Explore Hawaiian culture through the art of lei making with flower
inspirations and gorgeous photography from stylist, fashion designer,
and local island icon Meleana Estes.
Brimming with vibrant photos of the most famous flower garlands of
Hawai'i--the lei--in dreamy island settings, Lei Aloha tells the story
of the flowers, craftsmanship, and community of lei culture, offering a
window into this beautiful world where life is a little slower, flowers
are abundant, and personal connections run deep. Local style icon
Meleana Estes continues the legacy of her native Hawaiian grandmother,
who was well known for her intricate and stunning lei. Sprinkled
throughout the book also are anecdotes about the fascinating history of
flowers, lei, and island traditions.
Each chapter tells the story of a grouping of flowers and lei, such as
plumerias for a sweet gathering of neighborhood keiki (kids), elegant
strands of white and yellow ginger for a candle-lit party, or striking
lei haku made for hula performances. It's an easy craft for the
homesteader with roots in a full backyard garden or the digital nomad
who keeps her possessions in one suitcase and can pick up flowers on her
travels. With evocative photos of vintage mu'umu'us, lush tropical
gardens, lei-bedecked longboard surfers, striking tablescapes, and
graceful hula dancers, Lei Aloha shares a side of the islands that
only locals usually get to see.
