A passion for health and wellness led Maria Kawananakoa to open Body Balance fitness studio in 1998. She is also a wife, mother of a teenage boy and a real estate agent.

She said she makes it work by surrounding herself with a good support team and choosing clothes that go from exercise sessions at her Honolulu studio to business meetings.

“It’s important to surround yourself with people who really believe in your ​vision. I have a great studio manager and real estate assistant who help juggle everything,” Kawananakoa said. “​Also, having a gym bag packed with the everyday essentials can take me from the studio to a meeting or open house.”

DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE

“Stylish comfort, but always in heels if not wearing workout clothes. I practically live in heels if I’m not at the studio.”

PREFERRED ATHLETIC WEAR

“I like a capri cut because it has a more versatile look. You can wear it to work out as well as to have lunch with friends. You need to make sure that the fabric is not see-through and the material is strong enough to withstand a good stretch.

“For athletic wear I really like Noli Yoga, Alo and Oxyfit.”

A GOOD MAT IS HARD TO FIND

“You want to make sure that your mat is thick. It doesn’t matter what print or color it is. It just needs to be thick enough to support your joints and bones when you’re on the floor stretching.”

GYM BAG ESSENTIALS

“A S’Well water bottle, toiletries and hairbrush. I’m always prepared to go from the studio to another appointment.”

PERSONAL CARE MUST-HAVE

“Definitely deodorant and body oil. I really like the scent of Jo Malone’s Pomegranate Noir.”

LIP SERVICE

“Laura Mercier lipstick in the color Sexy Lips. A good lipstick can make you feel feminine.”

SHOE-INS

“A solid-black pump is a must-have. For accessories and shoes, I wear a lot of Gucci. I feel like Gucci is a timeless designer brand that is made of good-quality leather.”

“Island Lookbook” is a weekly feature of the Star-Advertiser Sunday Magazine that spotlights local trendsetters. Email features@staradvertiser.com.