News Summary
OluKai, a Hawaiian-inspired footwear brand, has opened its largest retail store on King Street in Charleston. This location, the brand’s 11th retail outlet, emphasizes a blend of Hawaiian culture and Southern hospitality. Customers can explore a wide array of products, including sandals, sneakers, and headwear. The store’s design features culturally significant elements from both regions, making it an experiential shopping destination.
Charleston – OluKai, a premium Hawaiian-inspired footwear brand, has officially opened its largest retail store in Charleston, located at 338 King Street, Unit A, previously occupied by Francesca’s. This store is OluKai’s 11th retail location and represents the 24th retail experience operated by its parent company, Archipelago Companies, which also manages other brands such as Melin, Roark, and Kaenon. The newly opened location boasts an expansive retail space of 1,803 square feet.
At this new store, customers can explore a variety of products designed for both men and women, including sandals, sneakers, slippers, golf shoes, and headwear from the Melin collection. The store design is rooted in the Hawaiian phrase “E Komo Mai,” which translates to “Welcome,” symbolizing the brand’s commitment to providing a blend of the Aloha spirit of Hawaii combined with the warm hospitality that Charleston is known for.
OluKai’s Chief Marketing Officer, Kerry Konrady, highlighted the connection between Hawaii’s island essence and Charleston’s coastal lifestyle, stating that this store enhances the storytelling of the brand and showcases its unique products. The design of the Charleston location features a rich array of elements that reflect both cultures.
Design Highlights
Among the notable design elements of the new store are:
- Custom mosaic tile at the entrance, prominently displaying “E Komo Mai”, which embodies the welcoming character of both Hawaiian and Southern cultures.
- Sweetgrass baskets, crafted by local artist Corey Alston, who is recognized as a fifth-generation Gullah Geechee weaver, reflecting the heritage of Charleston alongside Hawaii’s weaving traditions.
- Lei-inspired artistic details, including custom artwork by Hawaiian artist Kristen Reyno, representing warmth and respect.
- Pineapple motifs throughout the store, symbolizing hospitality shared by both Hawaiian and Southern traditions.
- Haint Blue ceilings, a traditional Gullah Geechee color believed to ward off evil spirits.
- Custom wall coverings inspired by china dinnerware, featuring designs such as sweetgrass roses, orchids, and pineapples that harmonize Charleston’s essence with Hawaiian influences.
Store Operations
The OluKai store is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For those unable to visit in person, online shopping is available through the official OluKai website, OluKai.com. The brand is also active on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, providing updates and engaging with customers.
Background Context
OluKai has positioned itself as a premium footwear brand that embodies Hawaiian culture and aesthetics, offering products that embrace comfort and style. The opening of this Charleston location not only expands its physical presence but also reinforces its brand narrative that highlights the connection between island culture and Southern hospitality. Each retail experience crafted by Archipelago Companies is designed to resonate with local communities while showcasing the unique character of their respective brands.
The launch of the Charleston store is a significant milestone for OluKai as it continues to grow its footprint in key markets. With its vibrant design and culturally rich offerings, the store aims to attract both locals and tourists looking for quality footwear that reflects the spirit of both Hawaii and Charleston.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Hawaii Comes to King Street
- Wikipedia: OluKai
- Travel + Leisure: OluKai Ohana Flip Flops Review
- Google Search: OluKai footwear
- Travel + Leisure: Most Comfortable Slides
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hawaiian Culture
- Travel + Leisure: Best Slippers for Men
- Google News: Retail Stores Opening Charleston
