Why a boutique?
When I moved to Kaua’i ten years ago, I thought my fashion dreams were over. Up until then, I had worked as a clothing designer/in the industry for ten years at companies like; St. John Knits, Tommy Bahama, and Lululemon. I had always imagined myself to be the next Coco Chanel and I had worked hard to achieve my vision.
And now – now it seemed, my vintage high heels, and carefully selected outfits only alienated me from my new community.
When I was a girl, at my wedding party speech, I said – “I am only sure about two things in life – Bobi (my husband) and clothes.”
My first year living on the island, felt like the end of my work, and in many ways, the end of my creative life. I took a spiritual journey to India, became a certified yoga instructor, I quit drinking, I learned meditation to quiet my mind, I gave birth to two beautiful children……and yet……and yet…….I could not extinguish my love to create and furthermore, my love to work and serve.
Fashion has always been a way to express myself, a way to express beauty. I love fabrics, I love colors, I love texture, I love prints, I love exceptional craftsmanship – I love clothing.
“If you bring forth what is within you, what you bring forth will save you. If you do not bring forth what is within you, what you do not bring forth will destroy you.” Jesus Christ
This last year they found the beginning stages of cancer in my body. The 40th year of my life was quickly approaching. I looked up “crisis” in the dictionary (AKA mid-life crisis) and I was edified to find the definition to be “turning point.” I rejoiced. This is not the end, but merely the turning point – it is in fact a new beginning! I cut my hair, buried it with my Grandma Lois and dyed it black. I transformed.
I changed expectation to commitment. I changed discipline to choice. I felt free again.
This boutique is my creative expression and my service to the community. Its what I am good at….its what “I know”. ONELOVE Boutique exposes the love I have inside of me.
I must do what I love.