🌺 How to Wear Hawaiian Flowers: A Guide to Island Style 🌺
Ah, the allure of Hawaiian flowers! Their vibrant colors, intoxicating fragrances, and delicate beauty evoke images of tropical paradise, swaying palm trees, and the gentle caress of ocean breezes. Whether you’re planning a trip to the islands, attending a luau, or simply want to infuse your everyday style with a touch of aloha, knowing how to properly wear Hawaiian flowers is key. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right blooms to styling them with confidence.
Understanding Hawaiian Flower Etiquette and Symbolism
Before we dive into the specifics of wearing Hawaiian flowers, it’s important to understand the cultural significance and etiquette surrounding them. Flowers, known as *pua* in Hawaiian, hold a deep symbolic meaning and are used to express a wide range of emotions, from love and friendship to respect and celebration.
* **Giving vs. Receiving:** Giving flowers is a common gesture of aloha. When offering a flower, do so with a smile and a warm greeting. Accepting a flower is also considered a sign of respect and appreciation.
* **Plumeria:** Plumeria, or *melia* in Hawaiian, is perhaps the most iconic Hawaiian flower. Its sweet fragrance and delicate petals make it a popular choice for lei, hair adornments, and decorative accents. Different colors of plumeria can carry different meanings, although these are not strictly adhered to:
* **White:** Innocence, purity, new beginnings
* **Yellow:** Friendship, joy, happiness
* **Pink:** Love, romance, passion
* **Red:** Courage, strength, intensity
* **Orchids:** Orchids are another popular choice in Hawaii, symbolizing beauty, luxury, and love. They are often used in corsages, boutonnieres, and floral arrangements.
* **Hibiscus:** The hibiscus is the state flower of Hawaii and comes in a rainbow of colors. It represents beauty, grace, and delicate charm.
* **Other Flowers:** Many other flowers are used in Hawaiian culture, including pikake (jasmine), tuberose, and ginger. Each flower has its own unique fragrance and symbolic meaning.
**A Note on Respect:** While wearing Hawaiian flowers is generally accepted and appreciated, it’s important to do so with respect. Avoid picking flowers from private property or protected areas. When in doubt, purchase flowers from local florists or vendors. And, most importantly, wear them with the spirit of aloha in your heart.
Choosing the Right Hawaiian Flowers
The first step in wearing Hawaiian flowers is selecting the right blooms. Consider the following factors:
* **Occasion:** The occasion will dictate the type and style of flowers you choose. For a casual beach outing, a single plumeria tucked behind your ear might be perfect. For a more formal event, a lei or a more elaborate hairpiece might be more appropriate.
* **Personal Style:** Choose flowers that complement your personal style and coloring. If you have warm undertones, consider yellow, orange, or red flowers. If you have cool undertones, consider pink, purple, or white flowers.
* **Availability:** Not all Hawaiian flowers are available year-round. Plumeria, for example, is most abundant during the summer months. Check with your local florist or vendor to see what’s in season.
* **Freshness:** Choose flowers that are fresh and vibrant. Look for blooms that are firm, with no signs of wilting or browning. If purchasing a lei, check that the flowers are tightly strung and have a pleasant fragrance.
**Where to Find Hawaiian Flowers:**
* **Local Florists:** Many florists specialize in Hawaiian flowers and can create custom arrangements for any occasion.
* **Hawaiian Markets and Vendors:** If you’re lucky enough to be in Hawaii, you’ll find a wide selection of flowers at local markets and vendors.
* **Online Retailers:** Several online retailers ship fresh Hawaiian flowers nationwide.
* **Grow Your Own:** If you live in a warm climate, consider growing your own Hawaiian flowers. Plumeria and hibiscus are relatively easy to grow and will provide you with a steady supply of blooms.
How to Wear Hawaiian Flowers in Your Hair
Wearing flowers in your hair is a classic and elegant way to embrace the Hawaiian spirit. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. **Choose Your Flower(s):** Select a fresh, vibrant flower or a small cluster of flowers. Plumeria, hibiscus, and orchids are all excellent choices.
2. **Prepare Your Hair:** Style your hair as desired. Flowers can be worn with loose waves, a sleek ponytail, or an elegant updo.
3. **Position the Flower(s):** The traditional way to wear a single flower is behind the ear. However, you can also wear flowers in other parts of your hair, such as along your hairline, woven into a braid, or pinned to a bun.
* **Right Ear:** Traditionally, wearing a flower behind your right ear indicates that you are single and available.
* **Left Ear:** Wearing a flower behind your left ear indicates that you are taken or in a relationship.
4. **Secure the Flower(s):** Use a bobby pin or a small hair clip to secure the flower(s) in place. Make sure the pin or clip is hidden beneath the petals.
5. **Adjust and Admire:** Adjust the flower(s) as needed to ensure they are positioned correctly and look their best. Admire your reflection and embrace the aloha spirit!
**Tips for Wearing Flowers in Your Hair:**
* **Use a strong-hold hairspray:** This will help to keep the flower(s) in place and prevent them from slipping.
* **Choose a flower that is proportional to your hair:** A large flower can overwhelm a small hairstyle, while a small flower can get lost in a large hairstyle.
* **Consider the color of your hair:** Choose a flower that contrasts with your hair color to make it stand out. For example, a white plumeria will look stunning against dark hair.
* **Don’t be afraid to experiment:** Try different flower combinations and placements to find a style that you love.
Wearing a Lei: A Symbol of Aloha
A lei is a garland or necklace of flowers, shells, seeds, or other materials. Leis are traditionally given as a gesture of welcome, farewell, love, or friendship. Wearing a lei is a beautiful way to honor Hawaiian culture and express your appreciation for the islands.
**Types of Leis:**
* **Flower Lei:** The most common type of lei, made from fresh flowers such as plumeria, orchids, and pikake.
* **Shell Lei:** Made from shells found on the beaches of Hawaii.
* **Seed Lei:** Made from seeds such as kukui nuts or job’s tears.
* **Feather Lei:** Made from feathers, traditionally worn by royalty.
**How to Wear a Lei:**
1. **Receive the Lei with Respect:** When receiving a lei, accept it with both hands and a slight bow. This shows respect for the giver and the tradition.
2. **Place the Lei Around Your Neck:** Gently place the lei around your neck, ensuring that it hangs evenly on both sides.
3. **Wear the Lei with Pride:** Wear the lei with a smile and a sense of gratitude. It’s a symbol of aloha and a connection to the islands.
**Lei Etiquette:**
* **Never Throw a Lei Away:** Leis should be treated with respect and never thrown away. When you’re finished wearing a lei, you can hang it on a tree, bury it in the ground, or return it to the ocean.
* **Don’t Wear a Lei While Pregnant (Generally):** While not a strict rule, some believe it can bring bad luck. It’s better to offer the lei respectfully to another person.
* **Respect the Giver:** Always acknowledge the giver of the lei with a thank you and a smile.
Other Ways to Wear Hawaiian Flowers
Beyond wearing flowers in your hair or as a lei, there are many other creative ways to incorporate them into your style:
* **Corsages:** A corsage is a small bouquet of flowers worn on the wrist or pinned to clothing. Corsages are often worn for special occasions such as weddings, proms, or graduations.
* **Boutonnieres:** A boutonniere is a single flower worn on the lapel of a suit or jacket. Boutonnieres are typically worn by men for formal events.
* **Anklets:** String a few flowers onto a piece of elastic or ribbon to create a delicate anklet. This is a fun and festive way to add a touch of aloha to your outfit.
* **Floral Crowns:** Create a floral crown by weaving flowers onto a wire frame or headband. Floral crowns are perfect for festivals, weddings, or any occasion where you want to make a statement.
* **Clothing Embellishments:** Sew or glue small flowers onto clothing items such as hats, shirts, or dresses. This is a great way to personalize your wardrobe and add a unique touch.
Caring for Your Hawaiian Flowers
To keep your Hawaiian flowers looking their best, follow these tips:
* **Keep them Hydrated:** Place flowers in a vase of water or mist them with water regularly. For leis, you can gently mist them with water and store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.
* **Handle them Gently:** Flowers are delicate, so handle them with care. Avoid crushing or bruising the petals.
* **Keep them Cool:** Store flowers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat can cause flowers to wilt and fade.
* **Use Floral Preservatives:** Add floral preservatives to the water to help keep flowers fresh for longer.
Adding Aloha to Your Everyday Style
Wearing Hawaiian flowers is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a way to embrace the aloha spirit and connect with the beauty and culture of the islands. Whether you choose to wear a single plumeria in your hair, a vibrant lei around your neck, or a delicate floral anklet, remember to wear your flowers with confidence and a sense of joy.
Here are some ideas for incorporating Hawaiian flowers into your everyday style:
* **Casual Outings:** Tuck a plumeria behind your ear for a touch of tropical charm. Pair it with a sundress, shorts, or jeans for a relaxed and effortless look.
* **Special Occasions:** Wear a lei or a corsage to a luau, wedding, or other special event. Choose flowers that complement your outfit and express your personal style.
* **Workplace:** If your workplace allows, wear a small flower in your hair or on your lapel. This is a subtle way to add a touch of aloha to your workday.
* **Home Decor:** Use Hawaiian flowers to create beautiful floral arrangements for your home. Place them in vases, bowls, or even floating in water to create a tropical oasis.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Aloha Spirit
Wearing Hawaiian flowers is a beautiful way to celebrate the spirit of aloha and connect with the beauty of the islands. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply dreaming of a tropical getaway, embrace the tradition and let the vibrant colors and sweet fragrances of Hawaiian flowers transport you to paradise. Remember to wear them with respect, gratitude, and a genuine appreciation for the culture they represent. Aloha!