Lani Lau Hawaii

When Michelle Smith traveled to Bali more than 25 years ago, she found herself inspired by Balinese culture and developed a love affair with the exotic Indonesian island. So when she started her clothing line Lani Lau, she decided to merge her love of Bali with new inspiration that comes from living in Hawaii and the beauty she’s surrounded by daily.

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Tiana Manuma: Lani Lau Hawaii low-V dress $90

“My latest collection is called Rain and is inspired by the gorgeous sunsets Hawaii is famous for,” she explains. “Lani Lau is boho chic with a tropical feel. We have maxi dresses, shorts, tops and tunics.”

Smith moved from Canada to Maui 12 years ago, and worked as a Realtor. She then moved to Oahu five years ago and opened a furniture and home decor store called Bali Designs on Sand Island. But she missed the fashion industry, in which she worked in Canada, and started Lani Lau two years ago.

“The line has gained a lot of press from some famous models from Japan recently wearing our line, so our following with the Japanese has been really remarkable,” she says. “We also are excited to have Anuhea, the local singer, wearing our clothing, and so with all the social media buzz that has been created, the line continues to grow in popularity.”

Smith has opened a boutique within Bali Designs at 2144 Auiki St., transforming it to more of a lifestyle store. On Oahu, you also can find Lani Lau at various boutiques in Waikiki, Gypsea in Kailua, Lilikoi in Kahala Mall and more. For a full list of stores that carry Lani Lau, visit lanilauhawaii.com. For more information, call 841-0504.

photos by Nathalie Walker
page design by Nikki Thommes
stylist Ralph Malani