Introducing the ʻUlu Kapa Kuiki Collection: A New Chapter in Sust'ĀINAbility and Storytelling

At Henōhea, we believe that every piece of clothing tells a story. It’s more than fabric, colors, and patterns, it’s about honoring our history, embracing resilience, and looking forward to a future built on sustainability and care for the ʻāina. The ʻUlu Kapa Kuiki Collection is our next step in that journey, a collection that not only celebrates the beauty of Lahaina but also reflects our deeper commitment to the planet and its people.

In the wake of the devastating Lahaina fire on August 8th, 2023, we found ourselves confronting loss in ways we never imagined. Our home, business, and community were engulfed by the flames, but what survived was a new sense of responsibility, a desire to rebuild with greater intention. For us, this meant rethinking the way we approach everything we do, from the materials we use to the stories we share. We knew that ʻāina had always been at the heart of Henōhea, but in the aftermath of the fire, it became clear that we had to go further in protecting and preserving what we hold dear.

The ʻUlu Kapa Kuiki Collection is our way of walking the talk. It is one of the first collections to feature Tencel, a sustainably sourced material that represents our dedication to both the environment and our community. Tencel is a biodegradable fabric made from sustainably harvested wood pulp, produced in a closed loop system that minimizes water and energy use. Unlike traditional fabrics like polyester or rayon, Tencel doesn’t shed microplastics into the environment, making it a safer choice for both the planet and our bodies.

We’re proud to use Tencel in this collection because it aligns with our belief that we must care for our ʻāina and, just as importantly, care for ourselves. The fabric is light and breathable, with a smooth feel that’s gentle against the skin, making it an ideal choice for creating timeless, classic designs that will last for years to come.

Choosing to work with this higher quality fabric wasn’t an easy decision. It costs more to produce than synthetic fabrics, but we didn’t want to cut corners. This collection marks the beginning of a new chapter for us, a chapter where every decision reflects our commitment to sust'ĀINAbility. The shift to Tencel is just one part of a broader movement to do better with each design we release, ensuring that we’re always striving to reduce our impact on the environment while honoring the ʻāina that has supported us for generations.

The name ʻUlu Kapa Kuiki is deeply connected to the land and our mission. To understand the full significance of this name, we must look back to Lahaina’s roots and its original name, Ka Malu ʻUlu O Lele, which translates to “The Shade of the Ulu Tree.”

Lahaina was once covered in an abundance of ʻulu trees (breadfruit trees), so much so that their thick shade was so extensive that you had to go to the ocean to find sunlight. The area was lush and green, with an ecosystem thriving under the protection of these trees. The name Ka Malu ʻUlu O Lele reflects the deep connection between the land, the people, and the abundance that the ʻulu tree provided. It was a place where life flourished in harmony with nature.

However, the arrival of the plantation era dramatically altered this landscape. As plantations took root, much of the ʻulu trees were cleared to make way for sugarcane fields and other crops. The once thriving, shaded paradise of Lahaina gave way to industrialization and development, which changed the town’s environmental and cultural landscape forever. Today, the legacy of Ka Malu ʻUlu O Lele remains in the stories passed down by our ancestors, our kūpuna, and in the collective memory of the land.

Our ʻUlu Kapa Kuiki Collection is a tribute to this history. It’s an homage to Lahaina’s roots and the ʻulu tree’s legacy of protection and abundance. The design captures this spirit by incorporating elements that honor the resilience of the land, the strength of our community, and the beauty that comes from nurturing and protecting what we have.

This collection isn’t just about bringing ʻulu into the design, it’s about honoring Lahaina’s legacy and the resilience of our community. The ʻUlu Kapa Kuiki collection reflects our commitment to healing and rebuilding, and it serves as a reminder of the strength that lives within the land and the people who call it home.

At Henōhea, we’re not just creating clothing; we’re creating pieces that spark conversation and inspire action. Through every design, we aim to raise awareness about sustainability, responsible consumption, and the importance of caring for our ʻāina. The choices we make today will shape the world we leave behind tomorrow, and we want to do our part in protecting the earth for future generations.

The ʻUlu Kapa Kuiki Collection is a celebration of everything we hold dear.... our community, our heritage, and our planet. As you wear these pieces, know that you’re not just putting on clothing. You’re wearing a story. You’re wearing a promise to care for the ʻāina, to nurture what remains, and to walk forward with hope and purpose, as we continue to rebuild, revive, and protect our future.