Hawai'i Fashion Month ~ Governor's Fashion Awards

Hawaii Fashion Month culminated with the prestigious Governor’s Fashion Awards at The Modern Honolulu on October 30, 2013.Runway Show Production.Headlining the black-tie affair was Governor Neil Abercrombie, DBEDT Director Richard Lim, along with the movers, shakers and fashionistas of Hawaii’s fashion industry, to honor the past, present and future of the industry. The event also recognized Pua Rochelin of Surf Line with the Lifetime Achievement Award and celebrated major local fashion milestones including Hilo Hattie’s 50th anniversary and ‘Iolani Sportswear’s year of business.

Ralph Malani created and directed a runway show that visually narrated the history of Hawaiian fashion. This show was a key element of the event, providing attendees with a tangible experience of the industry's development.  The show specifically highlighted the transition from the iconic colorful tropical prints and designs of the 1950s to the contemporary, globally influenced styles of modern Hawaiian designers.

In essence, Ralph Malani's runway show acted as a visual timeline, connecting the past and present of Hawaiian fashion in the islands.

The audience enjoyed the musical performances by Mahi Crabbe and Aiden James,
Dale Hope, emcee and author of The Aloha Shirt, highlighted the month's success in fostering collaboration and driving the industry towards its goal of becoming a billion-dollar sector.

Press Release:  https://invest.hawaii.gov/governors-fashion-award-winners-announced/