December 18, 2014

Letters to Santa make wishes come true

(From FrolicHawaii.com 12/18/2014) – Amanda Stevens

Macy’s and Make-A-Wish are celebrating the seventh year of the Believe campaign. Up to Dec. 24, people of all ages can bring their letters addressed to “Santa at The North Pole,” and drop it into the special letterboxes inside Macy’s. (You can also create and send a letter online at macys.com/believe.) For each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to Make-A-Wish, up to $1,000,000.

Damon’s Wish
“There’s no crying in Macy’s!” That thought rang through my mind last Friday, while being among hundreds of onlookers who saw Make-A-Wish and Macy’s grant the wish of a young man named Damon at Ala Moana Center, as part of the Believe campaign.

Damon is from Kaneohe, and he struggles daily with progressive muscular dystrophy, a medical condition that made him eligible for a wish from Make-A-Wish Hawaii. He wished for a beach-accessible wheelchair, one that “looked cool” in true teenager form, but mostly, he wanted the ability to roll across the sand with more ease, something he couldn’t do with his standard chair.

Damon’s wish that unfolded was among 50 wishes granted nationwide that day. A fun fact I learned from Jenna Blakely of Make-A-Wish Hawaii was that of those 50 wishes, 12 Wish Kids learned that their wishes to come to Hawaii are coming true. She also told me about recent wishes granted for other teens and children from Hawaii. Seriously, this is what the holidays are all about, take a look:

On Thanksgiving Day, Kailua teen Tiare, 16, battling chronic kidney disease, got to cheer on game day with the San Francisco 49ers Gold Rush Cheerleaders.

On Hawaii Island, Make-A-Wish Hawaii recently handed over the keys to teen Christian’s dream off-road Polaris vehicle. Christian, 17, battles a chronic kidney condition.

Sharai, 14, of Keaau, who’s battling Hodgkins Lymphoma, recently returned from her Wish Trip to Australia, where she got to do an Animal Encounter.

So this holiday season, slow down and take a moment to write a letter to Santa, your wish will help to make wishes come true.

November 29, 2014

Urban Outfitters launches in Waikiki

By: Amanda Stevens Nov 29, 2014

Hawaii’s first Urban Outfitters store, which officially launches today, held its grand opening Friday, giving media and invited guests an early peek at the stylish, two-story space at the corner of Kalakaua and Kaiulani avenues in Waikiki.

Part of the Hyatt Regency Waikiki’s Atrium Shops, the new 13,000-square-foot shop is inviting and easy to navigate, with mini boutiques throughout the space. In keeping with its industrial-meets-art-loft vibe, the popular women’s and men’s fashion brand — known for its irreverent, indie and hipster styles — has added music listening stations throughout the store.

During my personal tour Friday afternoon, I was drawn to the gypsy vibe of the swimwear and crystal accessories. The clothes fit our island lifestyle, yet UO is not afraid to offer interesting outerwear, which I found refreshing. I spotted Southwestern-style ponchos in the $60 price range; party dresses starting at $80; and I was tempted to splurge on a rattlesnake belt for about $100. There’s also an array of amethyst and crystal goods randomly placed throughout the store, which adds to the mysterious gypsy Southwestern vibe.

On the second floor, there’s a good amount of fun tees in the $30 range, along with mobile tech supplies and quirky books — perfect for Christmas gifts. The men’s selection is impressive with offerings of denim joggers under $100. There’s also an entire section with intimate wear that’s edgy and sexy, but doesn’t try too hard. Seriously, this store has everything.

Before you leave, take a look at the hanging art and mural by Pow!Wow! artist Kristin Farr.

Here are scenes from Friday’s launch party:

Party Pics: Urban Outfitters launch

—Photo by Amanda Stevens

A look at what’s on sale in Waikiki from this Philadelphia-based chain:

First Look: Urban Outfitters

—Photo by Amanda Stevens

Urban Outfitters
Hyatt Regency Waikiki’s Pualeilani Atrium & Shops
2424 Kalakaua Ave.
Parking structure located across the street from the lobby and valet.
Store hours: 9 a.m.-11:00 p.m.

November 26, 2014

Our new Miss HI Teen USA & Miss HI USA

(From FrolicHawaii.com 11/24/2014) – Amanda Stevens

Kitty Wo (mother of Emma), Emma Wo - 2015 Miss Hawaii USA, Kyla Hee - 2015 Miss Hawaii Teen USA, and Luana Alapa (former Miss Hawaii and mother Kyla)

Kitty Wo (Emma’s mother), Emma Wo – 2015 Miss Hawaii USA, Kyla Hee – 2015 Miss Hawaii Teen USA, and Luana Alapa (Kyla’s mother and former Miss Hawaii 1987)

Emma Wo was crowned the new Miss Hawaii USA, while Kyla Hee captured the Miss Hawaii Teen USA title on Sunday at the JW Marriott Ihilani Ko Olina Resort & Spa.

The 24-year-old Wo, a PR account executive and model, is the daughter of Kitty and Buzz Wo, (local business leaders and philanthropists). She also won the Miss Hawaii Teen USA 2008 pageant and will represent Hawaii at the next Miss USA pageant. She aspires to own her own PR and marketing firm specializing in fashion.

The 17-year-old Hee, who will represent Hawaii in the next Miss Teen USA pageant, is a student at Mid-Pacific Institute and would like to become an actress and entrepreneur. Her parents are Mark Hee, and Luana Alapa who won the Miss Hawaii crown in 1987.

We had a chance to chat with the new title holders:

Emma Wo during the swimsuit and evening gown competitions.

Emma Wo during the swimsuit and evening gown competition at the JW Marriott Ihilani Ko Olina Resort & Spa. Photos courtesy of Dale Mills.

When did you know you wanted to compete for this pageant?
Wo: When I was Miss Hawaii Teen USA in 2008 I knew back then that I wanted to do what I could to give back to the community, and one way to reach even more people is to become Miss Hawaii USA someday.

Hee: Up until recently, I didn’t think this was for me. My confidence wasn’t there, and it could have been because of my dyslexia; I thought I wasn’t good enough. But prepping for this has given me newfound confidence, and I feel like I am really becoming the person that I was meant to be.

Kyla Hee during the swimsuit and evening gown competitions. Photos courtesy of Dale Mills.

Besides winning the title, what has been the best part of your experience?
Wo: It has been my family, no doubt. I couldn’t have done this without them. They’ve been there for me through everything, from the time I competed for this title two years ago, they’ve helped me emotionally, financially and mentally. I’ve also enjoyed growing with the other contestants and have made many new friends.

Hee: My family. I couldn’t have done this without them. They have calmed me down when I needed their strength. They’ve supported me and helped me to be more confident and to believe in myself. I also loved that two of the other contestants were my friends from middle school. It was great to spend time with them, and make new friends.

A little about the 2014 title holders…

The outgoing Miss Hawaii USA Moana Hara is no stranger to competition, prior to winning the 2014 title, she was Hawaii’s Most Outstanding Teen in 2007. Since then she has gone on to model locally and internationally. She continues her community service raising awareness about dyslexia.

The outgoing Miss Hawaii Teen USA Mariah Gosling is an avid runner and a former high school valedictorian who aspires to be an orthopedic surgeon. She will continue her studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

November 9, 2014

HONOLULU Fashion Week: Hawaiian Air and MAMO on the runway

HONOLULU Fashion Week: Hawaiian Air and MAMO on the runway

BY: AMANDA STEVENS NOV 9, 2014

A standing room only crowd had a chance to enjoy a unique showcase of flight attendant uniforms through the decades as Hawaiian Airlines served as the presenting host of the MAMO (Maoli Arts Month) fashion show during HONOLULU Fashion Week.

The second part of the runway show featured Native Hawaiian artists and designers presenting traditional designs, contemporary designs and traditional cultural practices such as Hawaiian tattoo. Featured designers include Kaponoʻai Molitau, Puamana Crabbe, Keone Nunes, Wahine Toa Designs, Lufi Luteru, Keoua Nelsen, Mele Kahalepuna Chun, Kawika Lum, Kēhaulani Nielsen, Marques Marzan and Jonathan Freitas. You might remember seeing our coverage of the MAMO runway show in May, but take a look at the gallery, there are a good amount of new designs.

MAMO Art Show

November 3, 2014

Hawaii Fashion Month 2014 launch

(From FrolicHawai.com 11/1/2014) – Amanda Stevens

Photo by Travis Okimoto

Coming off a successful first year, Hawaii Fashion Month co-founders Melissa White and Toby Portner recently announced at a press conference the month-long activities that aim to cultivate, elevate, celebrate and promote Hawaii’s fashion industry. Fashion heavy hitters, including “Project Runway” Season 13 phenom Kini Zamora, converged at The Modern Honolulu along with Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who proclaimed November as Hawaii Fashion Month.

Portner and White made it clear that last year’s month-long event was a success because it was community driven. This year, the focus will be on elevating Hawaii fashion and taking the industry to the next level. One way is through mentoring workshops that provide hands-on professional development opportunities. Hawaii Fashion Exchange (HFX) mentors are fashion professionals with international experience and ties to Hawaii. Their range of talent is pretty vast. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect: Mark Arbeit, a fashion photographer who’s shot for Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar; Louda Larrain is a couture, art and textile designer; Bliss Lau, a jewelry designer teaches at Parson’s School of Design; and Roman Young specializes in model talent and scouting from Wilhelmina New York.

There is an eclectic range of event offerings this year, as part of Hawaii Fashion Month. They include:

Nov. 1: Fashion ForWARD – the opening event takes place at the IBM Building and coincides with the opening of the HFX photography exhibition at Ward Village throughout the month of November.

Nov. 1: Grey Goose Social Club at The Modern Honolulu.

Nov. 2: “Your Dapper” menswear launch party at Aston Waikiki Beach Coconut Club.

Nov. 2, 3: Roque Cozzette bridal and beauty make-up techniques at the Hifi Coop.

Nov. 6-9: Honolulu Fashion Week presented by Honolulu Magazine will assemble a creative team of industry experts to produce the event week to include fashion show producer/director (and HFX mentor) Lynne O’Neill and wardrobe stylist Don Sumada.

Nov. 6: Honolulu Fashion Week VIP Preview Night – “Live Aloha” runway show.

Nov. 7: Honolulu Fashion Week Neiman Marcus runway show.

Nov. 8: Honolulu Fashion Week “Active” runway show, and Hawaiian Airlines presents Maoli Arts Month Wearable Art Show

Nov. 9: Hifi Connects at Honolulu Fashion Week – Industry panel and networking presentations. Honolulu Fashion Week closing events.

Nov. 15: Kailua designer showcase with Hannalei Taylor at Global Village.

Nov. 20: Indie Visual List presents Iconica – Fiber Hawaii Meets Fashion at the Honolulu Museum of Art School.

Nov. 22: Waikiki Roots and Royal Style fashion show and reception at The Grove at Royal Hawaiian Center. The event will honor the achievements of Hawaii fashion designers, stylists and business owners at Royal Hawaiian Center. Ensembles styled from locally owned businesses from the center. The event will begin with a special kick-off, followed by a runway show and VIP reception.

Nov. 22: Our Night Out – Kona at the Brewery Block at Kona Brewing Company in Kailua, Kona.

Nov. 28: Fishcake presents Fishmarket – features a designer marketplace and fashion show curated and produced by Reise Kochi at the Fishcake gallery.

Nov. 29: Art+Flea present Outfit at Ward Village – this event features local designers and artisans, perfectly timed for Small Business Saturday.

Follow Frolic Hawaii and I’ll take you behind-the-scenes getting you the latest scoops about Hawaii Fashion Month.

November 1, 2014

Confessions of a ‘Walking Dead’ addict fashionista

(From FrolicHawaii.com 10/31/2014) – Amanda Stevens

You don’t have to be a fan of horror, Halloween, or even be a guy to be obsessed with AMC’s cult post-apocalyptic television series, “The Walking Dead.” But before I obsess, here’s a little background: the television series, developed by Frank Darabont, is based on the comic book series of the same name by Robert Kirkman. So, okay I admit it, I came late to the party. Unlike some of my die-hard friends, I wasn’t glued to the TV every Sunday night since it premiered exactly four years ago on October 31, 2010.

But this summer I thought I’d give it a try on Netflix, and after two episodes, I became a full-blown Walking Deadhead. I literally finished off four seasons in less than one month. Now, I too am stuck to the TV on Sunday nights waiting to see what’s next.

So my favorite character has to be Michonne, played by Danai Gurira. The character is dark, twisty, carries a katana and seriously kicks Zombie butt. I’m so obsessed with her character that I outfitted the Goodwill Kaimuki windows (I volunteer to do visuals once a month) with a creepy theme that only “Walking Dead” fans would recognize.

Here are the top five reasons why women love “The Walking Dead.”

1) For the most part, women are not victims or reduced to being the moral compass of the show. They are tough, complicated, smart, and yup, sometimes fully irritating, but the characters are so rich and realistic.

2) The lack of sexual violence against women. Unlike other popular dramas, WD has been good about steering clear from this kind of graphic violence. There’s been story lines that alluded to it, but it hasn’t really gone there.

3) It can be very romantic – post-apocalyptic love can be a beautiful thing. The romance between Glenn and Maggie adds the perfect amount of humanity and hope for the series.

4) Man eye-candy – seriously, sorry but not sorry. Officer Rick Grimes and anti-hero Darryl Dixon have legions of female fans who would literally riot if they got killed off.

5) The writing is tight, consistent and smart. Women love a good mystery and a great story line. This show is definitely not just about zombies; in fact, the humans are a lot more dangerous.

If you haven’t already been “infected,” I dare you to watch just two episodes. You’ll see.

October 30, 2014

‘Project Runway’ and beyond for Kini Zamora

By: Amanda Stevens Oct. 30, 2014

“I want to make clothes that people will wear, not styles that will make a big splash on the runway.” This quote by the late iconic designer, Oscar de la Renta, certainly sums up the “Project Runway” season 13 finale. Let me just say, the judges preferred high-art and a big splash this season.

Last week’s final episode began with the aftermath of the harsh, but frankly, accurate critique from the judges. Hawaii’s Kini Zamora literally had less than a day to redo and restyle his entire collection.

To recap the runway show, the collections were true to each designer. Charketa Glover’s collection was vibrant and sexy, but not very cohesive. I loved her tribal two piece look. She was the first to be eliminated.

Next to be sent home was Zamora. The judges praised his neoprene off-shoulder top and leather shorts and noted that he was a gifted technician. But Zac Posen said that he needed to “hone his editors eye.”

After Zamora was eliminated, he went backstage to greet his family, and his aunt hugged him while saying an oli (prayer) for him in Hawaiian. It was a true chicken-skin moment that the world got to see. Message boards went crazy for that spontaneous exchange.

And then there were two, Amanda Valentine’s styling was spot-on, I loved the jewelry that she designed; it definitely did make her collection look more luxe. Sean Kelly really did bring it, but he went against Nina Garcia’s advice and there was fringe everywhere.

Guest judge Emmy Rossum broke it down: “Do you want the person to win who can build a brand like DVF or Donna Karan? Because that’s what Amanda feels like to me. An American woman who’s designing for the American woman. Or do you wanna pick high art, someone that’s combining menswear and womenswear and doing something different?”

The judges chose fringe and high-art and Kelly was named the winner.

I asked Zamora at last week’s viewing party at The Republik what the most memorable part of the whole experience was for him, and what’s next for him. Here’s his response: “I am so appreciative of this whole experience and watching it again with everyone here is so amazing. My favorite part of it all is that through my designs, I got to connect with so many people around the world. I have fans in Japan that reach out daily, and the fans I have from the mainland are just as loyal and passionate as my fans from Hawaii. I still have so much more to share. I’m working on a few projects, the most recent is the launch of our Spring/Summer 2015 collection coming up during Hawaii Fashion Month.”

Zamora’s mother, Valerie, shared her highlight of the season: “When we were in New York, people kept coming up to me and saying, ‘We love Kini; we love his designs and we love his heart.’”

October 22, 2014

Coming up: ‘Project Runway’ recap and finale

(From FrolicHawaii.com 10/22/2014) – Amanda Stevens

With the “Project Runway” season finale happening tomorrow, Thursday, Oct, 23, it looks to be a close race between the top four designers. Yes, I have been able to interview Hawaii’s Kini Zamora after the challenges, but I really have no clue as to who took home the prize. The last two episodes of season 13 were intense, and it was clear that no one is safe. In preparation for the big finale, here’s a short recap and my prediction:

Who’s In and Who’s Out (episode 12)

The challenge was to create a street-chic look inspired by New York City, and a new look from a losing challenge. The judges loved Zamora’s red, one-shoulder dress (described as “extraordinary”) that he repurposed from Mitchell Perry’s losing design. In the workroom, mentor Tim Gunn told Zamora to ramp up his denim skirt. It proved to be bad advice; the judges weren’t impressed with the ruffles and said, “less is more,” but they loved the trench coat.

There was no winner in that episode, but Zamora, Sean Kelly, Char Glover and Amanda Valentine moved on to show at New York Fashion Week.

Finale Part 1 (episode 13)

The designers went to Rome on an inspiration tour to create their final collection. Gunn served as their guide, and it was great to see the friendly rapport between the designers as they toured Italian monuments and sipped wine.

All fun aside, after returning home, each designer had five weeks to complete their 10-look collection. Gunn visited each designer in their hometown. Needless to say, the Hawaii visit was the most entertaining. In true local fashion, Zamora’s family and friends threw a heartfelt authentic luau and even gave him a short hula lesson.

While in his garage/design space, Zamora confessed that upon his return, he had a bit of designer’s block. Gunn was encouraging and loved his beginning pieces. Fast forward to the judges’ reaction of a sneak preview of three looks. Zamora seemed to have the harshest criticism and was asked to basically do-over his collection. If anyone can pull out a new chic collection with little time, it’s him. Take a look at the montage of looks above from Zamora’s original collection. Stay tuned to see how he revamps it all. I can’t wait!

Project Runway Finale & Viewing Party

After watching last week’s episode, my call is that Zamora throws a hail Mary pass and hits a home run – how’s that for sports reference cliches? But seriously, knowing his body of work, it is very possible. I must say that Valentine’s accessories might make her a tough contender and when Kelly gets it right, he can be a champion. We’ll see tomorrow night.

Viewing party details (Zamora will be there):

The Safehouse
1349 Kapiolani Blvd., 3rd floor
Thursday, Oct. 23 starting at 5 p.m.,
All-ages with adult until “Project Runway” ends at 8 p.m., then becomes a 21+ event for Acoustic Nights
No cover

October 10, 2014

Hawaii Opera Theatre’s ‘Madame Butterfly’

BY: AMANDA STEVENS OCT 10, 2014

Passion, unrequited love and deceit – elements found in Giacomo Puccini’s beloved and iconic “Madam Butterfly.” This play, which serves as the opener for the Hawaii Opera Theatre (HOT) season, begins today and continues on Oct. 12, and 14.

HOT artistic director Henry Akina directs the play with his signature heart, humor and unique nuances. For those who haven’t seen a production of “Madame Butterfly,” it’s set in the mid-19th century, but the story line is timeless. Cio-Cio-San, Japanese for “butterfly,” is played by Lina Tetriani. She has a romance with American Naval officer Pinkerton (played by Eric Margiore), who seems too good to be true. This play inspired love stories popular in today’s culture; most notably, the Broadway musical “Miss Saigon.” Another main character is Anne Namba’s costume design — kimono couture that bridges the essence of vintage Japanese fashion with contemporary flair.

We had a chance to see a private viewing of the play. Here’s a look:

HOT’s 2014 production of Madame Butterfly

–Photos by Amanda Stevens –

To learn more about this production and the rest of the 2014-2015 opera season, download the brochure: 2014-2015 HOT Opera Season.

October 7, 2014

Love a good scare? Visit House of Horrors

Love a good scare? Visit House of Horrors

BY: AMANDA STEVENS OCT 7, 2014

The eerie beauty of Dr. Carnage’s House of Horrors is in the details and the sensory overload. After taking a year break to study attractions around the country, the Scream Team is back in a big way, partnering with Windward Mall this month on an attraction that runs through Halloween.

“This is the largest haunted house attraction in Hawaii, and we brought in huge special effects to take it to the next level,” organizer Doug Farrar says. “You couldn’t find a better setting; we’re literally next to the grave yard in the theater parking.”

Okay, let me start by saying, I love a good scare. I read Stephen King’s “The Shining” in fourth grade, and it seriously takes a lot to spook me. When I entered the first room of House of Horrors — the creepy living room — it brought me back to little Carol Anne from “Poltergeist.” If you can stand to stay in the rooms for more than a few seconds, you’ll see the level of detail and twisted imagination behind each attraction. You can literally feel the earth move beneath your feet in the Tunnel of Doom. Don’t freak, but I think I captured a weird anomaly in the photo I took in the Claustrophobia Room (see for yourself).

This action-packed attraction stays true to the fictional story, written by Dick Terhune, about one man’s transformation from a mild-mannered doctor to an obsessed nightmare creator who commits unspeakable atrocities. Without giving too much away, there is a reason why organizers have a few white “chicken escape doors” for those who may freak-out and need to leave. As the time goes on, it gets really intense. I literally felt my heart beating loudly in my chest in sync with the cacophony of screams behind me, and in front of me.

Warning, it’s too intense for anyone under 13 years old, there’s blood, body parts, animal carcasses and a good amount of heart pounding, unexpected moments.

Open dates for Dr. Carnage’s House of Horrors are Oct. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31, and on Nov. 1, they offer a blackout walk through with no lights and attendees walk through with glow sticks. The hours of operation are 7 p.m. with closing times varying from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dr. Carnage’s House of Horrors is located is in the theater parking.
Tickets are $15 or $22 for a fast pass. For tickets and additional information. visit www.scream808.com.