The Fashion Design and Merchandising program had the opportunity to take part in this year’s Discover Mānoa event, where prospective students, families, and community members explored academic programs across campus. Our FDM booth welcomed a steady stream of visitors who were eager to learn more about the major and the hands-on experiences it offers.

We extend our appreciation to the five student representatives from the Stole Society and to the faculty members for their active engagement throughout the event. Their conversations with visitors helped highlight the strengths of the program and the creative opportunities available to FDM students. Younger attendees especially enjoyed the balloon animals crafted by our student participants, adding a fun and memorable element to the booth. Thank you to everyone in FDM who contributed to making our participation successful. Your support continue to strengthen our program’s presence in the UH Mānoa community.

By Ju-Young Kang

The Kalo Grant program continues to support Fashion Design & Merchandising students as they transform their ideas into impactful ventures. This semester, two FDM majors were awarded $500 in seed funding for their business concepts. Amelie Berg is developing Well Within, a platform designed to strengthen community connection through locally led classes, services, and wellness-focused experiences. Skylar Conley is building Da Rack, a mobile shop that delivers a curated blend of locally made art, vintage finds, and secondhand clothing. Through Kalo Grants, FDM students gain the early resources and encouragement needed to bring their entrepreneurial visions to life. For additional details, please refer to the UH News article.

By Mark Oandasan

We are delighted to share that our FDM Major Shoutouts video has been selected as one of the winning entries! In their submission, Yana and Edward highlighted the UH Mānoa fashion student experience, from exhibitions and educational trips to behind-the-scenes moments that showcase what makes the Fashion Design and Merchandising major truly stand out.

The Major Shoutouts Contest invites UH Mānoa students to present their major in 60 seconds or less through original, self-made videos, offering an inside look at academic life, hands-on learning, and the meaningful work students are engaged in.

Congratulations to Yana and Edward on this wonderful accomplishment.

By Ju-Young Kang

Hniang Sung, a Myanmar Native, graduated this past May. She showcased her collection called “Chin Legacy” at the 59th Annual Fashion Exhibition.

We received great news that two of her looks have been selected from a rigorous referee process and will be showcased at the 2025 ITAA (International Textile and Apparel Association) conference in St Louis, MO, from November 18-22, 2025.

Hniang’s design was attributed to indigenous weaving from Chin State in Myanmar and was inspired by the cultural artifacts and beautiful, untouched nature. FDM faculty and her peers are so proud of her achievement!!

By McCarthy Minako

Barbara Kawakami (1921-2024) is an alumna from the FDM program. Born in Japan, she moved to Hawaiʻi with her family when she was three months old.  She was a dressmaker and entered UHM at the age of 53 where she earned a BS in Fashion Design and Merchandising and a MA in Asian Studies.  She is the author of Japanese Immigrant Clothing in Hawaii, 1885-1941, and Picture Bride Stories.  She made this dress (circa 1970s-1980s) using fabric designed by local artist and designer Amos Kotomori.  Its unique asymmetrical cut and frog knot at the knee pay homage to tradition while rendering the dress in a modern fashion. The dress was donated to the CTAHR Historic Fashion Collection by her daughter.

By Andy Reilly