kealopiko

. . . moi tee . . .

good island design combined with the socially conscious choice to use sweatshop-free, made in the usa tees will always get my attention. add the kokua factor (i.e. contributing a bit of profit to community organizations) and you know why i have been keeping tabs on kealopiko over the past few months while patiently waiting for their online shop to open its virtual doors.

and although the shop is not yet open for business, a few photos of the line's native flora & fauna inspired tees have finally been posted to give those of us away from the islands a sneak peek of what to expect.

the talented minds behind kealopiko are a team of wahine who have a deep connection to the 'aina via their work as botanists (ane & hina) and preserving the he'eia fishpond (jamie). tees from kealopiko are a wonderful way to remain true to your island roots without sacrificing style and since each design is hand screened you know a little mana of the maker will always be with you.

kealopiko will be at the merrie monarch festival arts & crafts fair this week, the kokua festival next weekend, mamo (maoli arts month) in may, and you can always find them at first fridays in chinatown. check out their event calendar for more info.