Follow a fashionista's lead

u lead writer Paula Rath knows quite a lot about fashion and design, but one woman can only see and do so much. Enter the Fashion Forum — young Island women with a passion for style and design. None are trend slaves; each has a unique personal style. Many sew, or at least deconstruct and reconstruct, their own clothes. Some are costume or fashion designers in their own right. Several are actively working to build a Honolulu Fashion Incubator, uniting members of the city's diverse fashion industry. Here's the style item each loves most.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NORMAN SHAPIRO

Teacher, fashion designer

Can't live without: "My jean jacket. I've been wearing a jean jacket for so long it feels like a part of me. I can wear it with a dress or a casual outfit; it dresses up or down."

HPU student, majoring in international relations

Can't live without: "Rosebud Salve. It's not sticky and it's a great substitute for lip gloss, with just a hint of color. It moisturizes the lips and gets rid of dryness in a day."

UH-Manoa student, majoring in apparel design and merchandising

Can't live without: "Anything with polka dots! They are my instant mood booster, fun, versatile and a part of my wardrobe."

Yoga teacher, social worker

Can't live without: "High-tech fabrics that wick away moisture."

Artist, entertainer, educator

Can't live without: "My business-card case. It's an integral part of my daily life, because every time I interact with someone, I use it. My mana is stored in it."

Psychotherapist

Can't live without: "Sunscreen, especially Anthelios with Mexoryl SX. I wear it as a moisturizer, and it protects me better than any other sunscreen. I get it from my dermatologist."

Recently left Honolulu; sales associate, Betsey Johnson, San Francisco

Can't live without: "Tarte 24/7 lip balm. It has a creamy hint of color and SPF 15. My favorite shade is Thursday, my favorite day of the week."

UH-Manoa student, majoring in apparel design and merchandising

Can't live without: "Vintage sunglasses. ... They complete an outfit, and I can hide behind them."

Assistant store manager, Betsey Johnson, Ala Moana

Can't live without: "Red lipstick. I love it because it makes me feel like an old Hollywood movie star: classic, beautiful and sophisticated."

Environmental planner, freelance fashion writer

Can't live without: "Ashtanga yoga. I've been a yoga student for six years now and can't imagine my life without it."

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