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Remembering a CTAHR alumn dedicated to sustainability and water conservation around the globe.
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
Kalia Ferri, who showcased her senior collection “Whisper of the Wild Look” at the 59th UHM Fashion Exhibition in May, recently had the exciting opportunity to collaborate on a professional press shoot for A Book Of magazine.
Her striking black, symmetrical strapless dress features a unique cut around the chest and a hand-painted panel. This couture look was chosen for actress Te Ao o Hinepehinga, a New Zealand–born actress of Māori descent who stars in Apple TV+’s Chief of War.
A remarkable achievement for a recent graduate, Ferri’s lava-inspired, hand-painted dress, symbolizing natural decay and regrowth was highlighted in the exclusive magazine feature.
Congratulations, Kalia!!
Click here to read the full UH News story.
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
Professor and Curator Andy Reilly and Graduate Assistant Terri-Lee Bixby were interviewed for ʻŌlelo. During the interview they discussed the CTAHR Historic Fashion Collection. Dr. Reilly discussed examples of historical developments of alohawear and its transition from tourist souvenir to beloved local icon. Terri-Lee Bixby talked about digitizing the collection to make it available to view online. You can watch the interview here.