This Button Up Aloha Shirt features our Hekili Keʻekeʻe print on Dill material with Limestone ink. 

Hekili Keʻekeʻe

Upon Hiʻiaka’s return from Kauaʻi with Lohiʻauipo, she faces her sister’s jealousy and rage. Kīlauea is under siege as an explosive and land-changing eruption takes place. Hulihia Kīlauea is chanted by Hiʻiakaikapoliopele, describing the elemental storm and ravages of the land.

The approach to this ‘ohe kāpala design began with the chant. Reciting it over and over became the inspiration for the graphics and its repetitive format. The balance of the positive and negative spaces within the design are similar to the action with Pele and Hiʻiaka.

The layout of this design was inspired by the choreography of the hula. The vertical movements within the horizontal lines of dances are echoed in the format. The ‘ohe kāpala was cut by Sig and after the import of this artwork into our computers, Kūhaʻo then arranged this final composition.

Inspired by the ivy-league shirts of the early 1900s, the fabric designs are pure Hawai‘i, and the look is pleasingly fresh. The Button Up is an open front, tapered shirt with a full length placket. Coconut buttons are featured on the stand-up, button-down collar and on the front placket. Tuck it in or leave it out over the trousers for a more casual look. Either way, it's the perfect touch of crisp aloha!