted in 3/4 sleeve pullover shirts, the male wait staff embodied what made the aloha shirt of the 1950’s to 1960’s distinguished yet relaxed. No one better represents this era in Hawaii fashion than Iolani Sportswear. Founded in 1953, vintage Iolani shirts today are highly sought after for their subtle yet authentic polynesian details.

In the early 1960’s, men’s designer Jackson Morisawa joined the IOLANI ‘ohana. A trained graphic designer, Jackson applied fine stitch work, lace, flocking and embroidery to solid bodies. These details became recognizable trademarks for IOLANI. Each style of shirt was given a name, such as the Hapa Jac, the Beau Tiki, the Don Ho, the Wedding shirt and the Executive. The IOLANI shirt soon became the shirt of choice for dignitaries and movie stars.

vintage Iolani menswear