Features Entrepreneur

David Shepard Hawaii

David Shepard
Honolulu, Oahu
David Shepard

David Shepard Hawaii­ is a sustainable and meaningful aloha wear company founded by Oahu-based botanist-turned-designer, David Shepard. All designs feature David's hand drawn fabric highlighting Hawaii's native flora and fauna.

Having received his master’s in horticulture at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, his drawings and designs are an extension of his mission of conservation through aloha aina. His work across the islands has ultimately led to the storytelling behind his aloha wear designs.

His collection consists of Hawaiian shirts, dresses, scarves, pareos, and bags, which are all designed, cut, and sewn in Hawaii. Each tag sewn on David's pieces literally share the stories about the native Hawaiian plants and animals represented on the natural fiber fabrics.

In January 2022, David underwent brain surgery followed by radiation treatment, and during an intense road to recovery, he was inspired by the Hawaiian shrub - aalii - which is known for its strength and resilience - and began sketching away. Shortly after, this sketch became the design for his newest print, which can now be found on one of his cotton tote bags.

Shining the spotlight on the conservation of Hawaii's environment and culture, a portion of proceeds go to select local conservation and non-profit organizations including Lima Huli garden and preserve and Kupu Hawaii.

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