Designer Q&A: Kahana Kalama of Aloha Sunday Supply Co.

A well-manicured style, a love for the ocean and strong creative ingenuity—the perfect trifecta for Kahana Kalama (pictured below), co-owner and designer for Aloha Sunday Supply Co. Drawing from his pro-surfer background, the Kamehameha Schools alum is bringing a new wave of contemporary surf apparel to the Islands.

Photo by: David Croxford

What inspired Aloha Sunday?
I remember going to high-school formals and borrowing my dad’s aloha shirt. I felt so uncomfortable because it was so big on me, and it really lowered my confidence for those special occasions. I wanted to develop a brand that focused on great fitting, comfortable, semi-formal menswear (with a touch of aloha) for surfers and non-surfers alike.

How’d the dream come true?
After college, I lined up key sponsorships that allowed me to travel the world to compete in top surfing competitions. I used that time to learn as much as I could from my sponsors and the companies around me. Also, being a fit model helped me understand how clothes should appear and feel.

One item a guy should have in his closet from your new spring line?
A casual blazer. A formal one is great, but a relaxed, fun one can really elevate a look. Pair our Kepa Denim blazer with shorts.

Spring trend for men?
Prints on prints. Fashion shouldn’t be taken so seriously; get creative and have fun with it.

Style icon?
Duke Kahanamoku. His look was stylish, yet represented Hawai‘i, even in Hollywood. I appreciate that.

Fave local eats?
Since I go back and forth between here and San Diego, when I do come home, I have to have limu poke over rice from Kahuku Superette. I could survive off it!

Last, why not Aloha Friday?
Aloha Sunday is a play off of Aloha Friday. I grew
up hating Sunday because of the looming understanding that in one day I’d be working or in school. It’s a challenge to live passionately and do the things you love so that you look forward to the
start of the week.

Featured Aloha Sunday items can be found at Oliver Men’s Shop, 49 Kihapai St., 261-6587.

This article appears in the February 2013 issue of HONOLULU Magazine.