A Hawaii and Mid-Century Inspired Brand
Get to know Mid-Century Aloha, a t-shirt and cocktail gear brand that celebrates mid-century style and island life.
Mid-Century Aloha Logo by Lettering Works
What led to the start of Mid-Century Aloha?
An interest in both entrepreneurship and mid-century modern design. Hawaii became a state right at the height of the mid-century modern, also called “MCM,” movement so there’s a unique relationship there. A fascinating intersection of design and history.
Block Party T-Shirt Design by Lettering Works
What should we know about the culture and architecture in Hawaii?
Hawaii is very unique! Native Hawaiian and Polynesian culture are the foundation of Hawaii historically and into the present. Hawaii is considered one of the most diverse U.S. states so there are many cultural influences. Other than English, Tagalog and Ilocano, languages spoken in the Philippines, are the most commonly spoken by Hawaii residents. After that, Japanese, Spanish, and Hawaiian are the next most frequently used languages. In addition, visitors come from all over the world and that gives Honolulu an international character.
There is also a variety of Honolulu’s architecture. The Chinatown area is a nationally registered historic district which has a lot of 1920’s buildings with a Chinese influence. Also in the downtown, there are some significant buildings of the Hawaiian monarchy like the ʻIolani Palace and Aliʻiōlani Hale. These places have been preserved and are important testaments to the sovereign nation that existed before it was illegally overthrown in the 1890s.
Mid-century modern design is found all over Oahu. Some areas are near time capsules of that time period architecturally. Some favorites to check out? Those charming vintage hotels and walk-up apartments that still exist in the Waikiki neighborhood.
What are some of your short/long term goals of Mid-Century Aloha?
Creating designs and products that resonate with people who feel a connection to Hawaii and MCM style. Growing organically and having a positive community impact.
Diamond Head T-Shirt Design by Lettering Works
What inspired the imagery of the Mid-Century Aloha t-shirts?
All of the imagery is directly inspired by middle century buildings and signage that still survive in Hawaii today. If you enjoy photography, there are tons of vintage photo ops around Waikiki and elsewhere on Oahu.
Waikiki Walk Up T-Shirt Design by Lettering Works
How would you describe the process of working with Lettering Works to establish your branding? What did you enjoy most?
It was very easy to work with Lettering Works. There was a clear process and the client portal was simple and intuitive to use. The process made things efficient and effective, and at the same time there was also room for flexibility. I really enjoyed the collaborative nature of the project.
Hale Hope T-Shirt Design by Lettering Works
Why do you think other business owners should invest in branding their business?
I think business owners are missing an opportunity if they don’t thoughtfully consider what images and messages they are sending out into the world to represent their products and services. Good branding is in many ways just effective communication.