Ke Alaka'i: Nov. 8, Fall 2023 Fashion Issue

THE LEADER

FALL 2023

p.10 An Evolution Of Personal Style p.28 Radiating Positivity Thurough Style p.74 Clothing confessions: Exploring your fashion arsenal FA LL 2023 1

TEAM MEMBERS

LeeAnn Lambert ADVISOR

Hadley Wurtz MANAGING EDITOR

Antoniette Yee-Liwanag MANAGING EDITOR

Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra) ART DIRECTOR

Chrysanthemumolive (Lisi) Tiafau EDITOR -IN-CHIEF

Eli Hadley EDITOR -IN-CHIEF

Ranitea Teihoarii COPY EDITOR

Manhattan Ethington Prien COPY EDITOR

Karl Aldre Marquez MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Sharini Shanmuganathan MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Chenoa Francis MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Linda Laulu MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Mutia Parasduhita MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

FALL 2023 VOL.1 • VOLUME 140 • ISSUE 2 2 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

THE LEADER

Yichi Lu GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Forrest Christensen GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Yui Leung PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO

Enkhtuvshin Chimee (TJ) PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO

Joseph Ariono PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO

Camille Jovenes PHOTOGRAPHY&VIDEO

Emelia Mike MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Emmie Siebert MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

Dorothy Tonga Settle MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

CJ Shinihah Notarte MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST

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NEWS CENTER: Box 1920 BYUH Laie, HI 96762 Editorial, photo submissions & distribution inquires: kealakai@byuh.edu To view additional articles go to kealakai.byuh.edu

CONTACT: Email: kealakai@byuh.edu Phone: (808) 675-3694 Office: BYU–Hawaii Aloha Center 134 ON THE COVER: A senior from Mongolia majoring in business management, Dorjpagam Ariunbaatar, poses wearing her bright, yellow earrings. Photo by Joseph Ariono. Graphics byYichi Lu. BACK COVER: Students pictured are Kate Wilson, Liahona Moleni and Kenneth Dadson. Photos by Joseph Ariono, Camille Jovenes and Yui Leung. Graphics by Yichi Lu. Kate Wilson

ABOUT The Ke Alaka‘i began publishing the same year the University, then called Church College of Hawaii, opened. It has continued printing for more than 65 years.

The name means “the leader” in Hawaiian.What began as a monthly newsletter, evolved into a weekly newspaper, then a weekly magazine and is now a monthly news magazine with a website and a social media presence.Today, a staff of more than 25 students work to provide information for BYU–Hawaii’s campus ohana and Laie’s community.

© 2023 Ke Alaka‘i BYU–Hawaii All Rights Reserved

4 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

LETTER FROM THE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Dear Readers,

Yichi Lu Yichi Lu, Graphic Designer

I’m very excited to introduce you to this issue, which will explore the world of fashion. However, it’s not just about fashion.

When I was a child, I would occasionally sketch the skirt styles I imagined on paper, and my mother and grandma would bring my drawings to life by cutting them out for me. Ever since then, I’ve had a deep passion for fashion. Developing stylish clothing and makeup combinations has become one of the ways I express myself. Fashion isn’t confined to what’s popular with the public or promoted by mainstream media. Fashion should be personal and a reflection of your true self.

If you’re also curious about finding your unique fashion style, be sure to explore the Aesthetic Style Quiz and the feature story “Finding Your Own Fashion Style.” Perhaps many people view fashion merely as a trendy element or a particular way of dressing.

Some may even believe that fashion isn’t essential in life. However, fashion goes far beyond that. It’s not just about the clothing on our bodies; it also deeply influences our emotions and psychology.

If you share my curiosity about the connection between fashion and psychology, make sure not to miss our feature on “The Psychology of Dressing.” Fashion represents our internal understanding of ourselves and how we express our emotions. In the article “How Did Your Fashion Change During College,” you’ll gain insight into the diverse perspectives of BYU–Hawaii students on fashion and how it has impacted them.

My team and I had a great time putting together this issue, and we discovered innovation and breakthroughs in the photography. Finally, I hope that after reading this magazine you will be able to have a different understanding of fashion like me and provide yourself with more fashion inspiration. Let fashion soothe your emotions and enrich your life.

Mahalo, Yichi Lu Graphic Designer

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50

SUNDAY ELEGANCE

8 Food Fest 2023 Menu

26 Confidence through fashion palette

10 An evolution of personal style

28 Radiating positivity through style

14 Finding empowerment & beauty through hair

30 Aesthetic quiz- minimalist or maximalist?

18 Dressing to the beat

32 Handcrafted with love

20 Finding your own fashion style

36 Threads of ambition

6 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

14 FINDING BEAUTY AND EMPOWEMENT THROUGH HAIR

32

HANDCRAFTED WITH LOVE

40 Eco-printing and vibrant sustainability

62 Creating connections through sewing

42 Valuable possessions

64 Finding love and confidence in our bodies

46 A fashion designer's journey

68 The journey of J-slips

50 Sunday elegance

72 Weaving stories through patterns

54 Thrifting 101

74 Clothing confessions

58 Decades of trends

78 Fashion quotations

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FOOD FEST 2023 Savor the Flavors

Dinner plates AFRO WORLD - SOUL FOOD PLATES

Ingredients: Jollof Rice (rice, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, ginger, butter, chicken broth, chicken bouillon seasoning, maggie seasoning, salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, thyme, seasoned salt, tomato paste, curry powder, onion) Fried Chicken (all purpose chicken seasoning, cajun seasoning, adobo, garlic powder, chicken bouillon, paprika, onion powder, white peppers, cayenne pepper, eggs, hot sauce, cornstarch, all purpose flour) Fried Plantain (Banana, Salt)

AUSTRALIA - AUSSIE MACK PACK

Ingredients: frozen fries, canola oil, cheddar cheese, marinated grilled chicken, doner meat, sauces (barbeque, mayo, garlic sauce, sweet chili)

CAMBODIA- BEEF SKEWERS & PICKLED PAPAYA

Ingredients: Beef, Fish Sauce, Sugar, Oil, Oyster Sauce, Ajinomoto Seasoning, Green Papaya, Carrots, cucumber, Galangal, Dried Chiles, Garlic, vinegar, bread, butter

ECONOMICS - HOT DOGS

Ingredients: Hotdog, hotdog bun, ketchup, mustard, relish

FIJI - CHICKEN CURRY & RICE WITH TOMATOE CHUTNEY Ingredients: Chicken, garlic, salt, Chili, curry powder, curry spices & herbs, cooking oil, lemon juice, potatoes, onion, canned tomatoes, rice

FILIPINO - PINOY PORK BBQ AND PANCIT PALABOK

Ingredients: Palabok (bihon, knorr shrimp cube, ground pork, shrimp, tinapa flakes, annatto water, all-purpose flour, onion, garlic, eggs, green onions, garlic, chicharon, cooking oil, water, patis and ground white pepper) Pork barbecue (pork shoulder, knorr liquid seasoning, calamansi or lime, banana ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder)

HAWAIIAN - KALUA PIG & CABBAGE

Ingredients: Rice, pork, salt, shoyu, cabbage, oil/butter, Taro Leaf (coconut milk, sugar, squid, sweet onions, salt pepper, taro/water = poi)

HMONG - HMONG SAUSAGE + STICKY RICE Ingredients: Rice, Tomatoes, Chili Peppers, Garlic, Cilantro, Fish Sauce, Salt, Sugar, pork (sausage)

FOOD FEST

AT THE BYUH FLAG CIRCLE SATURDAY NOVEMBER 4, 2023

5 pm - 10 pm

KOREA - TTEOKBOKKI

Ingredients: milk, cream, ricecakes (wheat), fish cakes, sausages, pork, chili powder, sugar, black pepper, potato starch, onion powder, garlic powder, chicken stock, salt, soy sauce, red pepper paste.

LATIN AMERICA - TACOS

Ingredients: Flour tortillas, corn tortillas, chicken meat, beef, pork, orange, pineapple, lemons (lime) Chile guajillo, chipotle dry/can, garlic cloves, onion, bay leaves, apple vinegar, fat pepper, balck pepper cloves of smell oregano, cumin, ginger, achiote salt, avocado, red sauce or green sauce, onion, tomato, cilantro, olive oil, lettuce, cheese (shredded cheese), sugar, ice, oil

MALAYSIA - PISANG GORENG

Ingredients: Pisang Goreng Ingredients: Ripe bananas, Rice Flour, All-Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Sugar, Salt, Salt, Cooking Oil Toppings: Condensed Milk, Melted Butter, Cheddar shredded cheese, Sweet Chili Sauce

KEAKA‘I AL AK A‘I 2023 8 KE8 AL 2023

MONGOLIA - BABY PORK RIBS

Ingredients: pork rib, barbecue sauce, head cabbage, carrot, mayonnaise, cilantro

SAMOA - SAMOA KO’OGA’I

Ingredients: Ulu, banana, coconut milk, onions, salt, turkey tail, sweet & sour sauce, rice, mixed vegetables, corned beef, noodle, soy sauce, oil

THAILAND - MOO PING (THAI STYLED GRILLED PORK)

HIP HOP - MILK SHAKES & SMOOTHIES

Ingredients: Strawberry & Cream Flavor (ice, whole milk, vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, strawberries. Cookies & Cream (ice, whole milk, cookies & cream ice cream, whipped cream, oreo cookies, hersey’s chocolate syrup. Chocolate Nutella ( ice, whole milk, chocolate ice cream, nutella, hersey’s chocolate syrup, whipped cream)

OCEAN STEWARDS - SHAVE ICE

Ingredients: ice, syrups (watermelon, strawberry, blueberry, lime, mango, peach), condensed milk, whole cream, coconut cream, red beans, gummy candies

Ingredients: Marinating Pork (coconut milk, fish sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, pepper) For Sauce (fish sauce, lime, brown sugar, dry chili flex, chinese parsley, tamarin, dry rice), cucumber slices, jasmin rice

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT- RED & BLUE MOCKTAILS

TONGA - LUSIPI/ PULU

SOCIAL WORK - AGUAS FRESCAS

Ingredients: bread fruit/casava, banana, taro leaf, coconut milk, mayonnaise, onion, garlic, salt, beef, lamb flaps

Appetizer COOK ISLANDS - KUKI DONUTS

Ingredients: Butter, eggs, oil, salt, cinnamon, nutella, vanilla, yeast, plain flour, sugar, milk, salt

CULINARY - ELOTE STREET CORN

Ingredients: Assorted Soda, Assorted Syrup Flavoring: Add Ons (lemon drops, honey, salt/sugar rim, apple cider vinegar)

Ingredients: Agua de Fresca Cremosa Strawberries ‘n cream (strawberries, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, water, ice) Agua de Pina Pineapple (pineapple, water, sugar, ice) Ague De Pepino con Chia y Limon cucumber with chia and lime (cucumbers, lime juice, chia seeds, water, sugar, ice)

TAIWAN - TARO TAPIOCA, BOBA TEA, SWEET POTATOE TAPIOCA

Ingredients: winter melon, milk, sweet potato, taro, sugar, tapioca, brown sugar

Ingredients: Corn Chili Powder, Butter, Crema Cojita Cheese/ Mexican, cheese, salt, pepper, garlic, lime

Dessert

INDIA - CHICKEN KATHI ROLL

CHINA - SWEET MOMENT

Ingredients: chicken, eggs, yogurt, garlic paste, salt, red chili, tumeric powder, dry coriander powder, cumin powder, cooking oil, lemon juice, bell peppers, cabbage. Green Mayo Sauce (Yogurt, Mayonnaise, mint leaves, fresh coriander leaves, salt, butter, tortilla, lettuce, onions

JAPAN - OKONOMIYAKI (JAPANESE PANCAKE)

Ingredients: Cabbage, egg, flour, dashi, bacon, mayo, green seaweed(aonori), katsuobusi(bonito), tonkatu sauce, yakisoba sauce, black pepper, salt, green onion, red gingerm oil, water

KA HUI MAHI AI - SMOOTHIE BOWL

Ingredients: Strawberry Guava Smoothie (Quartered fresh strawberries, guava, frozen mango cubes, unsweetened coconut or non-dairy milk) Tropical Papaya Smoothie (ripe papaya, frozen pineapple, fresh lime juice, vegan vanilla protein powder, coconut milk, ice cubes) Banana Smoothie (ripe banana sliced, frozen almond butter, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, almond milk)

Drinks CANOE - OTAI / VAIFALA

Ingredients: Oranges, crushed pineapples, watermelon, half and half (milk), sugar, ice, condensed milk, coconut milk

DIVE - ASSORTED SODAS/JUICE & WATER BOTTLES Ingredients: Canned Drinks and Bottled Water

Ingredients: Panda Marshmallow, Green jelly, pocky macha, milk, honey, boba, mung bean

HONG KONG - BUBBLE WAFFLE ICE CREAM

Ingredients: Egg Waffle Mix (Cornstarch, baking powder, egg, sugar, milk, water) Toppings (chocolate syrup, ice cream, sugar, powder)

ONE OHANA - FRUIT SALAD

Ingredients: fruit salad mix in can, shredded coconut in can, condensed milk, all purpose cream, jelly (agar-agar), cheese

ROTUMA - FEKEI

Ingredients: taro, casava starch, sugar , flour

TAHITI - FRENCH CREPES

Ingredients: Flour, Eggs, Butter, Milk, Sugar, Nutella, Peanut Butter, Strawberry Jam, Chocolate Syrup, Strawberries, Bananas, Blueberries, Almonds, Whipped Cream, Oreo, Powder Sugar, Honey, Cocoa Powder

Misc ARTS - FACE PAINTING PHOTOGRAPHY - PHOTO BOOTH PUBLIC SPEAKING - LINING HEADBANDS AOTEAROA - MINI CARNIVAL

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AN EVOLUTION OF PERSONAL STYLE BYUH students share how they discovered their personal style and developed a sense of identity through fashion

BY EMELIA MIKE

Photos of Ryan Escabarte, Kate Wilson (right) and Dorjpagam Ariunbaatar (top right.

Photos by Joseph Ariono.

10 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Exploring personal identity

Ariunbaatar said since she unfollowed celebrities on her Instagram, her style has become a reflection of how her identity has evolved. “I love experimenting with second-hand clothing by styling them with DIY accessories and my vibrant socks,” she explained. Ariunbaatar said she has connected with a group of people who appreciate her unique style.

When Escabarte met a friend who focused more on fashion and style, he said he was inspired to be more mindful of how he presents himself through clothing. He added he has been influenced by men’s fashion accounts on Instagram, such as Noah Altink (@noahaltink) and High Fashion Men (@highfashionmen), for tips and tricks to enhance his style.

Wilson said she got style inspiration from micro-Instagram influencers who live in Hawaii, such as Liv Scott (@liv.scott1) and Daniel Malz (@danielmalzl). She said skateboarding has become one of her hobbies in the past couple of years and has also influenced her fashion tastes. Wilson said, “I did evolve from skater style to fewer patterns and logos, from wearing bright colors to more neutral colors, but I added more timeless and classic pieces.” She added, “It is difficult for me to put myself into a specific box of what style or aesthetic I had or currently have. I wear what I think looks good and feels good. “

S

oon-to-be graduate Ryan Escabarte said throughout his college experience, he has gone from wearing laid-back outfits that prioritized comfort in class to dressing up in clothing he found fashionable. Escabarte, a senior majoring in psychology from the Philippines graduating in Winter 2024, recalled his fashion on his first day of school, “I honestly didn’t mind how I looked or what color complimented my skin tone, and I was not even worried about the sizes of my clothes.” But now he explained his interest in fashion has provided him a way to be creative, stay committed to a routine and practice selflove.

Kate Wilson, a junior majoring in visual arts from Utah, shared, “Fashion may seem intimidating at first and sometimes Honor Code guidelines can feel restrictive, but we can always find ways to wear what we think is cool!”

According to Dorjpagam Ariunbaatar, a senior from Mongolia majoring in business management, dressing up helps her shift into a more positive and productive mood when she is feeling down or unmotivated, she shared. Having the ability to express herself, she said, gives her a sense of empowerment and has inspired others to embrace their individuality.

Influence of culture

Escabarte’s passion for theatre and his interest in different cultures has influenced his fashion choices, he said. “Fashion is a creative outlet where we can experiment with different fabrics, patterns and silhouettes,” he said. He explained how he finds it fascinating when people incorporate traditional elements from their cultural heritage with modern and trendy pieces.

Photo of Ryan Escabarte. Photo by Joseph Ariono.

Fashion in college life

Wilson said as students adapt to the demands of college life, she has noticed that graphic tees, hoodies and jeans are staples. She said the tropical temperature of Hawaii also influences their fashion choices.

“When I first started college, I loved all of the surfer and skater brands, so I wore a lot of T-shirts and baggy pants,” she said.

Ariunbaatar said she has noticed students changed their stylish attire for more casual and comfortable outfits. She said, “Fashion allows individuals to adapt to different occasions and environments, but I think knowing how to dress appropriately for various situations whether formal, casual or special events, is a valuable skill.”

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Having the ability to ex press herse empowerme lf gives her nt and has i a sense of nspired othe individuality rs to embra . ce their

Dorjpagam Arinbaatar posing with her accessories.

Photos by Joseph Ariono.

12 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Ariunbaatar explained how before the peak of social media, fashion magazines used to act as influential platforms that set trends, showcased new designers, provided style inspiration and offered a wealth of information about the fashion industry. “I remember looking at those magazines growing up, and now when I wear certain styles or items that have emotional significance, it makes me feel nostalgic,” she said.

Wilson discussed the advantages of thrifting as a creative approach and shared how her studies in visual arts trained her eyes to see everything expressed creatively as intentional. She said she has been influenced by the culture of thrifting. Her wardrobe is about 75 percent second-hand items and has been for a few years, she said. She also said the sophistication and influence of European streetwear has sparked its popularity among American college students, including in her own style. •

Photos of Kate Wilson. Photos by Joseph Ariono.

Graphics by Yichi Lu.

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Finding

EMPOWERMENT & BEAUTY through hair BYUH students share how they express themselves, their fashions and their cultures through their hair

BY CHENOA FRANCIS 14 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

F

or Lolene Kacivi, Gracie Payne and Fryda Garcia Salgado, hair represents culture, fashion, personal expression, confidence and self-love.

“The way that we wear our hair changes throughout the years, and you find what makes you feel comfortable, confident and better,” said Garcia Salgado, a junior double majoring in intercultural peacebuilding and political science from Mexico. “So hair as fashion is not [about] doing your hair in the correct way. It’s the way that it makes you feel comfortable and empowered.”

Kacivi, an intercultural peacebuilding sophomore from Fiji, explained her hair represents her personal journey. “I cut my hair every time I start something new,” she said.

“I let it grow out throughout the journey, and then if I am moving on to something new, I’ll cut it again. It’s my way of recording my journey, of when I was in that space.”

“Hair is an identifier,” Kacivi added. “It [can and cannot] complete your look or it can make you question. If you look at Fijians, you can identify them by their Afro and its round in shape…Hair tells a story…Hair describes who you are. It says a lot about you.”

Payne, a sophomore from Virginia majoring in social science education, said hair is “a way to try out different styles to make your own.” With current fashions, she said, hair is a necessary accessory. Payne explained how versatile hair is, with the trendy options of dyeing it any color, doing braids or twists and straightening or curling it. She said certain outfits go well with certain hair looks.

Hair and culture According to Payne, “I think hair is super important especially as a Black woman. For years we didn’t really know how to style [our natural hair].”

Payne explained beauty standards in society have not helped Black women have confidence in their hair. She shared experiences where she was uncomfortable because of comments from other people who would say things along the lines of, “I love your crazy hair! I love your poofy hair.”

“This isn’t crazy. This is just my hair,” Payne said. “It really bothered me because I have been getting [those comments] for as long as I can remember. Of course a 5 year old is going to [hear] that and think, ‘I have to wear it like everyone else does'.”

Payne said she now loves her hair. “I think it’s so much fun, especially discovering the right products and diffusers. It feels like such an accomplishment.” She said it took her a while to get to the point of loving her hair because she grew up in an environment where many people had straight hair, convincing her straight hair was the standard of beauty. Once she learned to love her natural hair, she said she loved discovering new ways to style and take care of it.

Garcia Salgado said hair has a lot of meaning in her culture. “In ancient times, pre-colonization, hair identified which tribe you were from and whether you were married or single, and also for girls, it represented when they had their first period,” she explained. “It also showed fertility for girls who had long hair, and the social and economic class you were in.”

As a Fijian, Kacivi said, “Hair is mana (power). We believe that the taller the hair, the more mana you have because it is where your power lies. So traditionally, Fijians would have these big Afros.” She remarked in the Fijian language, the words “kalou mana” represent both power and blessings.

In society and on social media, Garcia Salgado said she believes there is more versatility and representation for diverse hair types. “You can [now] see people with your type of hair doing different hairstyles that motivate you to do your own,” Garcia Salgado said.

Payne said she has noticed there is more representation of Black women’s hair in social media and society, even though there is still more work to do as far as representation goes.

“We’re embracing more of the natural look, letting people just be who they are.”

Kacivi said social media and society are doing a good job of representing Fijian hair types. “There’s been a rise in appreciation for natural indigenous Fijian hair, now it’s [trending]. It’s nice to see girls back at home appreciating their hair and not [relaxing it].”

She said on social media, she is seeing more representation through models, people from her island and family appreciating their natural beauty. Kacivi said her community is embracing their culture and letting go of insecurities.

Finding love for hair Kacivi said she struggled but eventually found love and confidence in her hair. Kacivi’s hair was falling out due to the ingredients she was using in her hair products, she said, and so

From top to bottom: Lolene Kacivi, Gracie Payne and Fryda Garcia Salgado.

Photos by Enkhtuvshin Chimee (TJ).

Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

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she has had to focus on finding the right kind of hair products and hair styles. After taking advice from her friend, she said she was able to find products to stop her hair loss and help her have a healthy and happy hair.

For Garcia Salgado, loving her hair has not always been easy, she said. She said she felt like an outsider because her sister and mother had curly hair while her hair was straight.

“I would cry because I wanted curly hair and I thought that I was ugly and different.” As she grew, Garcia Salgado said her hair changed from straight to “fluffy.”

She said this change caused her to struggle with self-confidence because her hair didn’t fit into a category of curly or straight.

As Garcia Salgado got older, she said her hair transitioned from fluffy to wavy and, finally, to curly. She said she learned how to do her hair and eventually came to love her hair around the ages of 15-16.

Throughout high school, Payne said she felt like she needed to have her hair straight. “I was in a place … [with] mostly white people and so the beauty standard was straight hair.

I was straightening my hair every day, and my hair was getting dry and damaged.”

She said she would wake up two hours earlier every morning to straighten her hair, until one day she decided to shave it. After she shaved her head, Payne said she cried for

two weeks, but eventually felt liberated by the choice.

Payne explained how her mom motivated her and helped her love her natural hair. “I was adopted and my mom, she has all these books about how to style hair. It would be a step-by-step breakdown of how to do braids or get ringlet curls. She was really cute and she worked really hard.” Payne fondly recounted one of her favorite hairstyles her mom did for her included beads at the end of her braids.

Expression through hair Garcia Salgado said, “I feel like with curly hair, everyone goes through a phase where they hate their hair because they do not know what to do with it. With hair, it’s about finding what looks good on you or what you like.” She said she now feels confident about her hair by doing hairstyles like French or Dutch braids, natural curls and two small ponytails which she twists while leaving the rest of her hair down.

“Hair is a way to express yourself….

It’s something very personal.You can follow trends, you can experiment to find what you are looking for,” she explained.

Garcia Salgado encouraged others to find expression and confidence in their hair, while using it as a way to uplift and find beauty in themselves.

From left to right: Gracie Payne, Lolene Kacivi and Fryda Garcia Salgado.

Photos by Enkhtuvshin Chimee (TJ).

Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

16 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Payne loves experimenting with her hair and finding new styles that can complement her hair, she said. “One of my favorite hairstyles right now is [by] pulling my hair back, putting it into a ponytail and flipping the hair back. It looks really voluminous.”

Payne said she enjoys seeing her hair in disarray when she wakes up, as it is funny to her and satisfyingly proves how well she slept the previous night. She also said her curls bring her joy.

Kacivi said her hair connects to her favorite person in the world, her grandfather.

On the back of Kacivi’s head, she said she has what is similar to a widow’s peak, which her grandfather had as well. Though her grandfather passed away a few years ago, she said she still marvels at the connection she has with him. “They would call me after him because we both had … a little tail [at the back of our head]…They could call me and my grandfather ‘Taito,’” Kacivi recalled. •

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DRESSING TO THE BEAT

BYUH students discuss their musical preferences and how they impact their fashion choices

BY DOROTHY TONGA SETTLE

Rhythm & Blues (R&B)

Tekifaiva Tuitavake, a sophomore from Australia majoring in biology, shared her love for R&B music and her current favorite artist Brian McKnight. She said R&B songs help her feel calm, at peace and remind her of home, which is very nostalgic for her. “The genre of music I love is very chill and laid-back and greatly represents how I want to represent myself,” she said. She added she loves choosing clothes with neutral colors in hopes they give off a relaxing aura to those she meets.

Country

Tatum Tingey, a senior from Arizona majoring in accounting, shared her fondness for country music by mirroring the fashion of her favorite music artist, Laney Wilson. “She wears very fun colors, wide-leg jeans and big earrings. She pulls it off so well that it makes me think I can too,” she said.

Favorite Song: “Watermelon Moonshine” - Laney Wilson

Favorite Song: “I Like You” - Post Malone Tekifaiva Tuitavake (left) and Tatum Tingey (right) posing for a photo.

Photos by Camille Jovenes. Graphics by Forrest Christensen.

18 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Jazz

Naina Tai Hook, a senior majoring in psychology from Hauula expressed her adoration for jazz rhythms. She said she likes listening to Ella Fitzgerald, but R&B and K-pop are mostly her fashion inspirations in terms of accessories. She added this concept makes all her outfits look better, especially gold earrings. “I think for every person trying to get into a fashion, they should invest or try to find their signature scent,” she said.

Favorite Song: “Let You Break My Heart Again” Laufey

Hip-hop/Rap Mongolian Pop

Baldandorj Ganbaatar, a junior from Mongolia majoring in business management, said his music preferences are “modernized cultural pop.”

His favorite musical artist and fashion icon is a young and rising Mongolian pop artist named Young Mo’G. “I like his style because he has used modern clothes like the hoodie, but with traditional Mongolian fabric and patterns on it,” he said.

Judah Kivalu, a freshman from Tonga majoring in mathematics, said he has his heart set on hip-hop and rap with his all-time favorite artist, Usher.

With meticulous attention to detail, he tries to replicate Usher’s signature looks especially the trendy streetwear. “Wear something that brings what’s inside of you and reflects who you are,” he said. He said he chose the trendy streetwear style because it best reflects the kind of person he is and how he wants others to perceive him.

Favorite Song: “Into You” - Usher •

Favorite Song: “Naadii” - Young Mo’G

Naina Tai Hook (upper left), Baldandorj Ganbaatar (lower left) and Judah Kivalu (lower right) showcasing the music genre they like through fashion. Photos by Camille Jovenes. Graphics by Forrest Christensen.

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BY SHARINI SHANMUGANATHAN

BYUH students and an alumna share how fashion influences who they are

Finding your own fashion Style

20 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Pictured is BYUH alumna Nakiya Russell who says she mixes her style depending on if she is going to work or just being casual. Photo by Yui Leung.

J

enna Call, Precious Donato and Nakiya Russell said they see personal style and fashion as a means of self-expression and confidence. They all emphasized the importance of feeling comfortable and true to oneself in one’s clothing, regardless of societal standards or trends. They encouraged others to embrace their uniqueness and to be fearless in experimenting with their fashion choices as a way to communicate their personalities and values to the world.

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Senior Jenna Call encouraged students to not be afraid of experimenting with different styles to find what makes them feel most beautiful and confident. Photos by Yui Leung.

Embracing uniqueness

Jenna Call, a senior majoring in marine biology from Washington, said, “As someone who has never fit the ideal body type, I think finding your fashion should be about finding whatever makes you feel beautiful and confident.” She expressed she has never been skinny and felt she needed to lose weight before she could look and feel pretty in her clothes. Call said when she started finding her style and finally having clothes that made her feel pretty, it was a big breakthrough for her.

“Everyone deserves to feel pretty, sexy, and confident,” said Call. “Your personal style must be true to you,” she explained.

“Developing style is a way to put roots into who you are. It takes some soul searching. For me, being with nature is my happy comfort place, and it’s the reason I want to become a scientist,” said Call.

Call described the Earth and nature’s connections to creating life. The way it breathes and changes with the seasons, the resilience and strength with which it digs its roots and the acceptance of death are all powerful things she relates to fashion and finds a place within.

22 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

“Someone searching for their own style should put in some work to root themselves into what they like, what they are drawn to, where their comfort is and where they see themselves fitting in the world. If your style is going to be an extension of you, you must know yourself,” said Call.

She said growing up in Seattle allowed her to meet a lot of different people, and people are not afraid to style up. Call said she started finding her own fashion style in high school, where she had the desire to be more feminine.

“I like connecting to nature and styling up in florals and earthy tones. Being a marine biology major plays into that study of life and it is beautiful with all the plants and animals,” said Call.

She said wearing dresses and corsets feels normal in Washington, but coming to Hawaii has been different, as people wear casual beach clothes, which are more simplistic and made her feel out of place because she got a lot of stares. Despite the stares she got, Call said she has also gotten lots of compliments on her style.

She said she even makes her own jewelry, explaining, “I started making jewelry when I

was in middle school by playing around with beads and wire. I like using silver metal and earth tones beads and charms that are shaped like leaves and flowers.”

Call said she has always felt different from people when it comes to her sense of fashion and style. “I feel very individualistic, where I try to make what I feel on the inside match the outside. It makes me feel extravagant and connected to the earth,” said Call. She recalled the feeling of being different and not fitting in is comfortable and feels like her.

Call encouraged others to be eccentric and not to be afraid to style up. She said, “Go outside of your comfort zone. Pinterest is really helpful because you can curate things that are really cool like staple pieces. Even if your style is minimal, sleek and professional, just try it out.”

She said nature helps her understand her fashion. “Being an eternal being where my spirit has existed for so long and has a life and personality, I’m trying to find ways to express the way that I feel about myself in a way that I can communicate with others.”

Call said fashion doesn’t have to be scary because there’s no right or wrong way to do

“Being an eternal being where my spirit has existed for so long and has a life and personality, I’m trying to find ways to express the way that I feel about myself in a way that I can communicate with others.” -Jenna Call FA LL 2023 23

it. “I’m never scared to wear something that’s different from everyone else because it’s a representation of me and that is the first step in communicating who you are,” said Call.

Empowerment through clothing

Precious Donato, a senior from the Philippines majoring in biology, said, “You wear the clothes and don’t let the clothes wear you.” She said there is no need to copy others, but being aware of your personality is more important because it will show up more than what you’re actually wearing.

Donato described herself as bubbly and shy, with low self-esteem, but said wearing the right clothes gives her confidence and helps her overcome her social awkwardness.

“If I feel happy, I’ll wear bright colors and dresses. Other than that, I try to express my personality through my clothes,” said Donato.

She expressed her day-to-day basis for styling depends on her personality for the day. “On days where I feel I’m going to be professional, I’d wear slacks with button-up shirts, and if I feel edgy, I’ll wear black. It also depends on what activities I have for the day,” she said. She said most of her days are spent doing lab work, so she tries to incorporate wearing long sleeves, pants and close-toed shoes.

Donato noted she likes jewelry and matching it with her clothes. She said her desire to be unique and memorable to people motivates her to dress well. Even though she is busy with her senior year, she said experimenting with putting different patterns together allows her to continue exploring her style and branching out to express her personality.

Harmony of faith and fashion

Nakiya Russell, a BYUH alumna from Arizona, said her lifelong love of fashion reflects her evolving relationship with spirituality and self-expression by emphasizing the fact one can be modest and fashionable at the same time.

Russell said she leads two separate fashion lives due to her dual roles in the corporate world and her personal time.

In her professional environment, she said she prioritizes a polished and professional appearance, especially when interacting with various individuals, including church members and leaders.

24 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

“You wear the clothes we clothes and don’t le t the ar you.” -P recious D onato

However, during her personal time, she said she embraces a mix of streetwear and classy styles, enjoying the creative process of combining different elements. She said she adopts a strategic approach to her outfits, often starting with one central item and building her look around it.

Russell said investing time in her appearance sets a positive tone for her day and is essential for her overall well-being.

“I feel my fashion is an expression of my personality. The things I choose to wear and

Precious Donato says she is constantly experimenting with different styles. Photos by Yui Leung.

“There’s never just one or the other. You can do both. You can have it all. You can be modest.

You can have your fashion, look amazing and feel good at the same time.” -Nakiya Russell

Nakiya Russell said it is important to put comfort over what people think of others when it comes to clothing. Photo by Yui Leung.

how I choose to present myself are reflections of my relationship with God and my respect for him,” said Russell. Reflecting on her high school experience and personal growth, Russell described the common teenage phase of wanting to fit in and follow trends and how her understanding of spirituality has shifted her perspective.

“Building my testimony was one of the bigger things I could have done to help me understand my true style,” said Russell. She highlighted how it is easy to seek validation through appearance, but as she has deepened her connection with God, she has learned to prioritize what makes her feel genuinely comfortable and reflects her values rather than seeking approval from others.

During the moments when she felt out of place, Russell said self-awareness and

understanding one’s body and preferences to navigate situations effectively are important.

She said it’s challenging but essential not to overly concern oneself with others’ opinions, as everyone experiences moments of nervousness and insecurity.

She said her desire to style other people has elevated her desire to explore different fashion styles. “Wearing what feels good and comfortable should be a priority,” said Russell.

She emphasized one could follow the standards and be fashionable at the same time. She said, “There’s never just one or the other.You can do both.You can have it all.You can be modest.

You can have your fashion, look amazing and feel good at the same time. So, don’t settle for less and find that happy medium.” •

FA LL 2023 25

Portrait of Accalia Stancliffe.

Photo by Yui Leung. Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

Confidence through Fashion Palette BYUH students share their tips for mastering color coordination

BY MUTIA PARASDUHITA

D

iscussing the elements of capsule wardrobes, fashion enthusiast Abish Baliwas said she found happiness in the art of mixing and matching colors in her outfit. Baliwas is a senior majoring in anthropology and political science from the Philippines.

According to the Modern Minimalism website, the term “capsule wardrobe” was introduced in London in 1970. The website explains, “A capsule wardrobe contains a few essential and timeless items, such as skirts and pants, that you can supplement with seasonal pieces [and maximize the number of outfits].

For Baliwas, the capsule wardrobe is something she always has on her list. She said her collection consists of a long, short-sleeved white shirt, a black shirt, a black dress, denim pants, dress slacks and white shoes. She said having neutral colors allows everyone to pair them up with anything. She said, “You can wear the same pants and shirt every day then just change [outerwear] over it and nobody’s going to know.” Baliwas suggested putting on a jacket, hoodie, cardigan or any patterned outerwear.

26 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Vibrant-colored clothing

When she was younger, Baliwas said her mom always took her to the thrift store so she could learn to mix and match outfits. She said her confidence to wear bright colors didn’t come instantly. “You would never catch me wearing something bright before, because I was very insecure about my skin color. I was darker than other people in the Philippines, so I convinced myself never to wear brightly colored outfits.”

But when she arrived at college, she wore a light yellow dress and people complimented it when they saw it. She said since then, it has become her signature color and people remember her as the yellow-dress girl.

Accalia Stancliffe, a senior majoring in visual arts from Texas, shared a similar experience. Stancliffe said she used to wear jeans and simple oversized T-shirts, but her style began to shift as she began trying out brighter clothes. After feeling more comfortable dressing in more vivid colors, she said, “I can wear neon colors. Our skin should not dictate what color clothing you wear, because all of us can pull off whatever color if we go more into fashion.”

Stancliffe said every person has their own favorite color and it doesn’t always mean it’s a reflection of the common meaning or symbolism of color for a person.

She explained, the color blue commonly symbolizes sadness or dilemma, but if someone’s favorite color is blue, it might be simply their happy color. Stancliffe said, “Because of my love for Princess Peach, that’s why I was naturally drawn to the color pink. … Try to adopt the color that matches best with you and explore it.”

In her painting class, Stancliffe said she learned about how light and color bounce off and reflect onto our skin. She explained it works when the light hits our faces and clothes. She illustrated this by hovering her hand over her green pants and the green reflected on her hand. She said this principle reminded her certain colors are more flattering on certain people, but it doesn’t limit you to wearing bright neon colors.

“It will be hurtful t the eyes because the o colors fight each oth It won’t be good for er. those who wear and see it.”

Abish Baliwas

pattern with another. However, when it is not on a catwalk, there is always a preference. For her daily outfit, she said she wouldn’t combine patterns. “It will be hurtful to the eyes because the colors fight each other. It won’t be good for those who wear and see it.”

Stancliffe said, “Personally, mixing gold and silver is never a good idea because it’s a different type of metal.” She added it has the same characteristics as a strong hook to the eye but doesn’t look good when they’re together. “If you wear something dominantly gold, just stick with gold. That’s the same with silver.” As people train their eyes on what is appropriate and inappropriate to be combined, she said, slowly they will understand what style and color are appealing to the eye.

Accessories to complement

Baliwas said some days she might only want to dress up simply with subtle colors.

She said when her outfit is only a shirt and jeans, she chooses to match it up with accessories. She said even a simple accessory can add a little accent to your overall look.

Stancliffe said the accessories people wear can match the hue and saturation of their shirts. She said one of her tie-dye dresses is yellow, green and pink. She suggested choosing accessories with a color element from one’s outfit, even if it’s only a small part, it is acceptable.•

Do’s and dont's

Baliwas said there are no exact do’s or don’ts in fashion because, in high fashion, sometimes they professionally clash one

FA LL 2023 27

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BY MUTIA PARASDUHITA Claire Westcott uses fashion as a means of self-expression.

Photo by Yui Leung.

28 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

get ready faster in the morning. She explained, “For an 8 a.m. class, I usually get ready at 7 a.m. and I take up to 15 minutes to get ready, but it [would] take longer if I didn’t have an outfit plan in mind.”

Through experimentation, Claire Westcott says she has been able to develop a very unique personal fashion.

Photo by Yui Leung.

T

o express her personality and passion, Claire Westcott, a senior majoring in biology from Utah, said she chooses to dress up every day, intentionally planning her outfits. She said her daily campus attire has become a form of self-expression to boost her mood.

Claire Westcott said her passion for dressing up differently gradually grew as she started to explore different styles in high school. She said the confidence she gained grew from the compliments of others, as she tried to explore new types of outfits.

She said one day she started a habit of mixing and matching earrings, wearing different types of earrings on the left and right side, just because she felt it was fun. To her surprise, she said it became a trend at her school. She recalled people coming up to her and saying, “I need to start doing that because it’s really cool.”

From there, she realized the importance of personal confidence and how it impacted the way she felt throughout the day. Westcott said, “It makes me feel good because somebody else could appreciate the way I dress and like what I like.”

Her habit of dressing up for school continued into her college years. She said, “The moment of creating an outfit is the most fun part of my day. It makes me more confident, comfortable and excited.” Westcott said she often plans out her outfits for the following day the night before, so it helps her

Radiating positivity through style “I think dressing up attracts more positivity,” said Claire Westcott. She said she has connected to more people as she put effort into her dress for campus. She said, sometimes when she would walk in the hallway, she was approached by someone whom she never met before who would compliment her outfit.

When she has seen people with an outfit she loves, she said she has also stopped to tell them how awesome and fabulous they look.

She said she began to realize the positivity spread from those experiences was not only because of her love for clothing, but also because of how light it can make one feel to open their mouth and say a kind word every day. She said radiating positivity, from a simple thing like an outfit, can have a big influence on the psychology of a person.

Claire Westcott said when people have complimented her, she hopes they walked away thinking, “‘I can dress up in a weird way too. I can be brave to wear different clothes.’

I hope when people find something they love, even if it’s not a normal everyday outfit piece, they will wear it because they love it.”

Dressing up Claire Westcott said every single person has a different preference for dressing up.

She added how she noticed most people are comfortable wearing regular jeans and shirts on a daily basis to campus. However, for her, she said she chooses to wear a long skirt for her comfortable daily attire.

Westcott embraced the freedom to move in a long skirt, being loose and easy to move around in. A playful-patterned and colorful skirt is her go-to campus choice, which she said automatically distinguishes her from other people. She said, “I feel sometimes I look more dressed up because I wear skirts as if I am ready to go somewhere fancy, but I guess I don’t feel fancy. I just like what I like wearing.”

With her unwavering belief there is no limitation to how someone is supposed to look, Claire Westcott said when people doubt their outfits because of others’ opinions, “Say to yourself, ‘I can wear it because I like it, not

because other people are going to approve of it.’” She noted it is not always simple to think this way, but she encourages everyone to just do it because it is worth it. “That’s what makes me the happiest when I am getting ready,” she said.

Claire Westcott’s sister, Cora Westcott, a senior majoring in intercultural peacebuilding from Utah, said Claire Westcott’s confidence is something that makes her comfortable with her style. She said people might think twice about wearing the outfit she wears, but her confidence diminished the question. Cora Westcott said, “She doesn’t care what people think. All I know is she dresses for herself. It’s not about making other people think she is cool, but she’s doing it for herself.”

Cora Westcott said her sister’s way of dressing influenced the way she chose her fashion style. She said, “There are so many days when I see Claire wear a specific thing she wanted to wear too.” Cora Westcott highlighted the way her sister sees herself, which motivated her to be creative in exploring her outfit. For her, having a role model in styling is good, but she added everyone can learn to do it their own way. •

With her signature style which includes long skirts, Claire Westcott lives a life feeling confident in her clothing choices. Photo by Yui Leung.

FA LL 2023 29

Is your style MINIMALIST or MAXIMALIST?

BY KARL ALDRE MARQUEZ

Select the response that accurately reflects your style for each choice. After answering all of the questions, add up your responses and see whether you are a minimalist or a maximalist.

When buying new clothes, you consider: A.) Will it match with the majority of clothes already in my wardrobe?

B. ) I love it because it is unique and doesn’t have to match what’s already in my closet.

Your closet’s color palette is: A.) Neutral- blacks, whites, grays, navy, beige or anything alike.

B.) A mix of everything, which includes bright and pastel color patterns.

Your preferred T-shirt design is: A.) Plain or with subtle or small graphics.

B.) Bold prints, logos, colorful and heavy graphic designs.

When attending a formal event: A.) A classic black or neutral dress or suit.

B.) A statement outfit with bold colors and unique patterns.

Your go-to shoes are: A.) A comfortable pair that goes with almost everything.

B.) Different pairs for different moods and outfit patterns.

Photo from Unsplash.

Graphics by Yichi Lu.

Your favorite sweater or jacket is: A.) A timeless piece in a neutral shade.

B.) A trendy or colorful piece.

Your typical bag or purse is: A.) One or two versatile bags in neutral colors.

B.) Several bags in different shapes, sizes and colors.

Your typical set of trousers: A.) Straight-cut, chinos or simple slacks.

B.) Culottes (flowy pants), bell-bottoms, oversized, or trousers with designs.

Your ideal hat is: A.) A simple beanie, classic snapback or fitted hat.

B.) Decorative headwear with a standout design, pattern, and color.

How do you feel about mixing patterns?

A.) Prefer to keep it simple, usually one pattern at a time, Results: depending on my mood.

B.) It is my style! I can style and mix it with whatever I want!

Yes, please!

Your fashion preferences tend to align with minimalism, emphasizing a fondness for versatility, simplicity, enduring fashion choices and an unassuming aesthetic.

Minimalism revolves around possessing only what one genuinely adores and requires, with no excess. Even within minimalism, there is room for enjoying color and occasional eclectic touches while always maintaining a commitment to simplicity.

Your fashion sense leans towards maximalism, embracing diversity and bold, eye-catching selections while reveling in the joy of experimentation.Your priority is to curate an environment filled with items that bring you happiness, characterized by an eclectic collection of art, textures, colors and decorative items. Maximalism is different from simplicity. It’s opting for an abundance of visuals and layers. Maximalism is more of a lifestyle than an aesthetic!

Source: Doablesimplicity.com -Minimalism Vs. Maximalism: Is It Better To Have Too Much Stuff or Not Enough?

Handcrafted with love BYUH student Fenua Aiu and his mother share about their journey beginning a jewelry business in Hawaii

BY CJ SHINIHAH NOTARTE 32 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

F

enua Aiu and his mother Cindy Sagarese said their jewelry business is different from others because they express their love for their culture through the products they make and sell.

They said jewelry in general is important because it enhances the beauty of the person who has it.

Aiu, a sophomore majoring in business management from Kahuku, said, “It’s the cherry on top, the icing on the cake, the silver lining.”

Set apart from the competition

Their personal relationship as mother and son makes them different from their competitors, said Sagarese, Aiu’s mother and a businesswoman from Kahuku. She also said they make their jewelry for an affordable price. “It is luxury out of an affordable price and it completely makes us competitive.” She shared Aiu creating and designing jewelry as a man is one of the company’s advantages. Sagarese said, “I think it is really nice, especially because then he can ask directly from women like me, his sister or his friends.” She continued, “They give him ideas, then he is able to create based on how he feels he would make someone feel from a man’s perspective.”

m a e r d a e v “If you ha e b t ’ n o d , l or a goa ” . t i r o f o g o t d i a r f a agarese Cindy S

Left: Fenua Aiu holds one of the necklaces he designed. Right: Kesaia Loleka Kawenalani Pululole Rachel Bourne models Aiu’s necklaces, earrings and bangles.

Photos by Camille Jovenes.

Graphics by Yichi Lu.

FA LL 2023 33

Another special thing about their jewelry is it is handmade, said Sagarese. “It is not a machine that made it, He literally put his hands on it and touched it and hammered it...

That is so special to me.” She explained how their jewelry can last for a long time.

She said, “Fenua’s pieces will last you forever because of the types of materials he chooses. Of course, you have to take care of it.

You can’t expect it to last forever, but for the most part, if you take care of your pieces they last forever.” She said it is an investment of love for oneself and for their loved ones.

Sagarese expressed her thoughts about students who are planning to start a business.

She said, “If you have a dream or a goal, don’t be afraid to go for it.”

She continued, “Take that chance, take that slot, and even if there are struggles along the way or even if it’s difficult, that is what’s going to make you figure it out and become successful.”

Sagarese shared, “I had struggles in my other businesses to get to where I am, and now I’m able to bless people like my son and be able to mentor him.”

Sagarese encouraged everyone to go for their dreams. She said, “If you have a dream or a goal, business or not, you should go for it.

Jump in.You’re not alone. Someone will help you, especially when you seek that help and never give up.”

34 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

A family story

Aiu said he and his mom started their jewelry business together. He said, “It first came from just an idea that came from my mom.” He added, “She wanted jewelry for her and for her friends… but none of them really felt right. So she was like, ‘What if we make it ourselves?’”

Aiu recalled the experience of how they began the business. “We had a lot of trial and error,” he said. “Bangles are the first thing we started off with.” He also said after he learned how to make some jewelry and was surprised with the outcome, he his mom encouraged him to building a business.

He said, “I went for it and little by little.

I started adding pieces, different requests, different designs. From there, we kind of had Fenua Designs.” Aiu said he gets his inspiration from Tahitian pearls and various Polynesian islands.

Sagarese said her previous entrepreneurial experiences helped her know how to start businesses and allowed her to guide Fenua in starting his. She explained that love for their culture and an understanding of the demand for jewelry influenced the beginning of Fenua Designs, saying, “We love our culture, and I knew that the type of jewelry I wanted him to make me is also the jewelry that other women and also men who want to buy for their girlfriend or spouse would want. I saw a need

and that is what led us to meet the demand because people love it.”

Aiu explained why his pieces are different compared to products made by other jewelry businesses. He said, “Fenua Design is very specific. It’s a very different style.”

He said he would still make jewelry, even if he didn’t make any money. “When I bring the pieces to people, I love seeing how happy they are. I love making people happy [and] just sharing the happiness or the light of Christ,” he said.

Aiu said his favorite piece right now is the one he created for his co-worker, which he described as a spiral ring with two Tahitian pearls. Though it is not yet released, he said it was the hardest one he has done so far. “It took me a while to try and figure out how to do it... [but] it turned out really good.”

The importance of jewelry

Sagarese explained, “What I love the most about jewelry is how it makes you feel.” She continued, “It fulfills a feeling that you can take pride in.”

Sagarese shared her thoughts about the importance of jewelry in the fashion industry.

“They are called accessories. They enhance whatever you are wearing… . It dresses you up,” she said. “That’s what it does for fashion.

It makes it more special than it already is.”

Kesaia Loleka Kawenalani Pululole Rachel Bourne, a sophomore from New Zealand majoring in elementary education, said she loves how jewelry brings everything together and emphasizes everything.

She said, “For me, I love wearing statement earrings and I just feel like that’s what makes me, me.”

Bourne said fashion is an art. She shared, “It’s everything combined. It’s everything that you put together.” She also said she loves wearing jewelry because it is a way for her to express her personality. “I want to portray myself that I am confident with my style.”

Bourne loves anything that has a flare or flowy style, she said, and is inspired by the ‘70s. She also explained she wants her style to be infused with both her Hawaiian and Tongan cultures.

Bourne said she began her own jewelry business two months ago and hopes to eventually move into clothing. She said, “I came from a family of entrepreneurs and educators. It’s always been a dream to have my

Special

Handcrafted

Creations

With love

Left: Fenua Aiu, entrepreneur and jewelry maker, smiles for the camera.

Above: Kesaia Loleka Kawenalani Pululole Rachel Bourne shows off Aiu’s triple pikake earrings.

own business. I can share my passion, my art, my style and express it in my way.” She also said she loves her style so much that she wants to share it with people. “This is what I created, and I would love other people to wear my designs and feel what I feel when I dress up.” •

FA LL 2023 35

THREADS OF AMBITION

36 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

A BYUH student shares his early experiences in art that turned into a clothing business.

BY KARL ALDRE MARQUEZ

B

orn and raised in Hauula, Hawaii, Ocean Tuia, a freshman majoring in graphic design, said his love for the arts paved the way for him to start his own clothing brand called “Solid Vibez Only.” He said the brand aims to cater athletic, skate and surf-style garments to local, international teens and young adults.

Ocean Tuia said his early experiences in art helped him discover additional talents and skills. He said he was able to use art in a way to express his wants and desires and, at the same time, to make some profit.

“Being a student, entrepreneur, and father is challenging and stressful to balance all three, but being gospel-centered in our family made it easier for me to go through life every day,” he said.

The decision to start a business Ocean Tuia said he was raised in a loving family where his parents worked hard for him and his siblings. He said his mother worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center for 30 years, while his dad worked and still works in maintenance for BYU–Hawaii. “I attended Laie Elementary and finished high school in Kahuku. I am pretty well versed in the community and know many people,” he said.

Ocean Tuia said he was the youngest of four and all three of his sisters are BYUH alumni. By the time he finished high school, he said he applied to the university and had served a mission in San Diego, California for two years, where he said he created many memories. He said after a few short months, he started dating Peyten Facemyer and they eventually got married and sealed in Utah in 2022. “Right after my mission, I became

excited to fulfill my dreams, and I am sure that marrying in the temple was the first step of achieving my passion and dreams,” he said.

Peyten Facemyer, an alumna of BYUH from Utah, said Ocean Tuia’s desire to start a business started when they were dating.

She said he was already making stickers for a company and car owners. “When he was printing and selling stickers to customers, I told him to create social media accounts and a website that would allow him to reach more people and potential customers,” she said.

Upon doing so, she said his desire to just stick with the clothing brand elevated, and little by little, she saw immense progress.

Ocean Tuia said his wife has played a huge role behind the scenesby keeping him up to date, organize orders by tracking and responding to their website and social media.

“Besides keeping things organized, she also helped me to have a better perspective with my female customers. She helps me determine which style women might want and create stocks specifically for them if many like the idea,” he said.

high school, I was busy preparing for a mission and the thoughts of making a business around expressing art remained,” he said.

After finishing his mission, he said his passion and desire to start a business grew.

So after a few months of returning from his mission, he said he immediately started creating art to get into business. “While I was doing construction, I would spend most of my free time creating graffiti and other art on my iPad. I found out that my sister had a Cricut machine and it started my thoughts of getting into the sticker business,” he said. He said he started printing stickers for the construction company he worked for until it evolved to having several customers.

Ocean Tuia said his sticker printing business was on the rise at first, but he felt something was missing. He said he explored

Using available resources Ocean Tuia said the idea for his brand, besides early experiences in art, came when he started doing side hustles in his childhood.

“Back in elementary, I used to sell gumballs to other students for school allowance and at the same time to save up money. It happened for quite some time and it evolved to selling musubis when I was in Kahuku High School,” he said.

Ocean Tuia said his early experience earning money by himself created a spark of an idea to help him to be independent. “After

@SOLIDVIBESONLY FA LL 2023 37

Above: Ocean Tuia with Solid Vibes merchandize. Photos by Camille Jovenes. Below: Solid Vibes instagram

the idea of making a shirt from the designs he creates and decided to try it. “I thought about switching my sticker business into a clothing business and found out my older brother owned a screen printing press so I tried printing my designs on a shirt,” he said.

Manu Tuia, Ocean’s cousin from Laie, said he admired his passion for his clothing brand and staying consistent with it. He said the resources were already available for him to execute his clothing business.

Expanding his business Ocean Tuia said when he tried printing some of his logos and art on blank shirts, it inspired him to shift his focus from stickers to a clothing line. “When I first used the printing machine, it was as hard as I thought it would 38 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

be. I had several shirts rejected because of the poor quality and at times, it messed up the print pattern I created. It was difficult, but it did not stop me from keeping going,” he said.

Ocean Tuia said after a few months of trial and error he finally became convinced of making a clothing brand. He said his drive and endless efforts in perfecting his prints on garments led him to finally start his brand.

“Apart from being excited, the drive that I had in mind pushed me to get into the clothing business immediately,” he said.

Manu Tuia said his initial reaction to Ocean’s clothing brand, in the beginning was being proud. “I can still remember the time when our grandma used to bake and sell cakes as a side hustle. I am sure there is inspiration to grind and earn from there as well,” he said.

Moreover, he said because of his clothing

brand increasing in orders, he offered help by being a model to his clothing line as he continued to work hard for it.

During the early months of operation, he said his inspiration for patterns and designs came from what he loves: skating, surfing and athletic brands. “Since then, I have decided that my target audience is teens and young adults. Because those demographics are prone to following trends, it is easier to market my products to them,” he said.

Ocean Tuia said he supplies custom basketball and football jerseys in Kahuku. “I get a ton of inspiration from famous brands that I know most of my customers are aware of. I try to revolve in the same quality and design but affordable for everyone,” he said.

After much success, he also became a brand partner for athletes. He said he

“I am bringing my wife, baby and my clothing brand back to the Aina.”

testing, inspections and more. I became busier,” he said.

Ocean Tuia said before supplying and creating the clothes, his company goes through a series of processes. He said his workers overseas contact him most of the time to talk about the quality of the products they are creating. He said before they send it over to him, they usually send video snippets to give an up-close look at a specific clothing line. He said it takes a while to see the overall quality of the product, and it takes around two weeks for it to be shipped to his place.

Returning to the Aina

had players sign an NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deal where he sponsors them with the clothing brand. “I know athletes have major effects when it comes to brands, so I have one sign from the University of Texas, Utah Utes, Utah State Aggies, a USA team rugby player and two potential signings from other universities. I am positive that this will ultimately help my product reach nationwide customers and not just here,” he said.

He said because of the increasing demand for products, he reached out to people overseas and built a strong relationship with them. He said he started printing and designing clothes at home and now he has suppliers from China, the United Kingdom and Pakistan. “Now that I have help from overseas, my job has become easier due to the high demand for clothes, mock-ups, product

Ocean Tuia said after the success he experienced with his clothing brand, he felt something was missing. He said after conversing with his wife, they decided to go back to Hawaii and continue his education at BYUH. Upon submitting his intent to enroll in school, he said he was able to get in easily.

“Moving back to Hawaii was not easy, but with careful consideration, I am bringing my wife, baby and my clothing brand back to the aina,” he said.

While in school, he said he struggled for a bit balancing his time from his brand, family, studies and the construction company he was working for. He said it was hard to balance everything in a day but thanks to his wife, he was able to do it. Moreover, he said a challenge for him was whether to keep his employment at the construction company or just focus on his brand. He said after fasting and praying, he let go of his construction job and focused his whole attention on the brand.

Facemyer said, “I would encourage him to continue elevating his business but at the same time to take longer breaks and focus more on his education at this moment.”

Ocean Tuia said his future plans for his clothing brand is to stay a consistent brand owner and at the same time a disciple of God. He said the only way to get his business going is to put God and his family first. “I am positive that my clothing brand will be fine and will exist as long as I stay true to myself, my family and to God. Right now, I feel positive and calm knowing that if I do my part everything will fall into its proper place,” he said.

Apart from his family and devotion to God, he said he is still pursuing NIL deals with college athletes across the nation. He said he planned on signing two potential candidates right now and many more in the future. “Besides the NIL deals, I wanted to make school an important key in my success,” he said. Ocean Tuia said in order to make his brand international, he needs to make early networks and connections with people around campus. He said after finishing school, his next goal is to make his clothing brand known around the globe and to be able to provide jobs for people to assist him in his clothing line worldwide.• Ocean Tuia’s website:

https://www.solidvibezonly.com/

FA LL 2023 39

Eco-printing and vibrant sustainability Community member shares her passion for sustainable artistry

BY EMMIE SIEBERT

J

ill Smith, a community member from Oahu’s North Shore and owner of the clothing line “Ali Dakota,” described the beginning of her process of creating her eco-printed clothing pieces saying, “It all began with a walk in the forest.” She explained her clothing line represents the art of experimentation with nature’s finest products.

Eco-printing, according to the Lost in Colours website, is “a natural dyeing technique that uses leaves, flowers and other plant based materials to create patterns and colors on fabric.”

Smith said her journey with eco-printing began out of concern for her wellbeing. She said, “I had been doing a lot of dying with toxic color dyes and the chemicals started to affect my health.” Smith said this sparked her desire to learn more about natural dying. In her search, she said she stumbled upon the book “Eco Color” by India Flint.

Flint’s story of natural dying, according to Smith, began as a child. One day, as a young girl, she said Flint noticed a leaf would leave a print when she went out to collect eggs. She then was inspired to see what would happen on fabric. “The prints she was creating were so mystifying to me that I needed to give it a try.

Her book explained the basics, but didn’t really tell it all,” Smith said.

40 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Eco-printing process

“I get to start the process by walking through a beautiful forest gathering up leaves, bark and whatever else I’m compelled to experiment with,” she explained. Smith said from this, she returns home to organize her cloth, places the bits of nature on and rolls it into a bundle tied very tightly to let it boil and steam in the natural dye.

“When I get impatient, the ceremony begins, usually with a beautiful sunset in the background,” she described. Smith then cuts the string holding the bundle together, rolls the bundle out and pulls back the leaves revealing the print. “As I clean up the mess, throw all the used leaves into a bucket, beauty in itself, I give it all back to nature.” The final step is ironing the following day. Smith said, “This is when even more of the beauty pops, another favorite part of it all. How could a form of art get any better than that?”

Harms of fast fashion

In regards to the current fast fashion culture of toxicity and cruel working conditions, Smith said, “It really tugs at my heart to see it, all the waste that is involved, the chemicals that are used and the conditions that people work in to create it all. Even the recycled plastic used for clothing makes no sense to me. Do you really want to wear plastic when you know of the chemical it emits, recycled or not?”

In their article “(Un)Sustainable transitions towards fast and ultra-fast fashion,” Tulin Dzhengiz, Teresa Haukkala and Olli Sahimaa explained, “Only textile dyeing and finishing are responsible for 20 percent of global water pollution, and 0.5 million tonnes of micro-plastics are released every year to the oceans due to washing clothes made of synthetic fibers.”

They continued, “The industry is also responsible for 10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.” The scholars explain clothing production has nearly doubled over the last 15 years.

According to the article, the clothing production industry includes “poor working conditions, [labor] rights, low wages, child labor and modern slavery.”

Student to master

At the start of her journey with this dyeing technique, Smith said she began trying different leaves on different fabrics. According to Smith, she was just getting fabrics that looked stained.

“My son was living in [New York City], and wanted me to come visit and pet sit his iguana while he traveled. I used this opportunity to sign up for

Above: Picture of Jill Smith experimenting with eco-printing.

Photo by Yui Leung. Graphics by Yichi Lu.

some natural dyeing workshops, but by this point, I was much more interested in the eco-print process, quickly becoming addicted.”

Smith said she bundled up some leaves along with fabric and mailed them to New York City.

“When I arrived, I was excited to see my son but even more [so] to open my mail,” Smith said jokingly. Smith said she was blown away by the beauty and clarity of these echo print bundles. Smith explained, “From then on, I could not go for a walk without wondering what each leaf I passed would do on fabric.”

Smith said the process of natural dying and echo printing is very meditative. “I’m just really grateful to have found a non-toxic art that I am truly passionate about and create a beautiful product to share with the world.” •

FA LL 2023 41

Valuable

POSSESSIONS BYUH students share their connection with their families through the most important pieces of clothing and jewelry they own

BY SHARINI SHANMUGANATHAN 42 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Kenneth Dadson posing and showing his kente.

Photos by Yui Leung.

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any people have a deep connection with certain pieces of clothing and jewelry, and BYU–Hawaii students said they are no exception. Despite being far from home, three students discussed how they express their identity through traditional fashion that is special to them. Kenneth Dadson, a sophomore majoring in information technology from Ghana, explained, “The fact that I get to represent my country and my culture [through my clothing] makes me stand out not only in Hawaii but also in BYUH.”

A handmade kente Dadson said his tribe, the Akan tribe in West Africa, has their own cloth material that is called “kente.” It comes in many colors, textures and designs, Dadson said. “African fashion is all about adding different colors and fusing patterns to different designs. [Then] you’re good to go wherever you go.”

Dadson said kente is only worn on important occasions such as weddings and is primarily worn by the bride and groom. He added, “The traditional way to wear it is with gold jewelry, beaded bracelets and matching sandals.”

There is significant meaning behind wearing kente, said Dadson. “This kente is handmade by my mom. When someone makes kente for you, it means you are very special to them and you have a part of them in you,” Dadson said.

FA LL 2023 43

A cherished tanguk Pamela Chiping, a sophomore from Malaysia majoring in business management, shared about her piece of jewelry called a “tanguk,” which has been passed down through the generations of her tribe. Chiping is part of the Iban people of indigenous to the state of Sarawak in East Malaysia. She said the tanguk, which is a beaded, hand-sewn necklace, reminds her of her tribe.

“Whenever I miss my family and my culture, I will look at it and think about how grateful I am to be Iban,” shared Chiping. She said people wear it to give things to the gods. In the olden days they used it as clothing to cover up their body, said Chiping. But nowadays, she said they use it on a special occasion like during the paddy festival or during Gawai Dayak, which is a festival celebrated by everyone in Sarawak.

Chiping said the tanguk is expensive and takes months to design as it has a lot of beadwork. “My tanguk is really special. It is sent down to the daughters from generation to generation, and I hope to give this to my future daughter someday,” said Chiping.

Left: Pamela Chiping in wearing her tanguk and an upclose photo of her tanguk to show its details.

Right: Chhaya Yadav in her mangalsutra and an upclose photo of her mangalsutra and traditional jewerly.

Photos by Yui Leung.

Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

44 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

A symbolic mangalsutra Chhaya Yadav, a sophomore from India majoring in social work, spoke about the significance of her mangalsutra, a necklace traditionally worn by married women in India.

She explained wearing a mangalsutra signifies a woman is married and that her husband is alive, representing a desire for his long life. “It is seen as a way to express love for one’s husband and to convey this commitment to society. In my culture it’s important to wear it at all times even when sick or sad,” said Yadav.

She said there are other traditional jewelry and attire customs in her culture, such as wearing bangles, bindis and sarees after marriage. These items hold cultural significance and are considered essential to represent a married woman, she said.

Yadav said she values her cultural traditions and even had her family shop for traditional attire for her wedding in India despite the fact that she was married in Hawaii.

“Everything my family sent me from India for my wedding is precious and valuable. My lehenga, which is my traditional wedding attire, and my jewelry are close to my heart.”

Yadav said her dreams and expectations for her wedding were inspired by movies and weddings she attended as a child and teenager. She said she was grateful for the unique experience she had including the exchange of garlands with her husband and playful interactions with friends during the wedding ceremony.

She said,“It was really hard not having my family around for my wedding. It felt incomplete without them, but with all the traditional attire and jewelry they sent me, I felt a huge part of them was with me on my wedding day and that was enough.” •

FA LL 2023 45

46 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

BY LINDA LAULU

BYUH freshman shares how she weaves tradition and trends into her journey from motherhood to fashion designer.

A fashion designer’s journey from tradition to trendsetting

Above: Wearing some of her fashions she created is Aigalesala Toelupe. Photos by Joseph Ariono. Graphics by Forrest Christensen.

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igalesala Toelupe, a freshman from American Samoa majoring in psychology, said she has come to realize her journey into the field of design was more than just a hobby. She said it was destiny waiting to be created in the material aspects of her life as she continued to pursue her interests, such as clothing design. She especially highlighed her most recent work. From her humble beginnings, Aigalesala Toelupe expressed her desire as a fashion designer has been a weaving of creativity, tenacity and an unwavering enthusiasm for fashion colors and styles to adorn the world.

She said she became interested in design because of her grandmother’s love of sewing.

“My grandmother designed and sewed a lot of my mom’s and aunt’s clothes for school, pageants and holidays, and I believe that love and passion for pageantry was passed down to me,” she said. She explained her grandmother Lusila, after whom she was named, taught her to be presentable no matter the occasion.

Aigalesala Toelupe said growing up, her mother and sisters were both involved

in pageants. “I was crowned Miss of my high school in Samoa, and then ran for Miss Hawaii Plus in 2022 and was crowned Miss Aloha Spirit,” Aigalesala Toelupe explained. “In this pageant, I designed some of my own outfits,” she continued. “Not everything turned out the way I wanted it to because it was sewn overseas and only arrived the night before the pageant, but I learned from the women in my life that what you wear is less important than how you wear it,” she noted.

Balancing motherhood, passion and dreams in fashion

Aigalesala Toelupe noted she has a specific resource she uses to guide her fashion designs and styles. However, she relied primarily on the environment around her from “everything around you; people, shows, nature, your occupation,” she added. Despite her lack of knowledge about the fashion industry, she said in order to gain knowledge, she enjoyed watching fashion shows. “I love watching fashion competition shows such as “Project Runway,” “Next in Fashion,” and even pageants

because it shows the process of creation that goes on behind the scenes of making beautiful clothing. It’s inspiring to see how other creators and designers make something fabulous out of nothing and anything.”

She spoke about some of her favorite fashion influencers, whom she follows on social media. She said, “Displaying and selling my prints and designs has benefited my life and family financially.” Looking back at her experiences, she said “I think that’s initially where I had my first spark of interest in fashion designing.”

“Going to a fashion school was a dream,” she said. Although it was always just a dream, she said it has now become her hobby. Aigalesala Toelupe said she believes she can seize the opportunity, adding, “It is still something I am thinking about doing as a business in the future.” She said balancing being a mother and a fashion designer was a true blessing in disguise. “As a mother, I realized it was easy to lose myself in motherhood and my kids inspired me to pursue my happiness,” she said.

FA LL 2023 47

Robert Toelupe, Aigalesala’s husband from American Samoa, said, “My wife is many things. To her family, she is a loving wife, mother, daughter, supportive sister and counselor,” he said. He described his wife as completely different and an active person in creating fashion. “When my wife is creating, she has a whole vibe that you can easily identify the passion she has for it, anywhere and on any platform whether it’s fashion, interior decorating, or even social media,” said Robert Toelupe.

“Her love for designing and creating just emanates from her very being,” he said.

As he observes his wife in their relationship, Robert Toelupe said he sees her as a naturalborn performer who enjoys all performing arts, including singing and dancing, which he believes is where her inspiration to create and design comes from. “My wife is the creator she is now because of her deep love and respect for all cultures, music and dance.”

Weaving traditions and trends in fashion design

Aigalesala Toelupe said she is fascinated by the designs she creates and she wants to ensure her creations are unique and one-of-akind, rather than imitations or copies of other designs. She noted she values originality and uniqueness in her work.

She said considering modern fashion industry trending styles, which she views through her social media fashion influence, had a great impact and contributed to her designs and products. She still wants to learn more, saying, “I definitely could spend more time in our school sewing room.” According to Aigalesala Toelupe, she has a variety of

48 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

different styles and designs that can be seen in her closet. She expressed she likes a range of colors but prefers vibrant colors.

Even though she is intrigued by Western fashion styles, she said, “Most of my creative styles are done with cultural wear.” She explained cultural wear and culture in general are unique statements in and of themselves.

She expressed her desire to integrate modern wear and cultural wear in the fashion industry.

Michelle Fanene, a customer of Aigalesala Toelupe, said her experience with the designer has amazing and recommended it to anyone who is interested after scoring it a 10 out of 10. “The owner, Aigalesala Toelupe, offered me a variety of options that are perfect for any and every occasion,” said Fanene. “I believe her sense and love for promoting fashion in this day and age were important for me personally because I had no idea how much fashion contributed to my mental health.”

Fanene said after only a few visits with her and being styled by her, she was already looking and feeling more confident in herself.

Aigalesala Toelupe expressed she enjoys fabric shopping because she spends a lot of time looking at different materials including textures, colors and prints. She said she visualizes how a fabric will look when choosing it, especially when designing a puletasi (a traditional Samoan outfit consisting of a top and a skirt) for herself or others.

She explained she does her own sketching, measuring and designing, as well as coordinating efforts with the tailor to assist in sewing out the material according to her specifications.

“Depending on the type of event I design for, whether casual or formal, I prefer to wear

formal attire,” said Aigalesala Toelupe.

She expressed starting a business as a fashion designer would undoubtedly have advantages and disadvantages. However, she said she enjoys what she does. “I honestly just design and wear what I like to wear and I love seeing other people do the same. If I ever start a fashion business, it would be out of passion rather than competition,” she said.

Puna Novian, one of Aigalesala Toelupe’s customers from Texas, said, “I had an amazing experience as a customer because it was fun and stress free in a way that I liked her style and her positivity in fashion designing.”

Novian said she had always been unsure of how to put outfits together, and Aigalesala Topelupe showed her ideas on pairing items and matching outfits. “I think her idea of using social media platforms is smart because the content is fun and relatable, and it is one of today’s generation’s main sources,” said Novian.

Aigalesala Toelupe said, “In 2023, at BYUH, I started my TikTok fashion journey, praying for guidance and I include #JesusInMyJourney in the hopes of inspiring others. I tried to be the best version of myself in everything I do.” Despite her own struggles, she said she has always served as an example to others and has experienced many blessings.

“I achieved my first collaboration with a plussize brand in July, kick-started my fashion Instagram, and hosted a successful live sale,” she said. She expressed gratitude to her family and friends, saying she would not have gotten as far as she had without their support.• The following are her platforms as a fashion designer:

Tiktok: @samoan.spice Instagram: @samoan.spice

FA LL 2023 49

Sunday Elegance 50 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

BYUH students share the fashion trends for Sundays in their home countries

BY DOROTHY TONGA SETTLE

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round the world, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints attend their church meetings every Sunday to remember their Savior.

BYU–Hawaii students from different countries shared how the different types of clothing they wear to church have different cultural meanings. They added how the unique parts of their Sunday clothes enhance their worship experience and are reminders of their family and community.

Colors at church Tina Chi, a senior majoring in TESOL from Hong Kong, offered insights into the vibrant fashions from her homeland. Chi explained how colors serve as symbols representing distinct groups within her community. She said the younger generation predominantly opts for understated hues, particularly favoring white attire.

Waga Bobu, a junior majoring in applied mathematics from Kiribati, said her country’s church fashion customs emphasize a particular color code. Bobu said the color white holds significance when it comes to church attire, symbolizing purity and cleanliness in Kiribati.

She said, “White represents a lot of qualities, and I take joy in dressing in white for church.”

Accessories and identity Chi said different stages of life affect people’s clothing choices at church.

“Adolescence marks the period when

individuals are first introduced to the world of fashion, allowing them to experiment and discover their unique personal styles,” she said. In contrast, she said young adults are drawn to the allure of floral patterns and dresses, reflecting a stage in life when they are actively seeking romantic partners and aiming to make a lasting impression.

Meanwhile, the more mature members of the congregation prefer formal and professional attire when attending church, Chi said, signifying a sense of maturity and groundedness.

Nelson Tonga, a sophomore majoring in information technology from Tonga, shared the distinctive expectations shaping church attire in his homeland. Tonga said the norm for men in Tonga is to wear white shirts when attending church services. However, he explained the unique character of Tongan church fashion extends beyond color choices.

He said men traditionally wear the tupenu, a form of a men’s skirt, adorned with the ta’ovala cinched around their waist. The ta’ovala is an emblem of Tongan culture serving as a profound symbol of respect, he said. He added the ta’ovala is crafted from woven mats derived from an variety of indigenous plant.

In a similar way, Tonga said, women in Tonga show reverence by wearing the kiekie around their waist. He said the kiekie is an accessory crafted from patterned weavings made of tapa cloths, mats or coconut husks, all adorned with unique Tongan designs. Wearing the kiekie signifies a profound respect for higher authorities and traditions within their culture, said Tonga.

Left: Tina Chi poses with friends from her congregation in Hong Kong.

Photo provided by Chi. Graphics by: Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

Below: Chi smiles while modeling common church fashions for young people in Hong Kong.

FA LL 2023 51

Photos by Joseph Louis.

Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

52 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Kiribati’s church fashion incorporates culturally symbolic patterns, said Bobu. These sewn patterns typically embellish the upper front part of dresses and shirts, adding a unique touch to their church attire, she said. Bobu added, “We have the freedom to choose any fabric material that resonates with us and some individuals even incorporate their names into the patterns.” This cultural significance woven into Bobu’s church attire evokes a deep sense of connection to her homeland of Kiribati even when she’s far from home, Bobu said. These garments are not merely pieces of cloth, but are important reminders of her family and the lively community in her island, she said.

Chi also spoke about how the trend of accessorizing with branded purses and bags has gained momentum within members’ fashion culture in Hong Kong. She said they have become universal and must-have accessories to add an extra layer of style and sophistication to different outfits. She added the significance of closed-toe shoes, even for women, as an integral aspect of dressing for church in her culture. •

Left: Nelson Tonga shows the Tongan tupenu and ta’ovala and Ada Eves models the kiekie.

Above from left to right: Tonga, Waga Bobu and Gordon Sila wear the cultural clothing they attend church in.

Photos by Camille Jovenes.

Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

Photos by Joseph Louis.

Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

FA LL 2023 53

R TH I F t i N G

10 1

BYUH students and a shop owner share how they got into thrifting and their experiences

BY KARL ALDRE MARQUEZ

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ccording to Goodfair’s website, the concept of thrift dates back to the early 19th century when religious organizations and charities gathered second-hand clothes and sold them to raise funds for different causes.

Moreover, the website said it was not until the Great Depression occurred in the 1930s that thrift shopping gained widespread popularity in many countries.

Precious Paula Maguale, a sophomore majoring in marketing from the Philippines, said, “I got into thrifting because I get to find items that are unique, vintage and very cheap. It was also a form of bonding between my friends and siblings whenever we dressed up in our thrifted clothes.”

Personal expression through thrifting Maguale said she got into thrifting because there were limited department stores in her area but a lot of small pop-up markets and thrift stores around her neighborhood.

“Because of limited resources, my older sisters and I went to different pop-ups and markets to see what they offer. Little by little, we fell in love with things that we found and repeated.

“I have a lot of unique finds from thrift stores that led me to have different dress 54 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

patterns or aesthetics whenever I pick and choose what to wear. This is a big factor because I have so much to choose from depending on my mood,” Maguale said.

Kris Kositwongsakul, a community member from Laie and owner of The Stand, a pop-up store, said he grew up in a thrifty household. He said his family was his biggest influence because it saves money for something more important than clothes. “Because of my upbringing, I carried the same tradition that my family had with my family now where I bring my kids and wife often to thrift stores,” he said.

Marvel Jacob Ariono, a freshman majoring in biology from Indonesia, said he discovered the world of thrifting back in high school after seeing the majority of his classmates wear nice and unique hoodies. “Aside from finding cheap clothes, I was able to make friends while I was thrifting. From then on, I went to different stalls and places with my friends,” he said.

Profit from pre-loved items Kositwongsakul said he started selling thrifted clothes around the start of the pandemic.

He said he has been a full-time high school teacher for 15 years and selling thrifted items was his side hustle. He said influences in social media like Instagram and YouTube made him

resell thrifted goods. “Since I am already into clothes, fashion and thrift shopping, it made me want to hop on the trend and try it as my side hustle,” he said.

“It was a cool experience,” Kositwongsakul said. He said from the moment he bought a vintage USMC (United States Marine Corps) sweater for $4 and sold it for $20, he started rolling and continued his love for thrifting that he now combines with reselling.

“Besides regular and branded clothes, I look for vintage pieces like shirts, hats, pants, hoodies, jackets and anything that I could make a profit from,” he said.

Kositwongsakul said he follows online trends and sees what the current style is and tries to find these items in thrift stores or from other resellers before selling them at a lower price than the current trend market price.

“A lot of times there are similar items I get at an affordable price, rather than relying on what other sellers are selling them for, I make an average and decide on a price. I normally charge low, but still make a profit with some of my items so that I can get previous customers to come and buy more,” he said.

Stretching your dollars Maguale said besides the limited stores in her neighborhood she also loved thrifting because of how cheap it was. She said the normal price of good quality clothes ranges from 15 to 200 Philippine pesos, which is around 30 cents to 4 U.S. dollars. “There are a variety of choices whenever I go to our local thrift stores and markets. If you are lucky enough, you can find branded clothes that look brand new,” she said.

The Stand pop-up at BYUH’s Aloha Friday farmer’s market. Stickers at their stand (left) and their line-up of jeans (right) Photos by Camille Jovenes. Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

FA LL 2023 55

Kositwongsakul said he stretches his income by reselling what he thinks is profitable to people. “There are things that we find at thrift stores that we use at home, like home decorations, a couple of household items and my kid’s Xbox,” he said.

Ariono said back in Indonesia, anything below 2,000 Rupia (less than 1 U.S. dollar) is considered cheap in their local thrift store.

Because of how cheap it is, he said he was able to purchase items that he likes and clothes that he can wear to church, school, dates and anywhere he goes.

Future of thrifting Maguale said, “Finding out that millions of clothes get discarded each year because of fast fashion makes me contribute to sustainability.” She said thrifting can give a second chance to pre-loved and still usable clothes while reducing the waste and carbon footprint associated with manufacturing “trendy” fast fashion clothing.

Marvel Ariono posing in his thrifted clothing.

Photos by Joseph Ariono.

56 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Precious Paula Maguale displaying her different thrifted styles.

Photos courtesy of Precious Paula Maguale.

Kositwongsakul said the problem now with most thrift stores is they charge insurmountable prices on second-hand pieces.

“Because of the trend, companies are now marking high prices for notable items like shirts, artifacts, jewelry and more. If the prices continue to go up, it would be difficult to keep up with the current market,” he said.

Maguale said thrifting is also budget friendly. She said if people are into fashion, it is the best way to find clothes and other useful things. She said that most items in-store are still useful and sustainable and can be “trendy” for a long time. •

FA LL 2023 57

Decades of trends

BYUH students share their thoughts on the evolution of makeup trends and people’s preferences

BY CJ SHINIHAH NOTARTE 58 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

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akeup has been part of the world since 6,000 B.C.E., starting with the Egyptians, who believed makeup to be next to godliness for both men and women, says information from Halifax Public Libraries. Makeup has greatly evolved since then, as BYU–Hawaii student Liahona Moleni pointed out, “Creativity has definitely manifested itself in different ways since then.” The diversity of colors used now are more vibrant than they were before, said Moleni, a senior from Utah majoring in social work. She described the colors used in previous decades as “more calm and mild.”

Makeup is also now better formulated, according to Namuunjargal Tuvshinsaikan, a freshman from Mongolia majoring in communications. She said, “Makeup today is healthier than before. In the past, there were makeup ingredients that were harmful to our bodies.”

When someone expresses themselves through makeup, Moleni shared, it’s a beautiful thing.

“Expressing yourself is a brave thing to do,” she explained.

Moleni also said wearing makeup allows her to feel confident and motivated. She said, “When I do something special that day, I feel confident.” She added, “I feel like if I did my makeup today, might as well see everyone and do everything.”

Tuvshinsaikan explained how makeup makes her feel, saying, “While doing my makeup, I feel happy and confident, but sometimes, it looks bad when I feel bad.” She said how her emotions reflect how her makeup turns out.

Remanda Hapairai, a sophomore from Tahiti majoring in psychology, said, “One makeup style I really like is the natural makeup that enhances the beauty of a person.” She shared her love for bridal looks and how simple they are because they only take a little bit of makeup. She also said while makeup is not really a priority to her, when she wears it, she loves it. •

is f l e rs u o y .” ng o i s d s e o r “Exp e thing t v i a n r e l b o a M a n o -Liah

Left above and right: Liahona Moleni shows how her makeup expresses who she is.

Left below: Ayasha Foster poses for the camera.

Photos by Camille Jovenes.

Graphics by Yichi Lu.

FA LL 2023 59

up e k a M h g u o thr s e d a c e the d

go. Lemon the way to s a r w l ra u at hieve faire Pale and n tonic to ac e c fa ir a e s th a r sed e fo juice was u ots of roug p ll a sm u e d mak p en ha o-makeup n skin. Wom e h T s. k e nd che eyes, lips a trend. look was a

Dark-defined lashes were both a need and a want. Every woman felt good when they have all the makeup they desire in the palm of their hands. Kohl was used to achieve a daring look.

Eyebrows were plucked and the cupid’s bow of the lips was defined.

1920-1929

With the rise of the movie stars and their influence, pencil-thin eyebrows with a combination of bright eye shadows, fuller lipsticks and more defined eyelashes were the trend.

1930-1939

9 1 9 1 0 0 19 ian era Edward

Flapper era

Hollywood era

Women outlined the outs a fuller ide of th look. Th eir lips t e y wore re and used o achiev d or ora Vaseline e nge-red to make consider lipstick it look g ed essen lossy. Th tial durin were en is was g World courage W ar II. Wo d t o send le kisses to men tters full soldiers for mot o f li p s tick ivation. thicker Eyebrow compare s were d to the 1930s.

1940-1 949 Redde r tha era

n red

Above: Alyssa Charisse Dominguez frames her face and her makeup with her hands.

Below: Ayasha Foster models the red lips and thick eyebrows of the 1940s.

Sources: Glamourdaze.com, Sugarcosmetic.com, Journalistic.org,.

60 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

A thick, creamy foundation plus a natural-colored setting powder was the thing. Pink was the favorite color as opposed to red. Eyeshadows and lashes were now subtle and the winged eyeliner effect become popular.

1950-1959 Mask effect era

. The cade ed e d e f th ticat rds o e sophis ighly o w the oh k lik were ed to loo makeup t ow y s s a l ad g and c is era aim ontourin ar eye sh one h s o l h P c t u d used en of alay, an e pop wom ses. They eyes. Th te and gr nd natur a i r s i e h r e e, w eline princ hasize th w blu ithout ey o n emp e r s. s we day w k lip color slay the king, pin not loo could

9 6 9 0-1 ra

e n o 196 d Lon

Above: Namuunjargal Tuvshinsaikan poses serenely for the camera.

Below: Kimber Goth shows off pinkish eyeshadow and full eyelashes.

Photos by Camille Jovenes.

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CREATING CONNECTIONS THROUGH SEWING BYUH missionaries and student shares how sewing can enrich lives while learning basic skills

BY CJ SHINIHAH NOTARTE 62 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

A

side from creating clothes, sewing also creates family connections, life lessons and gives satisfaction, said Sister Diane Wilde, a senior missionary from Provo, Utah, who works at BYU–Hawaii’s Sewing Center.

Satisfaction in sewing

Wilde said the satisfaction of creating something is very rewarding. “If you do it right, then it looks good. If you don’t, you could be sloppy and just let it go. But in the end, it is better to take it out and fix it.”

Continuing, she related sewing to repentance. “It’s not fun, but in the end, you get a much better product if you’re careful and [when] you take out the mistakes. … If you solve the problem, then it is rewarding.”

Ualani Mo’o, the Ho’okahua business manager at the Aloha Center, said, “I am not an expert, but I do enjoy it. I like it when I accomplish something.” She explained sewing was a big learning curve for her because she often struggled to get it right.

Mo’o said, “It is fun when you get something done.” She shared how she feels so much satisfaction when she goes through the process of finishing a project. She expressed how happy she feels when she sees the final product of her efforts and she gets to wear it.

Getting started

For a long time, Wilde said her mother and grandmother sewed for their family, and she began sewing during her junior year in high school. “I have sewn for my family but not as much as my mother did. I have been sewing most of my life and it is a wonderful skill even if all I do is mend clothes.”

Wilde explained she prefers making clothes, saying, “Fixing them can get a little tricky. Starting fresh is easier, but on the other side of life, you often need to fix clothes.” She added ometimes some pieces look bad, and it looks like there may be no way of fixing them.

But she added, “usually there is [always] something that you can do about it.”

Frank “Frankie” Aga, a junior majoring in political science from Guam and Hawaii, explained why he enrolled in the sewing class.

“I want to learn how to make clothes for my family and myself for pleasure.” He shared his plans to start a clothing business. He said, “I want to own a business mainly with aloha shirts or aloha attire that a lot of people can identify with.”

Aga shared his experience about attending the sewing class on campus. “This is my first time. I own a sewing machine. It was a gift, but I never had the chance to use it. It is frustrating to figure it out on my own.” Aga expressed his frustration about his hands and his mind not being made for sewing. He said when he started, he thought it would all be easy. “I thought this was just going to be a breeze, and I will be sewing away like some kind of fashionista making couture clothing.”

He continued, “For me I am just trying to learn the basics.”

Finding pleasure in sewing

One of the pieces Wilde said she created was her own wedding dress. “It was not a fancy one, but I made it that way so I can use it as a temple dress.” She explained along with this and its other uses, sewing can enrich one’s life.

Mo’o said her favorite piece she made was the jumpsuit for her daughter when she was young. “I made her a blouse with a collar and that was kind of hard because you have to piece it all together, but it turned out cute,” Mo’o said. She also shared how she created modest prom dresses and little shrugs for her daughter and her friends. She expressed, “I feel happy making it for them. I feel happy when they ask me to do something for them and be able to share that talent with them.”

Wilde said the best thing about serving in the Sewing Center is the connection she creates with the students. She said she hopes students will take advantage of the Sewing Center. “I think it is important the students know the Sewing Center is there, and it is available to them.” She assured students don’t need to know how to do anything when they visit the center because the senior missionaries will be there to assist them. •

Sister Tam and Sister Wilde work in the BYUH Sewing Center.

Photos by Camille Jovenes.

Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

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and confidence in our bodies BYUH students share how they use fashion to express love and appreciation for their bodies

BY CHENOA FRANCIS

Anaïs Fry, Jane Kanchana Udomtawee (top right) and Elena Vallejo (bottom right) showing their fashion styles and body positivity.

Photo by Enkhtuvshin Chimee (TJ).

64 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

“My body is not but m an or y bod name y is a -Valle nt n inst jo rume nt.”

T

he way to represent and express oneself. identity, the way we show ourselves to others.”

Self-empowerment and confidence. These She noted how fashion can bring about body are the common insights BYUH students image positivity. “When we dress in a way that shared on what fashion is and its impact in feels authentic to ourselves, [fashion] helps us their life and society. accept our bodies more.”

Anaïs Fry, a senior from Massachusetts What is fashion? majoring in social work, said fashion to her is Intercultural peacebuilding major Elena “When you put together different accessories Vallejo, a senior from Utah, said, “To me, and clothing in a way that expresses yourself.” fashion is the way that we choose to present Fry said fashion impacts self-image because ourselves. The way we want to be perceived it “determines if you feel confident or selfby people. I feel like we use clothes and our empowered. If you are to use fashion in the accessories to identify with groups, music right way, it can increase your self-image.” genres, cultural, sexuality or even political “I think fashion is confidence in what you groups. Our clothing is associated with our are wearing. It is something that gives us a FA LL 2023 65

sense of ourselves and helps us feel ourselves,” said Jane Kanchana Udomtawee, a junior majoring in elementary education from Thailand. She shared her thoughts on how fashion can help with our self-image, “I think for the first impression, people always look at what you are wearing and through your fashion. I think it expresses yourself and your personality.”

Society, culture and media in fashion and body image

Fry noted, “Societal expectations and standards on what the perfect body is unrealistic. So it has been a process to not compare myself to that and to accept myself for who I am. I want to work on being healthier, but I do not want to do it for just that reason, I want the right mindset.”

Fry said, “Society’s expectations on how each person’s body should look are very unrealistic because everyone is so different in so many ways and that is what makes us beautiful. But it is so harmful to have the idea that everyone should look that specific way.” She added how gender norms in fashion are also an issue, with what is considered masculine or feminine clothes and expecting people to fit into categories instead of wearing whatever they feel like.

In Udomtawee’s culture, she said body type plays a huge role in the fashion industry.

Udomtawee shared her experience growing up: “When I was in high school, in my culture, we have this idea that if you are bigger you couldn’t wear this, you couldn’t wear that.

You couldn’t wear what was tight on you. So, I always felt insecure when I wore something form-fitting because I thought they would judge me.”

She said back at home, people expected her to wear certain clothing even if she did not like it because it was what fit her “body type.”

Another issue in the fashion industry in Asian culture Udomtawee explained is how darker-skinned Asians were advised to not wear brighter color, because in their culture, bright colors do not look good on darkerskinned types.

Vallejo said she believes society and mainstream culture are not very helpful with body image. “Frequently, we were shown one type of body and this idea of an ideal body shape, body type. I feel like Eurocentric features are so prevalent in what we believe is 66 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

beautiful or what we should aim for. And I feel that is reflected in fashion as well, so I feel like it can be harmful to people’s body images.”

Vallejo noted how representation is getting better with types of people and fashion.

However, she said she thinks there is still much to do and more work towards inclusivity.

Body image and its struggles

“I think sometimes we limit the way we dress because we don’t have confidence.

Sometimes we [observe] other ways people dress and we [judge and limit] ourselves because we believe our body does not fit well with the style. And I think it lowers your confidence,” Udomtawee stated.

She shared how she dreaded shopping because of what was offered in stores and the judgments she would receive. “I feel like what I struggled with the most was shopping.

Sometimes, I would go to the clothes shop and be too shy to try on clothing, so I would ask my friend because I was afraid of someone judging me. I was afraid that they would come up to me and say it didn’t look good on me or it was too small for me,” Udomtawee said. She said how people’s opinions on what fashion is supposed to be affects other people and the best thing for her was to just let their expectations go.

Vallejo, sharing her experience of body image, stated, “When I was younger, I struggled with body image and the way I felt about my body. I used clothes as a way to hide myself rather than using clothes as a form of expression. I had these feelings of myself where I was ashamed of my body, I felt like I needed to hide it.” She said she wore very loose-fitted clothing not because she enjoyed wearing it but because she felt like it hid her body since she felt like she was taught to hide her body.

Udomtawee said there is an emphasis on modesty growing up in the church [The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints] and that it played a negative role in her body image.

Vallejo said, “There’s nothing wrong with modesty and you wanting it for yourself. But I think when it is pushed onto other people, especially to women and little girls, that they need to hide parts of their body because it is wrong, I feel like it creates these ideas of being ashamed of our bodies. And now we aren’t covering our bodies to empower ourselves,

but we are doing it because we feel ashamed of them.”

Fry talked about some struggles she faced in the fashion industry, which included “just finding clothes that fit the right way because sometimes, with jeans it might fit right in most places but be too loose around the waist or something. It is hard to find clothes that cater to different body types. I struggle with finding something more flattering or fitting,” she said.

Fry added shopping can be hard on a person's mentality, she said, when clothes “are made in a very specific way. So if you do not fit into that, it definitely affects how you feel. Also, sizing it could be another hard experience, especially when you start comparing sizes.”

Growing past body issues

Udomtawee shared how fashion makes her feel beautiful, “I like to wear white now and some earth tones. These colors give me lots of confidence…It’s simple yet feminine.”

She said her fashion describes parts of herself and how wearing white and dressing simply makes her feel feminine. Meanwhile, she said other styles make her feel beautiful and others show her fun side.

She said it is important for people to wear what would make them feel beautiful and what would motivate them to have a beautiful day. “Wear what feels comfortable to you.

Fashion can help us love our bodies when we dress in what feels comfortable for us, says Elena Vallejo.

Photo by Enkhtuvshin Chimee (TJ).

is always scary, but I feel like being true to yourself is always worth it… . It’s empowering. People should feel empowered in the clothes they wear.”

Vallejo said she still struggles with negative body thoughts, but she reminds herself to switch the narrative from appearance being a woman’s best quality to thinking of all the wondrous things her body can do. “My body gets me to school every morning… It helps me connect with people through touch like holding someone’s hand or hugging them. Our bodies are so much more than the way they look. I think remembering that when I am feeling upset with the way my body looks helps me put into perspective that my body wasn’t made to look good every single day… My body is not an ornament but my body is an instrument.” •

Whether it is through a dress, baggy clothing, skirts and more,” Udomtawee exclaimed.

She said it is important to wear what makes you feel beautiful. “It’s important because it can show how much you love yourself. It’s your body and your mind. It’s just you, so it’s important to wear something that makes you happy.” She added how worrying about people judging will not create happiness but instead disrupt it, and if a person continue to focus on judgments, it can impact their mental health, “so free your mind and worry less.”

Fry remarked how fashion can uplift body image “when it is clothing that you feel confident in, it can help with your attitude and mentality and it will help you feel better throughout the day.”

She shared what makes her feel beautiful depends on the day and the vibe she is going for. “Usually, I like to wear baggy clothing or cargo pants. It makes me feel better about myself. If I was wearing something that I didn’t feel beautiful in, I would probably be thinking about it too much that it might get in the way of other things.”

Vallejo said she feels most beautiful in outfits that make her feel like her. “Sometimes I wanna be really cute or cool or mysterious or really comfy. I feel like I have different feelings day-by-day so I dress to express those feelings

“Society’s expectations on how each person’s body should look are very unrealistic because everyone is so different in so many ways and that is what makes us beautiful. But it is so harmful to have the idea that everyone should look that specific way.”

-Fry of those different sides of me. Whether it is more feminine or more masculine, I feel the most beautiful when I feel the most like me.

When I feel like I am showing people who I am and being more authentic to myself.

And I really like that you can do that through clothing.

“I think it is really important for people to dress in a way that makes them feel like themselves. I feel like it is vulnerable sometimes, whether it is because it isn’t as accepted or isn’t as popular. Being vulnerable

Anaïs Fry (top left) and Jane Kanchana Udomtawee (right) posing comfortably for the camera.

Photos by Enkhtuvshin Chimee (TJ).

Graphics by Yichi Lu. FA LL 2023 67

The Journey of

J-SLIPS

J-Slips Hawaii CEO Martha Christensen, sat down in an interview with the Ke Alaka’i to share how her business has grown and developed BY: LINDA LAULU, EMELIA MIKE AND LISI TIAFAU

J-Slips were the brainchild of Martha Christensen and her family.

Photo by Yui Leung. Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

68 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

M

artha Christensen, CEO of the footwear company J-Slips, BYUH alumna and former academic advisor in the Faculty of Business & Government, explained her inspiration behind J-Slips. “I did major in business but had never done a business or anything, and I’d always wanted to do something.” She said her entrepreneurial spirit was driven by an eye for marketable products and a desire to start a business venture. She and her family now run a footwear shop in Laie specializing in Hawaiian-style sandals, which she said they have dubbed J-Slips.

Christensen recounted moments when her family would brainstorm ideas, sharing, “I just have this brain, and whenever I see something, I was like, ‘Oh, that’s really cool. I should sell it. We should do that.’” Christensen said her entrepreneurial mindset was coupled with a passion for finding quality products at reasonable prices. She said, “I’m a really good shopper. I know where to buy what and how much it should cost.” This gift came from outfitting her six children affordably in Hawaii, she said.

Christensen said her background in academic advising exposed her to budding entrepreneurs seeking advice on their product ideas. She said she gave advice based on her knack for knowing what people like to buy.

According to her, this penchant for identifying marketable products led her to explore various avenues, like selling Hawaiian jewelry and chocolate-covered macadamia nuts on Amazon. She recalled, “I didn’t even know what I was going to sell on Amazon, but I would just watch videos and read articles about how to sell on Amazon.”

It was not until her son, Josh, suggested selling sandals that J-Slips found its unique niche, said Christensen. She said she observed a void in brand recognition within the sandal market, stating, “Nobody knew what brand was what... Nobody had a brand favorite.”

This realization, Christensen said, sparked a newfound ambition to establish her family’s own brand in the industry.

In 2015, Christensen said J-Slips ventured into selling established brands, which laid the foundation for their future success. By 2016, she said they had decided to create their own brand. After eight months of diligent work, she said the first shipment of J-Slips sandals arrived in August of 2016, marking a significant milestone in her family’s entrepreneurial journey.

Martha Christensen says her time in academic advising led her to explore various business ventures..

Photos by Joseph Ariono.

How J-Slips found its name

Christensen said her family opted for the name “J-Slips” due to the common association of Hawaiian-type of sandal with the sandals Jesus wore. She said they wanted to pay respect without directly using Jesus’ name, so they settled for the letter “J.” She also said in Hawaii, sandals, flip-flops and casual footwear are often referred to as “slippers.” This local terminology solidified the name “J-Slips” for their sandal company.

Crafting J-Slips

Christensen unraveled the composition of their signature sandals, explaining they use large metal molds which they fill with PVC rubber pellets, which are a type of poly material or plastic. The material is then heated and shaped before moving along the conveyor belt. Christensen said her and her daughter personally visited the factory in China where the J-Slips are made, which was instrumental

in solidifying their brand identity and sourcing the highest quality materials for J-Slips.

Navigating challenges

Christensen also talked about the challenges they faced during the company’s start, including numerous communication issues. She said her two sons, Adam and Josh, were integral in the business venture. She said her collaboration with her sons helped them navigate through challenges.

She added how one significant obstacle was the minimum order quantity requirement set by manufacturers. She explained, “They wanted us to buy 12,000 pairs, so it’s kind of a big investment.” She said this demand was a substantial commitment, especially at the early stages of their business.

FA LL 2023 69

Christensen said a BYUH student from China played a big role in helping them overcome this challenge. She explained, “Irene came to my office one day when I was an academic advisor. I told her about our problems and she asked for the factory’s phone number… In just five minutes, she spoke with them in Chinese and it made a huge difference.

She got the minimum order quantity lowered and even negotiated a better price for us.” She said Irene still helps them with shipping.

Sourcing the specific type of sandals they wanted proved to be another challenge, Christensen said. “We couldn’t find a factory that made the sandals.” Suppliers kept offering different types of sandals like flip-flops, she said, but her son Josh did not give up and eventually found a factory that made the sandals they were looking for.

Quality at affordable prices

Christensen emphasized the durability of their sandals, saying, “They do wear out, but they last a lot better than other brands. I’ll say that.” She explained J-Slips are affordably priced, and even with regular use, J-Slips maintain their durability.

Christensen said J-Slips provides many different colors, with the most popular being “coconut,” which is medium brown, and “lava rock,” which is black. Neutral tones tend to be the favored choice among customers, she said.

In J-Slips’ collaboration with Walmart in Hawaii, Christensen explained, “We have nine stores that we sell to in Hawaii. They already have a brand that has black and brown. So [Walmart] said ‘We don’t want your black and brown. We want the pastel ones.’” She said this led them to offer unique colors, like pink plumeria, ocean blue and seashell white, to cater to Walmart’s preferences.

70 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Christensen said J-Slips has recently expanded into men’s footwear. She explained, “Just recently, I delivered our first men’s order to Walmart, and I met with the Walmart buyer, so they are now our biggest vendor on Oahu and in Hawaii.”

Christensen emphasized how the J-Slips company is her family’s way of bringing quality, one-of-a-kind sandals to everyone at an affordable price. According to her, their success comes from really understanding their customers’ needs and delivering on them.

About the CEO

Christensen arrived at BYU-H in 1985 and was a member of the tennis team. In the middle of college, she left to serve in the Fiji Suva Mission. She returned in 1990 to complete her education and got married that same year.•

Photos by Yui Leung.

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WEAVING STORIES THROUGH PATTERNS Siaganoa Tupai is an BYUH alumna who says patterns in clothnig tells stories.

Photos by Joseph Ariono. Graphics by Forrest Christensen.

BYUH students express how patterns can be expressions of culture, family and personal preferences

BY LINDA LAULU

F

or Siaganoa Tupai, clothing patterns have been a bridge between cultures, a canvas for personal expression and a touchstone to her roots. Tupai, an alumna from Samoa who majored in anthropology and cultural sustainability, said, “I believe patterns tell a story. People use these patterns to express their status, values, and standards within their own society.”

She said as a Polynesian, symbols, motifs and designs carry historical and cultural weight for her. These patterns are then adapted and woven into modern designs, she explained. Wearing cultural patterns is a powerful connection to her Samoan heritage and is a source of pride, love and respect, Tupai said. She added these patterns must be safeguarded for 72 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

future generations. According to Tupai, clothing patterns are not just fabric, but an embodiment of creativity and a way to present cultural identities to the global community.

Sister Alpha Harper, a service missionary from Canada who works at BYU–Hawaii’s Sewing Center, agreed, explaining patterns are a recognition of who people are, where they are from and what they do.

While Harper said she does not have a cultural heritage that uses specific special or sacred patterns, she explained.

“Working in the Sewing Center has helped me develop an appreciation for the many cultures and their way of identifying who they are and what they stand for by the

clothes that they wear.” She explained for many cultures, there is a history behind the patterns that are intricately worked into the fabric.

Ofa Tahitua, a sophomore majoring in political science from Tonga, said the patterns from her Tongan heritage remind her of her grandmother. The patterns are more than just adornments, she said.

Tahitua said they are cherished tokens of a familial bond that has spanned generations.

Everyone should try wearing patterns because they can evoke memories and connect people to their cultural roots, she said. “They carry a legacy of culture, a thread that binds generations together.”

According to Kristy Brodien, a sophomore majoring in TESOL from Tahiti,

Above: Sophomore Kristy Brodien said patterns help her respect her Tahitian culture. Right: Sister Alpha Harper holds a tie-dyed shirt in the Sewing Center.

patterns are a form of communication and provide her a means to respect her heritage. She said patterns allow her to pay homage to her ancestry and honor her cultural traditions.

Personal pattern preferences Tupai said she has an affinity for floral patterns, which stems from a deep appreciation of nature’s beauty and elegance, she said. Tupai said she also finds herself drawn to trendy tie-dye patterns and is captivated by their vibrant hues.

Harper said, “I like smaller, colorful and more intricate prints than large Polynesian prints.” She said she found it really different to have so many colorful flowers and plants on clothing when she came to BYUH, but she has “come to appreciate the beauty in it.”

Brodien said some of her favorites are cultural patterns from her Tahitian heritage. “I think it represents the mixture between the Polynesian designs and the modern aspect of Tahitian clothing fashion,” she said. She explained the fusion of these

designs and patterns sparked her interest in fashion.

Tahitua discussed the evolving nature of patterns in fashion. She said patterns remain relevant through a keen awareness of trends, customer preferences and cultural influences. “Fashion is a dynamic industry that continually evolves to offer fresh and exciting patterns to consumers,” she explained.

Choosing what to wear While Tupai said she had limited exposure to the world of fashion while growing up in Samoa, her move to Hawaii ignited her interest in different styles and materials. “I buy from different online stores. I love trying out different styles of clothing, not just Polynesian wear. I also love trying out modern patterns on clothing styles,” she said.

Tupai said she is fascinated by how new patterns can shape the designs of clothes and leans toward budget-friendly options. “Many people use pattern creation as an artistic outlet, weaving their stories

and interests into their designs … I could see myself trying this as well,” she said.

Brodien said patterns are artistic designs that add uniqueness to clothing. “I think they make the outfits look interesting and give them a unique style. I really like patterns because they let me express myself through what I wear.” By carefully selecting designs and considering color combinations, Brodien said she crafts outfits that reflect her individuality. Her love for patterns and individuality comes from her mother, who she said is a gifted dressmaker. “[My mother] makes dresses for us using her personal creativity and Tahitian patterns,” she said.

Harper said her mother remade some of her clothing when she was young, as her family had a tight budget. She said she also often received hand-me-downs from her sisters. “I began to learn quite young what I did and didn’t like to wear, so I began to look at clothing a little differently,” she said. Harper shared her clothing choices saying, “I like to wear clothes that make me smile before I head out for the day.” • FA LL 2023 73

Clothing confessions: Exploring your fashion arsenal After a survey conducted around campus, BYUH students and an alumnus share what’s in their closet

BY KARL ALDRE MARQUEZ

E

rrol Qaqa, an alumnus from Fiji, said most of the clothes in his closet are workout clothes and aloha wear. He said his inspiration for his outfit is enjoyment of sports, working out and being active. “I have a big personality and smile that I always love to share with people, just like the vision of the Polynesian Cultural Center, ‘To spread aloha around the world.’ Don’t worry about society’s version of fashion. If you have your own style and top it with confidence, that outfit can outshine any clothing on this earth,” he said.

Ray Chan, a junior majoring in business management from Hong Kong, said a large part of his closet is occupied by hoodies, sweaters, polo shirts, T-shirts and jackets.

He said he has a vast collection of branded clothing he has curated over time. His outfit inspirations came from the feelings surrounding him and from a rapper, A$AP Rocky, said Chan.

Mac John Ritual Arao, from the Philippines and a freshman majoring in hospitality and tourism management, said his collection of clothes varies and is styled differently every time he wears them. He said he owns polos, leather pants, jogger pants, denim pants, hoodies, shirts, accessories and a lot more. His inspiration for outfits came from models of different designer brands, he said.

Growing up, he had been watching fashion shows and fashion weeks to pattern his outfit styles, he said.

Amelia Tamara, a junior majoring in communications from Indonesia, said her closet consists mostly of shirts that are comfortable to wear. She said her fits are anything she can wear and feel cozy throughout the day.

According to Isabel Contreras-Spencer, a sophomore majoring in political science and government from Michigan, said most clothes in her closet are thrifted shirts and Latina-inspired dresses. “I thrift clothes because I like to wear unique items around campus and I wear dresses to showcase my Latina heritage,” she said. •

What is the majority of clothes in your closet?

4%

9%

4% Shirt Sweaters

10%

50%

Shorts Yoga Pants

16%

Dress

7%

Jackets

A quick survey was conducted and out of 100 BYUH students, these were the majority of clothes in their closet.

74 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

Pants

“I thrift clothes because I like to wear unique items around campus and I wear dresses to showcase my Latina heritage,” Isabel Contreras-Spencer

Isabel Contreras- Spencer in front of the Aloha Center.

Photos by Yui Leung. Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

FA LL 2023 75

“My inspiration for my fits are models from different brands. I’ve grown up watching fashion shows or fashion weeks in different kind of brands like channel,Louie Vuitton, Dolce and Gabbana, etc.”

Mac John Ritual Arao

Mac John Ritual Arao walks and poses by the Aloha Center ballroom.

Photos by Joseph Ariono. Graphics by Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

76 KE AL AK A‘I 2023

that s e h t o l c t f i r h t “I ozy” makes me feel c Amelia Tamara

Amelia Tamara posing by a wall.

Photos by Joseph Ariono.

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m positive a “I , id a s ia u T Ocean rand will be b g in th lo c y m that t as long as I is x e l il w d n a e fin elf, my family s y m to e u tr y sta ht now, I feel and to God. Rig owing that n k lm a c d n a e positiv erything will v e t, r a p y m o d if I per place.” fall into its pro

said, “I feel like with do ga al S a ci ar G da ry F through a phase where es go ne yo er ev , ir ha y curl e they do not know us ca be ir ha r ei th te they ha ir, it ’s about finding ha h it W . it h it w do what to air u or what you like. H what looks good on yo urself….It ’s something yo s es pr ex to ay w a is llow trends, you can fo n ca u Yo . al on rs pe very u are looking for.” yo t ha w nd fi to t en m experi From top to bottom: Ocean Tuia, Ayasha Foster, Claire Wescott, Precious Donato, Jane Kanchana Udomtawee. Photos by Camille JB. Jovenes, Yui Leung and Enkhtuvshin Chimee (TJ), Graphics by Yichi Lu, Sugarmaa Bataa (Kendra).

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Nakiya Russell “Bui bigger things I could my true style,” said easy to seek validati has deepened her con to prioritize what m and reflects her valu others.

ilding my testimony was one of the d have done to help me understand Russell. She highlighted how it is ion through appearance, but as she nnection with God, she has learned makes her feel genuinely comfortable ues rather than seeking approval from

Jenna Call said, “Someone searching for their own style should put in some work to root themselves into what they like, what they are drawn to, where their comfort is and where they see themselves fitting in the world. If your style is going to be an extension of you, you must know yourself,” said Call.

From top to bottom: Jenna Call, Gracie Payne and Ryan Escabarte.

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Expressing yourself is a brave thing to do.

-Liahona Moleni