Tour de Force

With sophisticated splendors, the eighth edition of Passport to Luxury took guests on a superbly tasteful journey.

THE PARTY
With all the high-profile retail arrivals and the opening of the gorgeous new Ewa Wing, this year’s Passport to Luxury—the highlight event of Ala Moana Center’s Shop a Le‘a extravaganza—was especially spectacular. With a roster of 24 leading boutiques thoughtfully paired with the islands’ leading chefs and mixologists, the creme de la creme of Honolulu turned out in full force.

THE GUESTS
Well-heeled attendees could be spotted all over the Center as they made their way to the Modern Luxury lounge for check-in. But for a select few, the fete started early at Neiman Marcus, where VIPs and members of The Friends of Iolani Palace—the evening’s nonprofit beneficiary—gathered. Very soon, many eyes were on Iris Gil Viacrucis, who donned a remarkably crafted purple Hawaiian feather lei. Providing exquisite vintages was Christopher Ramelb, Southern Wine & Spirits’ certified sommelier. Chocolatier Erin Kanno Uehara served luscious truffles from Chocole‘a.

THE HIGHLIGHTS
With participating boutiques located throughout the Center, guests had to be strategic with their store visits. After all, they had to have their Passport booklet stamped by at least six stores in order to enter the coveted finale drawing. Of course, it was hard to decide which was the greater draw: the season’s magnificent fashions or the exquisite bites being served. Bulgari, for instance, featured critically acclaimed toque Kevin Lee. Featuring pieces from the likes of Tod’s and Tory Burch, the evening’s silent auction also drew attention. Other happenings also upped the presentation factor. At new arrival Cynthia Rowley, stunning women in neoprene body suits and neoprene pants, wowed guests. Toward the end of the night, revelers gravitated toward Porsche Design, which was pumping—thanks, in part, to talented spin doctor DJ Anit from The Modern Honolulu’s Addiction. Of course, the excitement was far from over, as guests made their way at 9pm to the luxury raffle at Centerstage, hosted by vivacious media personality Olena Heu. Among the most coveted giveaways: Emporio Armani’s Plisse runway handbag in blush hues; Longines’ Symphonette watch boasting 56 diamonds and a black alligator strap; and for the jet set, Alaska Airlines tickets for two, accompanied by a Ala Moana Center Shopping Spree gift card for $500. –Photos by Tracy Chan and Travis Okimoto; gown photo by Mark Ramelb