Before we get into the collection

If you’re reading this in Hawaiʻi, you already know: it’s been hard to show up like it’s business as usual. The Kona Low storms have impacted so many families, and the weight of it is real—damage, cleanup, and the stress of figuring out what comes next. 

We’ve been planning our Merrie Monarch releases for months, and we’re still excited to share what we’ve been working on. But we also want to show up in a way that feels pono—grounded in community, and mindful of what people are carrying right now.

Why pakalana?

Pakalana isn’t native to Hawaiʻi, but it’s deeply loved here—especially in lei. It’s one of those fragrances that instantly brings you back: birthdays, graduations, baby lūʻau, first days, last days, and all the “just because” moments in between. And if you’ve ever been handed a lei, you know the feeling—your shoulders soften, you smile without thinking, and for a second you feel seen.

That’s what we wanted to capture with Pakalana Strands: a collection that feels like celebration, but still works for everyday life.

What’s in the Pakalana Strands collection

Pakalana Strands was designed for keiki and ʻohana who want pieces that are comfortable, practical, and meaningful. 

Here’s what you’ll find in this release:

• Kapa Moe swaddles in pink, purple, and blue
• Soft bamboo clothing made for warm days and easy movement
• Canvas zipper tote bags in pink and blue (with an interior zipper pocket—because we’re not digging for keys) 

Everything is thoughtfully designed to be worn, used, washed, and loved—over and over again.

Made for Merrie week… and the weeks after

We created this collection with Merrie Monarch season in mind—days that are full and beautiful and busy. But we also made it for the everyday moments that matter just as much:

• school drop-offs
• errands and beach days
• family photos
• birthday parties
• visiting kūpuna
• packing for a trip (or just packing snacks) 

Because the moments we remember most are usually the simple ones—being together, showing up for each other, and celebrating in the ways we can.

Giveback for this release

Online purchases continue to support Ulu Aʻe Learning Center as usual. And for our Merrie releases—starting with Pakalana Strands—we’re also donating to Aloha Diaper Bank, who has been supporting families impacted by the storms and helping keiki across Hawaiʻi year-round.

When it’s available

We saved a limited amount of Pakalana Strands for online, because we know not everyone can make it to Hilo.

• Limited online release: Monday, March 23 at 8am HST
• One Merrie Market (Hilo): April 9–11 (Sangha Hall)

Mahalo for being here If you’re in the middle of storm recovery, we’re holding space for you. If you’re supporting someone who is, mahalo for showing up. And if you’re able to shop this release, thank you. Your support helps us keep making thoughtfully designed pieces for keiki and ʻohana—and it helps us give back to our community in a tangible way. 

See you soon, Hilo.

Shop Pakalana Strands March 23 at 8am HST