Apr
19
4/19/2013 7:44 AM
Waikīkī – Island Slipper, the last remaining original manufacturer of made-in-Hawai‘i footwear, is set to open The Island Slipper Store at Royal Hawaiian Center on Friday, May 10. Their original store is located at Ward Warehouse.
Each store is an Island Slipper home designed for the location and feel of the time. It is a place where the customers can feel like welcome guests while shopping and learning about our Hawaiian traditions.
The original store at Ward Center is reminiscent of a time in Kaka‘ako when family businesses operated on the ground floor and lived above. Island Slipper has a long history in Kaka‘ako where the first factory opened its doors at 529 Koula Street in 1946.
Island Slipper’s new store at Royal Hawaiian Center is a step back in time. Before the hotels, beach homes were a privileged and special place. It was where families and friends from the mainland could gather and enjoy the beauty of Waikīkī. The design concept for the new store beautifully intertwines the feeling of those grand old beach houses.
Their new retail store is in a bigger space that enables Island Slipper to better serve its customers and showcase its storied brand. Woven throughout the store are elements that honor Island Slipper’s founding family and current ‘ohana with reminders of what makes Island Slipper special.
“Our desire was to create a fun place to shop where our customers feel at home,” said John Carpenter, owner, Island Slipper. “For more than 60 years, Island Slipper has made sandals for all of Hawai‘i. There should be a deep connection between who you are and where you’re from, and we’ve always tried to remain true to the lifestyle and people of our islands.” “We are pleased to welcome Island Slipper to their new location at the Center,” said Marleen ‘Ākau, general manager of Royal Hawaiian Center. “Their locally made slippers will be popular with our patrons seeking the perfect island-style complement to any casual outfit."
For this occasion Island Slipper will be presenting the "Male 'Ana" Collection exclusively at the opening of the Royal Hawaiian Center store. These designs are for couples that want to share a very unique look made especially for them in Hawai‘i. Island Slipper continues a tradition of authenticity and innovation that began in 1946. Today, Island Slipper produces over 100 styles for men and women, all featuring comfort and durability in looks that range from traditional to wild. Styles include casual beach slippers in a variety of suede, floral, tapa and animal prints; metallic glitters; laid back resort slippers for poolside, or heeled for hot tropical nights out; classic plaid and madras prints; and supple paniolo hand-tooled, rugged leather deck slippers with ultrasuede insoles and durable rubber outsoles for comfort and authenticity.
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