COURTESY BRAD GODA
At left, fluid designs by Mamo Howell, were shown during the 17th annual Governors Fashion Awards show. At right, Garments by You & Me Naturally exuded a playful spirit, leading the company to win as Manufacturer of the Year in the contemporary category.
Governor’s Fashion Awards
honors Reyn Spooner
and the best of today
In a show of fall collections by several island fashion manufacturers last Friday, during the 17th annual Governor's Fashion Awards, a highlight was Reyn Spooner's look back at the company's infancy, and that meant bringing back the surf safari jacket, which drew laughter from a crowd that seemed to remember the look when it was hot back in the days of "Hawaii Five-0."
Tim McCullough, president and CEO of Reyn Spooner, who traveled from Waimea to pick up his award as the 2003 recipient of the Ka 'Ahu No'eau Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed by the Retail Merchants of Hawaii, promised the local version of the bush jacket wouldn't be returning to a Reyn's store any time soon.
The crowd at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Coral Ballroom was also entertained by the antics of surfers during a Local Motion segment, and treated to the playful designs of You & Me Naturally.
Mamo Howell's designs exhibited flamenco flair as tiers of sheer flowing ruffles graced her evening dresses.
First Hawaiian Bank also presented its Power of Yes award, which recognizes outstanding achievement by a Hawaii company, to Crazy Shirts.
The Governor's Fashion Awards annually recognize exemplary performance by manufacturers in the areas of:
>> Innovation and leadership in design.The following companies were named winners in an award ceremony following the fashion presentations:
>> Contribution to the industry in employment, programs and promotions.
>> Contribution to the community.
>> Success as a manufacturer.
Manufacturer of the Year
Traditional
Princess Kaiulani Fashions
Founded in 1906 by Jack and Joan Andersen, Princess Kaiulani Fashions is known for feminine designs with an eye for details.
Unique / lifestyle
The Custom Company
The Custom Company just marked its 10th anniversary creating custom identity apparel, school uniforms and licensed wares, including University of Hawaii products and Hello Kitty apparel
Contemporary
You & Me Naturally
Established in 1974, You & Me Naturally is known as Hawaii's leading manufacturer of fashions for petite women.
Retailer of the Year
General
Food Pantry, Ltd.
Food Pantry, Ltd., and its sister company Kalama Beach Corp. has been one of the state's leading hotel gift shop and visitor/ resident convenience store operators for 35 years. Food Pantry family of stores was founded in 1960 by Maurice J. Sullivan.
Specialty
Moonbow Tropics
The family-owned and operated company began in 1994 with the first of four shops on Maui. Each of the Moonbow Tropics shops is known for its fun environment, with merchandise showcased amidst swaying palms and authentic Hawaiian decor. The company plans to open its first Waikiki boutique in the Moana Surfrider Hotel later this year.
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