Tagged: Andy South

The Legacy of Alfred Shaheen

By Amanda Stevens from www.nonstophonolulu.com (Photos by Lyle Amine)

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It was like going back in time, witnessing the epitome of East-meets-West fashion originating from Hawaii. The HI Fashion – Legacy of Alfred Shaheen event on Saturday at Bishop Museum highlighted the work of this innovative, ground-breaking aloha wear designer.

Alfred Shaheen, pioneer of the textile and fashion industry in Hawai‘i, 1955. Photo courtesy of Camille Shaheen

Alfred Shaheen, pioneer of the textile and fashion industry in Hawai‘i, 1955. Photo courtesy of Camille Shaheen

The fashion show paid tribute to Shaheen, the pioneer of aloha wear. A special collection from Reyn Spooner introducing reinterpretations of the original textile designs developed in the 1950s and 1960s opened the show. The second line of the show featured some of Shaheen’s timeless aloha shirts with high-quality fabrics and distinct textile prints. The third line featured some of Shaheen’s exquisite dresses highlighting the classic feminine silhouette. The finale showcased Hawaii’s own Andy South, who unveiled a capsule collection inspired by Shaheen.

“I was truly inspired by the story of Shaheen, his culturally authentic aesthetic and his dedication to doing everything in Hawaii,” South said. “In putting together this collection, I tried to think like one of his designers — channeling his aesthetic sensibilities into the world of today.”

The regal Beverly Noa, Shaheen’s signature model was at the event and performed a beautiful hula before the fashion show.

Beverly Noa - Alfred Shaheen's former muse and model

Beverly Noa – Alfred Shaheen’s former muse and model

The exhibit runs through Feb. 4, 2013. For more information, call 808-847-3511 or visit bishopmuseum.org

The Substance and Style of Andy South

There was a private blessing and intimate ceremony commemorating the opening of Andy South’s Atelier and business headquarters on September 15, 2012. The invitation was extended to industry professionals to view the workspace at 12 S. King St.

The courtyard on the groud floor includes a mini fountain, sitting nooks and trees – all in the middle of China town in Honolulu.  The atelier upstairs is breathtaking – with the exposed red brick, prestine wood floors, subtle Asian accents and vintage sewing machines, it’s San Francisco meets New York in a big way. How fitting that this special day also served as an impromptu birthday celebration for Andy South.

Andy’s heart lead her back to Hawaii when she could have easily chosen to work anywhere in the world after Project Runway fame and after South by Andy South collections were sold at Neiman Marcus.  But Andy chooses to build upon her roots in Hawaii.  She mentors her interns, stays true to her asthetic, designs and manufactors her clothing in Hawaii and provides jobs for people in Hawaii.  Keep an eye on Andy’s progress as the Atelier continues to produce fantastic Made in Hawaii quality fashions.

Visits to the Andy South Atelier are by appointment only. Call (808) 744-1167 or visit info@AndySouth.com. To shop online go to shop.AndySouth.com.