Bali Hai Dress - Modern Tiki

Inspired by the iconic Hawaiian sundresses of the 1950's such as the Creme de la Creme Alfred Shaheen the Bali Hai Full Circle Dress has smocked elastic paneling that conforms to your curves with style and class. The detachable straps can be worn traditional (Bra-friendly), criss-cross, halter or strapless. Features a period correct sturdy metal zipper, natural bamboo buttons and thick hem to enhance the vintage silhouette, swing and drape. The bodice has a multipiece bra style bust with a foldover strap across the bodice you can place at the most flattering point for your bustline. The hidden side seam pockets are extra roomy easily will hold your phone, lipstick, sunglasses and more! 

The print was created solely for Lorelei’s Vintage taking inspiration from vintage textiles in my collection. We wanted to create a print that had an abstract Mid-Century aesthetic while being a good print to wear everyday of the year. Perfect colors for pairing with vintage jewelry and of course Bakelite bangles! It is screen printed for us in Bali on a beautiful woven textured cotton I handpicked myself. The screen printing is done the same way it was done in the 1950's with individual screens done for each color and layer which adds a texture, depth and richness that is just not found on digital prints. This first print by us is called Modern Tiki. It has been very fun as we have been fitting it to hear what friends are seeing in the abstract artwork. Like an Inkblot Psychology study.

Multiple  samples and fittings on several different women and body types went into the careful crafting and fitting of this dress to ensure the absolute best fit possible! It is made in Bali by a woman owned factory by skilled seamstresses. The whole design process was focused on creating a quality garment that will last a lifetime. Every consideration was taken to make this as close to vintage as possible. Design decisions were made for quality and authenticity. Meticulously designed to be ever so flattering while as comfortable as a dream!

Also available is matching cropped bolero and Men’s Aloha Shirt (matchy-matchy anyone?)

So much hard work, dedication and love went into the creation of the Bali Hai Dress. I hope you love it, love how you feel in it, and it makes you as happy as it makes me! XOXO, Mel

My absolute gratitude to the amazingly talented Susana Vestige for these photos and the darling Laci Fay for modeling. It was an absolute dream seeing these images come to life!