Forever 21 to open store in upcoming Kapolei mall

Forever 21, the trendy California-based clothing retailer, is expanding its presence in the islands with a fifth Hawaii location in Kapolei.

The retailer is the latest to sign on at Ka Makana Alii, the $500 million mall being built in West Oahu, according to a statement by the developer, DeBartolo Development.

Forever 21 will move into a 12,000-square-foot space at the 1.4 million-square-foot mall that is expected to have 150 shopping, dining and entertainment options, two hotels and offices when completed.

"Forever 21 has been hugely successful in Hawaii and the selection of Ka Makana Alii as the location for its next island location is a testament to the strength of the West Oahu retail market," Edward Kobel, president and chief operating officer at DeBartolo Development, said in a statement.

Kobel was traveling and unavailable for further comment.

The American fashion brand, known for its inexpensive apparel for women, men and children, brings in fresh merchandise and changes its store layouts daily. It also sells swimwear, cosmetics, footwear and accessories. Forever 21 has stores in Ala Moana Center, Pearlridge Center, Royal Hawaiian Center and the Queen Kaahumanu Center on Maui.

Ka Makana Alii’s first phase, measuring 750,000 square feet, is scheduled to open in 2016.