Debut of Princess Kaʻiulani’s Gown at ʻIolani Palace Marks Completion of a Decade-long Initiative

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – A detailed reproduction of an ivory gown that belonged to Hawaiʻi’s last princess was unveiled at ʻIolani Palace this weekend, celebrating the 151st birthday of Princess Kaʻiulani. The niece of King Kalākaua and Queen Liliʻuokalani, she is recognized as the last heir presumptive to the Hawaiian Kingdom.

This gown exemplifies Victorian-era garment design and showcases intricate floral patterns that reflect both her Hawaiian and Scottish roots. Featuring crown flowers and pīkake to signify Hawaiʻi, alongside Scottish thistles and poppies that highlight her paternal lineage, the gown’s embellishments include a trapunto technique on the bodice. Designer Iris Viacrusis dedicated approximately two months to ensure an accurate reproduction based on the original garment in the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, taking 450 hours to complete the piece for the Aliʻi Garment Reproduction Project, which aims to replicate historical royal attire.

Paula Akana, president and CEO of The Friends of ʻIolani Palace, emphasized that clothing offers a unique perspective on the lives of the royal family, stating, “These garments help us understand them in a different way, through the clothing they chose to wear and the details that reflected their identities.” The project began in 2016 to emphasize the importance of royal history, and the gown was formally revealed Friday after being welcomed with Hawaiian customs earlier this month.