Designing the Pacific

Designing the Pacific brings working designers and makers into direct conversation with leaders from business, education, government, and philanthropy to consider what Pacific fashion needs to thrive.

Designed around exchange rather than formal presentations, the gathering will explore the cultural, economic, and practical questions shaping the future of fashion across Hawaiʻi and Oceania. Participants will gather in the round to share experience, identify industry needs, and consider what designers, educators, funders, businesses, and public partners might build together.

The goal is not to solve everything in one day. It is to deepen understanding, form new relationships, identify shared priorities, and create momentum for continued collaboration.

Program Schedule

10:00 a.m. — Welina
Welcome and introduction to the day.

10:15 a.m. — Inheritance + Innovation
Culture, Creativity, and Creative Ownership

How do designers draw from inherited knowledge while creating new work, protecting cultural expression, and defining their own creative futures?

11:10 a.m. — Creativity + Commerce
Capacity, Production, and Sustainable Growth

A practical look at the production, manufacturing, workforce, financing, and market access needed to build sustainable fashion businesses in Hawaiʻi and across Oceania.

12:05 p.m. — Conversations Around the Table
Lunch and an opportunity to continue the exchange, build relationships, and explore areas of shared interest.

12:50 p.m. — Vision + Action
Building the Pacific Creative Economy

Participants identify shared priorities, potential collaborations, and what comes next for Pacific fashion and the wider creative economy.

1:45 p.m. — What We Carry Forward
Closing reflections, shared priorities, and a pathway for continued collaboration.

2:00 p.m. — Pau

Attire: Creative Professional

Polished, comfortable daywear suited for conversation and connection. Personal style, bold prints, and pieces by Pacific and Native Hawaiian designers are encouraged. 

Your Ticket Includes

• Admission to the complete four-hour program
• Participation in three facilitated exchanges
• Lunch
• Two hosted beverages

Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverage choices will be available.

Parking

Valet parking is available through Kaimana Beach Hotel. Public metered street parking is also available nearby.

Family Admission

Designing the Pacific is family-friendly, with no age restriction. Every attendee, including children, must have an individual ticket.

All sales are final and non-refundable. Please review your event selection, date, and ticket details carefully before completing your purchase.