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Continue ShoppingAkalei Designs redefines kumihimo for a new generation, blending Japanese tradition with modern island inspired bead structures using an innovative approach to our style. Our "Kumihimo 2.0" represents the next evolution of braided artistry: advanced blending to create contemporary designs for shoppers (and students) seeking long lasting beauty and innovative designs. Discover jewelry that is affordable, timeless and boldly contemporary.
Akalei Designs redefines Kumihimo for a new generation, blending Japanese tradition with modern bead architecture and structures using innovative materials.Akalei Designs represents the next evolution of braided artistry: advanced bead engineering, and contemporary design for shoppers (and kumihimo students) who seek beauty and innovation.
Each piece is. handcrafted on Maui..
Bright Orange Silk Fiber & Metallic Japanese Necklace Lei- 20"
This extraordinary necklace was woven together using Gold Metallic, Red Metallic Fibers and Bold Orange Silk Fibers. Altogether there are hundreds of strands that comprise this piece, leaving it luxurious yet flexible. The spiral effect allows this to be worn tightly as a choker or stretched out for a lower plunge on the neckline. An extra strong magnet end allows you to wear with no worry of it falling off. It measures 20" and can be used as a straw hat band.
Akalei is Hawaiian for "bead reflections" which describes this unique necklace lei design style made only here on Maui. We reinterpret and illuminate traditional Hawaiian Lei using a vast assortment of glass and natural beads, Japanese silk and synthetic fibers, and a wide variety of braiding techniques and inspirations from across the globe.
Customized orders are welcomed - these braids can be made using Japanese Silks and various small (4-6mm) size pearls or semi-precious stones. Please contact me at info@akaleidesigns.com.
Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese braid making technique that results in beautiful and strong interlaced cords. This art form goes back hundreds of years as braids were made for use in armor of Japanese samurai warriors. In modern times these braids are designed as obijime that are worn as a belt with a kimono.
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