Dutch textile artist Annet Couwenberg (www.annet couwenberg.com) is coming to Honolulu to teach a sculptural mixed-media class, an intensive exploration of clothing as a metaphor.

"Since garments have never been solely functional, students will examine clothing as a means for expressing psychological, sexual and cultural identity," Couwenberg writes. Innovative fiber constructions will be inspired by historical garments — the bustle, crinoline and corset. Technical instruction will include armatures and coverings, millinery and sewing techniques such as tucking and piping. Basic sewing skills are required.

Couwenberg received an MFA from the Cranbrook Academy of Art and an MFA in textile arts from Syracuse University. She is chairwoman of the fiber department at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally and has been featured in numerous media such as The New York Times, Washington Post, Le Monde, Surface Design and Fiberarts.

The three-day workshop is presented by the Hawai'i Craftsmen and runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 27-29 at the Academy Art Center at Linekona; $275 for members of Hawai'i Craftsmen, $350 for nonmembers, $150 for student nonmembers. There's an additional $30 materials fee. Reservations required: call Verena at 521-3282.

'PRINCESS FOR A PENNY' PROM SHOW

Sacred Hearts Academy is planning a benefit fashion show, "Princess for a Penny," at 4 p.m. Wednesday in the school's Performing Arts Center courtyard, 3253 Wai'alae Ave. The school's female students are working with Audrey Fu (a Sacred Hearts alum), owner of the former Villa Roma boutique. Students will model semiformal and formal dresses, while male students from neighboring schools model tuxedos. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Prevent Child Abuse Hawaii.

The show is sponsored by the academy's Future Business Leaders of America club, under the leadership of adviser Christy Keaunui. Tickets are $3. Phone: Sacred Hearts Academy, 734-5058, ext. 221.

SIG ZANE, NALANI KANAKA'OLE HONORED

Fashion and textile designer Sig Zane and his wife Nalani Kanaka'ole are being recognized with Duke's Waikiki's 2009 Ho'okahiko award for their dedication and contributions to perpetuating Hawaiian culture and tradition.

Zane will be honored for maintaining Hawaiian values and culture through his clothing designs, and Kanaka'ole will be recognized for continuing ancient Hawaiian hula.

SUPPORT JUNIOR LEAGUE AT 'SACS IN THE CITY'

"Sacs in the City" is the Junior League of Honolulu's annual fundraiser to support community projects for women, teens and families. The group sponsors several programs: "My Story," "HerStory," "Impact Honolulu" and "Kids in the Kitchen."

The event is billed as a "fashionista's fundraiser fantasy" featuring a runway show, luncheon and silent auction of handbags from Prada, Celine, Jimmy Choo, Anteprima, Coach and others. The fashion show will unveil Manuheali'i's new collection of evening wear. Last year's event raised more than $60,000.

Sacs in the City will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 4 in the Coral Ballroom, Hilton Hawaiian Village. Tickets: $85 ($100 after Sunday); call 946-6466 or visit www.juniorleagueofhonolulu.org.

EXCLUSIVE CREATIONS AT NEW MAUI DIVERS STORE

In conjunction with the company's 50th anniversary, Maui Divers has just unveiled a new concept store, called Maui Divers Jewelry Luxury Collection, in the newly renovated Royal Hawaiian Hotel.

The 1,000-square-foot flagship store will feature Maui Divers' most exclusive handcrafted designs. In addition, the store will be Hawai'i's exclusive retailer of Gregg Ruth's diamond and precious colored-stone jewelry and designer Barbara Westwood's one-of-a-kind creations.

Prices will range from $250 to $50,000.

ON OUR RADAR | HELLO KITTY FROM ANTEPRIMA

Everybody's favorite feline and fashion phenomenon, Hello Kitty, is now appearing with Anteprima.

It's a natural fit, as both brands were born in Japan. Anteprima is the creation of Japanese designer Izumi Ogino, who has her line manufactured in Italy. The handbag collection, the staple of Anteprima, is made of hand-knitted wire cords in a plethora of shimmering colors.

The limited-edition collectible Hello Kitty collaboration includes handbags, charms, necklaces and parasols that range in price from $300 to $2,200.

Some of the pieces are extremely limited; for example, there are only three of the charms available in the United States. Hardcore Hello Kitty fans can find the collection in the Ala Moana and Waikiki Anteprima boutiques.