The natural tints and traditional culture of Hawaii are incorporated into our products.
What aspects of Hawaiian culture do you project onto your clothes?
Onodera:In an easy-to-understand way, I think this is largely expressed in the colors. For example, the sage green items come from Hawaiian plants, and the glaze represents the color of the ground, which is unique to a land with many volcanoes.
I see. So you use the natural colors of Hawaii in your products.
Onodera:Yes, I do. I need to understand the importance of color in the production process, so I actually go to Hawaii with Joseph and Napali to do fieldwork and learn from them. I am conscious of the connection with Hawaii in everything from the colors to the designs as I direct the production. That's why the items don't change completely depending on the season's concept.
On the other hand, is there anything that Hawaiian culture has been sublimated into your designs?
Onodera:For example, the graphic on this cut and sewn Hawaiian quilt called "laua'e" is a typical example. This pattern is from "Poakalani Quilts," a quilt company run by Joseph's relatives. Hawaiian quilts are like family crests in Japan, and they are sometimes patented. I think it is unique to "Salvage Public" that they have made it official. Also, as shown in the outerwear I am wearing today, the design incorporates a message in a mixture of Hawaiian and English. Some items have graphics of plants such as hibiscus and naupaka.
This episode is a perfect example of how Hawaiian culture is incorporated into our products.
Onodera:That is the identity of Salvage Public. In fact, Joseph is a person who is highly respected locally, and there are many people in Hawaii who admire him. The brand's store is in the Kakaako area, and it is the coolest store in Hawaii. That's how strong his style is.
How do you plan to expand "Salvage Public" in the future?
Onodera:As a brand that proposes a Hawaiian lifestyle, I think we will develop a variety of clothing that fits the climate and location of Hawaii, while also having a strong surfing aspect to it. Last year we also started a golf line, and I think we will not focus solely on beach life, but will divide our lines into various categories and create special products for each scene. I think the interesting thing about "Salvage Public" is that we can naturally realize this.
