The September 11th attack
Red, white and blue flowers
| • | Retailers scramble to meet demand for patriotic wear |
| • | Halloween mood toned down |
Advertiser Staff
Red, white and blue are ubiquitous throughout Hawai'i as flags adorn offices, homes and clothing in a show of unity for the nation.
Richard Ambo • The Honolulu Advertiser
Now a Honolulu retailer and manufacturer have put their heads together to create a hair accessory that makes a statement: patriotic pua (flower) hair pics.
Flag flower hair pics are among the patriotism-themed merchandise that has been rushed to store shelves in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Lo Kaimuloa of Riches Kahala and J.P. Kendrick of Forever Hawaiian Creations got together on Sept. 12 and decided to do something to help firefighters and police. "As owners of Hawai'i businesses, we felt we should help," Kaimuloa said.
The accessories combine the stars and stripes with island flowers: hibiscus, plumeria and tiare. They are made of a sturdy (and secret) blend of fimo-like stuff and sell for $12 each.
The patriotic pua were given to audience members at the Miss America and Mrs. America pageants last weekend.
Among other fast-selling accessories at Riches are crystal dog tags sporting the American flag ($30), enamel and crystal flag pins ($4-$8) and caps with the flag embroidered on the front and "USA" on the back ($19.95).
A portion of the proceeds of all flag-related accessories will go to relief efforts. Two checks already have been sent.
The pua hair pics also can be ordered online.
