Rocket Ahuna Unveils Third Collection "LIMAHULI" Celebrating the Rich Tapestry of Hawaiian Culture and HeritageThe Spring/Summer 2025 collection will be unveiled in the lush Limahuli Botanical Gardens, paying homage to Rocket's profound connection with the 'aina (land) that inspires it.
Rocket AhunaNov 14, 2024
Kapaʻa, Kauaʻi (November 14, 2024) —Rocket Ahuna, an innovative Kanaka Maoli fashion designer from Kauaʻi, announces the launch of his third collection, "LIMAHULI," a deeply personal tribute to the land, heritage, and people of Ha'ena. The Spring/Summer 2025 collection will be unveiled in the lush Limahuli Botanical Gardens, paying homage to Rocket's profound connection with the 'aina (land) that inspires it.
"LIMAHULI" is inspired by Rocket's years of learning from Lei Wann, director of Limahuli, and reflects the profound bond between fashion and Hawai'i's natural beauty. The collection brilliantly integrates ulana lauhala (woven pandanus leaves) from the unique hala o Naue, a variety of hala found only in Ha'ena. Traditionally used for mats and baskets, this lauhala now serves as the foundation for garments that honor the ingenuity of Hawaiian craft.
Highlighting the collection is a dress inspired by the 'oahi ceremony of Makana. This traditional ritual involves launching firebrands from the peak, symbolizing renewal and prosperity. Rocket captures this in a striking silhouette with hues of deep orange and smoky red, achieved using natural dyes from native plants like laua'e o Makana and maile lau li'i li'i.
"I am thrilled to present LIMAHULI," Rocket says. "This collection is a testament to my love for Ha'ena and the culture that has shaped my identity. It is a fusion of traditional Hawaiian elements with contemporary design, highlighting our ability to adapt while respecting our roots."
Rocket Ahuna, a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and recipient of the Critic Choice Award for his capstone project in 2022, continues to push the boundaries of tradition. His work seamlessly blends cultural studies, environmental awareness, and artistic expression, ensuring the enduring relevance and evolution of Hawai'i's artistic legacy.
Rocket Ahuna is a visionary Kanaka Maoli fashion designer from Kapaʻa, Kauaʻi. With a degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and a dedication to honoring his heritage, Rocket creates designs that encapsulate the essence of Hawaiian mythology and history. His work fosters a deeper connection with the ʻāina and its vibrant ecosystems, playing a pivotal role in both innovation and the preservation of Hawai‘i's cultural legacy.
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About Rocket Ahuna
Grounded in the cultural practice of hula, Rocket recalls spending countless hours in the forest collecting indigenous plants and materials to incorporate ʻāina, both physically and spiritually, in each of his designs. These meticulous practices create kaona, endless layers of meaning, and were his first introductions to the multi-faceted realm of fashion.
Through storytelling in fabrics, symbols, silhouettes, and motifs, he strives to encapsulate the essence of Hawaiian mythology and history, fostering a deeper connection with ʻāina and its vibrant ecosystems. Rocket strives to push the boundaries of tradition while respecting his cultural roots, playing a pivotal role in innovation and ensuring the enduring relevance and evolution of Hawai‘i's artistic legacy.
Nov 14, 2024
