Ari South joins Hui Makaala benefit lineup

Designer Ari South may be fashion-forward, but in certain ways, she sees the value in doing things the old-fashioned way.

“We are so focused on the new way of doing things that we often forget the old ways that really work.” said South, taking a break from her busy schedule for a phone interview.

South is referring to the Hui Makaala organization and its long-standing annual benefit. This year marks the 49th Hui Makaala scholarship fund luncheon. Last year the organization, which works to preserve and promote Okinawan culture, awarded $20,000 to nine college-­bound Hawaii students.

For the fashionistas out there, the fundraiser and luncheon also features a fashion show, pop-up shops and a silent auction. This year Hui Makaala will showcase the works of designers South, Chanterelle Couture and ‘Iolani. The event will be held July 22 at the Coral Ballroom at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

“A lot of us have used scholarships to get through school, and every time I can make a difference that way, I try to,” said South.

South became involved with the Hui Makaala organization a few years back when she showcased her designs at a previous fundraising luncheons. This was right after appearing on the hit television show “Project Runway.”

Well-known on the local fashion scene, as well as nationally following multiple appearances on “Project Runway” and “Project Runway All Stars,” South has become a fan favorite of the series and one of Hawaii’s most visible designers.

So what does she plan to showcase at this year’s event?

South will feature her Hawaiian print line, an element to her design roster that she has introduced over the last year and a half. A pop-up shop in the ballroom will sell the pieces displayed on the runway, modern takes on alohawear. She also plans to have modern aloha shirts and tailored jackets for men on the runway.

South is working on opening a brick-and-mortar retail store in her company’s factory space, which she said will be a steady location to supplement her frequent pop-up shops. She’s aiming to open in time for the holiday season.

Luncheon attendees will also see the designs of Chanterelle Chantara, who uses a lot of sustainable, natural fibers in her Kauai-made Chanterelle Couture line, and fashions by ‘Iolani. Founded in 1953, ‘Iolani combines family traditions with innovation in its made-in-Hawaii fashions.