FASHION IN MOTION
Featuring Designers Anne Namba and Anna Meng

Anne Namba Designs and Anna Meng Jewelry provided the fashion and inspiration of Fashion in Motion, a benefit for Ballet Hawaii on April 18, 2010, at Halekulani. Interview with Anne Namba below.

RED: What was the inspiration behind the Fashion in Motion showcase?
Anne: It was all about dance and motion. How different genres of dance can influence style; i.e. Hot Latin looks that match a hot salsa dance, floral prints in soft pastels with flowing silks match lyrical dance. A modern dance matches to dark, asymmetrical edgier looks, while an elegant Vienese waltz goes wonderfully with elegant evening gowns.

RED: How did the collaboration with Ballet Hawaii come about?
Anne: The executive director of Ballet Hawaii, John Parkinson called and said “I’m bringing Mikhail Baryshnikov to your store.” That started a collaboration with Baryshnikov Arts Center for a fashion show fundraiser for them in May. I wanted to take advantage of this exciting opportunity and preview the show within the community. It was a natural that I do it as a fundraiser for Ballet Hawaii.

RED: Why did you pair up your collection with Anna Meng, Designer of Meng Dynasty Jewelry?
Anne: Anna and I work very well together and her collection compliments my designs. She also is crucial in helping me to coordinate events. She was the co-chair in this event.

RED: What are some favorites in your collection?
Anne: I do love the way the dress for the modern dance piece turned out. It was fluid, flattering and worked for the dance piece. I also love the colorful teal gown made from the gorgeous kimono with butterflies on it.

RED: Talk about your next show in NYC.
Anne: I’m very excited about the opportunity to work with a legend like Mikhail Baryshnikov. It is slated to be a very exciting and intimate affair. Mikhail’s wife is also modeling along with other major talent from the dance community. We’re putting an Asian/Hawaiian slant to it with asian style cuisine, sake tasting by Joy of Sake and Hawaiian entertainment.

RED: What is your take on the fashion scene in Hawaii?
Anne: I think with the internet being so strong we are no longer “behind” like we used to be reputed as. Of course we don’t have as defined seasonal looks as the East coast but I consider us lucky that we don’t have to. We do have a casual, tropical slant to things here as well as much more integrated cultural influences. Lucky we live Hawaii, as they say.

Anne Namba (left) and Anna Meng pictured above.

Click to see designs by Anne Namba.

Interview by Malie Moran
Photo by Floyd Takeuchi

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