New Middi Honolulu stocks sophisticated looks for resort life

Even rebels appreciate a little companionship, and after taking a chance on a formerly nonfashionable area, Shie Clark’s We Are Iconic boutique has a friendly face for a neighbor.

One of her friends, Mami Koizumi, moved in next door last month with her own boutique, Middi Honolulu, which will mark its grand opening at 11 a.m. Aug. 25 and celebrate with a grand-opening party from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 29.

The two boutiques have their own entrances and also share the main street entrance. The idea is not to compete, but complement each other. While We Are Iconic showcases modern streetwear, Koizumi takes her cue from the islands, offering her sophisticated take on resort apparel.

Speaking through her husband Yuki as interpreter, Koizumi said she’s been curating her own shop in Tokyo for nine years and wanted to bring a similar concept to Hawaii. Hers is an intimate shop with the vibe of being in one’s own walk-in closet.

"She loves Hawaii and doesn’t believe you have to dress up like you’re in New York or on an L.A. red carpet," Yuki said. "But she believes adults tend to dress like teenagers here and wants to show things you can wear to get a more sophisticated, finished look."

Upgrade options might include such finishing touches as a luxurious wrap, cardigan or elegant clutch.

Koizumi didn’t study fashion formally, but a year in Milan was enough to inspire her to open her own store.

"She was born to be a buyer," her husband said. "Every time we go shopping, I get so tired but she gets so excited. She loves to find unique things, even in Costco."

Middi Honolulu is at 1236 Waimanu St. Call 462-4558.