6 Ways to a Wonderful Weekend

Lei Chic’s guide to the weekend’s best events.

January 15, 2016

Natalie Schack,

Shop

Happily Forever After

What: You love to shop. Sometimes, though, you’ve got some trouble with the big picture. (Those wide-legged ikat pants seemed like such a great idea at the store until you got home and had no idea what to do with them.) We totally commiserate. That’s why we’re going to make sure we’re one of the first in line for the grand opening of the ‘Ewa Wing’s Forever 21 store, thanks to the live styling that will be offered. And it’s not just by anyone: Look for two of your favorite local style bloggers, Lindsey Higa of Pineapple Ice and Laura Mueseler of Sequins at Breakfast. They’ll be on hand to personally provide tips and tricks for perfecting Instagram-worthy spring ensembles. In addition, the first 100 people in line will receive a free gift card valued at $10, valid for that day only. Plus, fresh, raw juices will be provided by Instapressed to keep you satiated while you shop—that stuff’s hard work when you take it as seriously as we do.
When: Saturday, Jan. 16, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Ala Moana Center, Level 3
Details: Call 951-6780 for more information.

Watch

A Greater Design

What: As if we need more evidence that Hawai‘i’s got talent oozing out of its volcanoes, it’s having another moment in the sun thanks to two designers with Honolulu roots being featured on HGTV’s Ellen’s Design Challenge. Hosted by Ellen DeGeneres, the competitive furniture design series pairs 10 furniture designers with carpenters and builders in order to come up with fresh, new creations. Among the hip visionaries, look out for Miles Endo, the Tokyo-born, Honolulu-raised son of taiko icon Kenny Endo, and Melissa Rivera Torres, born in Mexico, and a former team member at the Honolulu Museum of Art.
When: The series will air on Monday, Jan. 18 at 9 p.m. See the rebroadcast of the casting special on Sunday, Jan. 17.
Where: HGTV
Details: For more information on the show, visit hgtv.com.

Shop

Luxe of the Draw

What: This Christmas was pretty hot!—er, in the unpleasant temperature sense of the word. It’s finally starting to get bearably cool, so it’s time to stock up on luxurious knitwear that you can snuggle into while sipping tea by the Netflix fireplace. We’ve got just the thing to help you out with that: The Modern will be hosting a pop-up shop from Artigiani Milanesi, a fine, handcrafted Italian cashmere atelier known for gorgeous custom-fit garments. Not only is this the brand’s first trunk show in Hawai‘i, it will be showcasing designs for both men and women from its winter collection, as well as receiving clients by appointment for private fittings for custom-made garments.
When: Today, Jan. 15 through Monday, Jan 18. To book an appointment, contact Colleen Cochlin at 250-7285.
Where: The Modern, 1775 Ala Moana Blvd.
Details: To preview the collection, visit amcashmere.com.

Visit

Richie Says Relax

What: Everyone could use a few more massages. Unfortunately, those pesky antagonists, Time and Money, keep getting in the way. That’s why we’re loving the new Asian trend that’s been trickling into the Islands: head spas. These mini-refreshers, which only take a quick half hour, include a luxe double shampoo and head massage that is just the kick you need to get your day back in gear. We got a chance to test drive the service at Richie Miao’s newly opened Dada Salon at the 808 Salon, where they say it’s a favorite de-stresser for Asian businessmen on their way to work. At $35–$45, it’s a mere drop in the bucket compared to a full-blown massage, even if you can’t manage to fit it in every weekday. A girl can dream, though, right?
Where: 808 Sheridan St.
Details: Call 683-8015 for more information or to make an appointment.

Attend

Fit to be Tied

What: Get down and dirty with your New Year’s fitness resolutions at the fifth Annual Makahiki Challenge at Kualoa Ranch. Nothing says “I’m serious about getting into shape” and “I’m really sorry about all that junk I ate over the holidays” like throwing yourself headfirst into a mud run that includes 12 obstacles (think mud pit, 12-foot wall climb and ice bath). And, oh, if you need more motivation, it’s not all pain: The three-mile course ends with a beer garden by Kona Brewing Co.
When: Saturday, Jan. 16, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Where: Kualoa Ranch, 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kāneʻohe
Details: $100 per person. Visit makahikichallenge.com for more information.

Attend

Monkey Around

What: A new year, a new Chinese zodiac mascot. And, since this year’s icon is the adorable and jolly monkey, we’re in an especially playful mood and ready to celebrate. The perfect event for us? This month’s Bank of Hawai‘i Family Sunday, which is themed Monkey Business in honor of this mischievous little creature. At this Chinese New Year celebration, you’ll find lion and dragon dances, folk dancing, crafts for the kids (make a monkey headband!) and cultural activities, including exhibits and demonstrations from the Narcissus pageant. You’ll also be able to try your hand at Chinese calligraphy and learn to play mah jong. Kung Hee Fat Choy!
When: Sunday, Jan. 17, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Where: Honolulu Museum of Art
Details: Call 532-8700 for more information.