This Nā Lau Ulu Aloha Shirt features our Lāʻie print on Limestone material with Moss and Snow ink. 

Lā'ie

Climbing towards the sunlight, the ʻieʻie vines will often partner with ʻōhiʻa trees.  The symbiotic relationship between the two of them in the forest is a beautiful sight!  We are privy to their long-lasting connection especially with deeply grooved timbers used in local architecture, fortifying the forest in our homes.

Held in the highest esteem, ʻieʻie is a treasured vine in the native forest.  When in bloom, the flower is compared to royalty in its lofty presence.  Its roots are manufactured into baskets, helmets, and fish traps.  Cherished kiʻi have been made from the aerial roots. 

ʻIeʻie is one of the hula plants allowed on a Kuahu Hula along with palapalai, koa, kukui, maile, and other select forest plants.  Lāʻie is a contracted form of lau-ʻieʻie.  

The site of the Mormon Temple and Brigham Young University is situated in the town, Lāʻie, on the North Shore of Oʻahu.

NĀ LAU ULU 2025

Our newest collection was inspired by a recent visit to the Waiākea Forest Reserve.  Towering koa trees, blooming ʻōhiʻa, and climbing ʻieʻie refreshed our spirits and we recall the teachings.  A healthy native forest is a reflection of a supportive community:  nurturing, nourishing, and sustaining each other.

We singled out kinolau plants that we place on the kuahu, the hula altar, for this offering.  Their role in the forest reminds us of the kuleana at hand.  Each of the plants have a function in and out of the forest.  As pillars of the forest, they safeguard growth, gather water from the atmosphere, and provide materials for traditional craft.  

Actively maintaining a relationship with the forest and protecting it will insure that our children and grandchildren too, will have the forest within reach.

Woven to specifications by Oji Fiber of Tokyo, their OJO+ natural yarn is an organic environmentally friendly product. With the attention to detail and the refinement of the silhouette, each shirt exudes coolness, offering a refreshing appearance.  Working with Kamakura Shirts, with their meticulous handcrafting of shirts, we share the legacy in making our Nā Lau Ulu shirts a special offering.