Island Fever: Hawaiian Inspired Picks from Etsy

Way back in December I started dreaming about Hawaii. And after the monsoon that we just had, beaches and sunsets are back on the mind. It seems I'm not the only one. The Pacific Islands are officially trending right now, inspiring everyone from Givenchy to Topshop, Zara and everyone in between.

Retro Hawaii Map

Of course, we've been here before. In 1946 the first transatlantic flights to Hawaii began to, allowing the newly moneyed middle class access to a bit of American paradise and Hawaii began to export a new kind of product- vacation. While you can't bottle up and bring home a day at the beach, your clothes can certainly make the trip.

Lanai Hawaii Pendant

Tropical Charm Necklace

Thus was born the Hawaiian shirt, sarong, and Pake Muu. Invented in 1924, Rayon quickly became the fabric of choice for this new industry, with its silky feel and light weight.  When buying Hawaiian, I always recommend buying rayon because it has the best hand and is the most authentic (but it is extremely flammable so watch out for those bonfires). And of course, the prints! Oh the prints!

1980s Hawaiian Shirt

Surfboard Planter

Of course, it wouldn't be fashion if it wasn't repeated. The 1980s saw a resurgence in Hawaiian style, by pretty much copying the styles and prints of the 1940s. Hello Tommy Bahama. And while I generally hate the 1980s, you can actually find some pretty good pieces out there at really good prices.

Tropical Maxi Dress

Sunrise Shell Charm Necklace

And as fashion would have it, 30 years later, we find ourselves yet again in the midst of island fever.If you wanna get with it, check out my picks from Etsy

For Sale!

Missoni mini dress

1960s Hand painted Silk dress

1940s Floral print dress

Pendleton X Opening Ceremony skirt

1960s sequin top and Sheer embroidered skirt

I'll continue to add links this week, or check out my Etsy

----------More clothes after The Jump-------

Coming soon to a Neon Mamacita Near You

1970s Neon Lime Green Backless Dress

1970s Cotton Gauze Dress

Vintage Silk Kimono with Floral Pattern

1970s Corset Dress

1920s Eyelet Dress

1960s Mandarin Collar Dress

More after The JUMP

Brownies

The best thing about being in Portland is getting out of Portland. There is so much ecology and environment awaiting you; the coast, the gorge, the deserts of eastern Oregon. Good thing I've been trained in the art of identifying poison oak by ERA. Now I can wear the Brownie uniform with pride!

Buy this dress on Etsy!

Much more after the Jump

21st and 8th

More After the Jump!

The Stepford Wives of Ikea

I moved last week to a beautiful apartment. But after years of living in college housing, bouncing between coasts, and living at my parent's place I didn't have a single piece of furniture. So off to Ikea it was! That Swedish wonderhouse of cheap furniture just begged for a photoshoot, so I obliged. Betty Draper eat your heart out.

1940's Novelty Print Green Dress

All Furnishings by Ikea

Photography by Nick Shepard