The Lei: A Symbol of Aloha

A Cultural Tradition Signifying Welcome, Aloha, and Celebration

Lei are an iconic part of Hawaiian culture. They are largely recognizable adornments that have made waves across the seas – but what are the origins the iconic symbol, and what does they really represent?

The History of the Lei

Lei were created by Polynesian voyagers that settled in the Hawaiian archipelago. They crafted items such as shells, feathers, flowers, and other foliage to create a wearable garland. Native Hawaiians used lei to distinguish social hierarchy, gifts for travelers, or simply a way to spread aloha.

Different kinds of lei carried different meanings, depending on the occasion or material of which the it was made from. While there are no strict rules as to what kind one should be equipped with, there are some loose guidelines as to which lei is the most appropriate depending on the situation. Orchid lei are typically given to visitors as a thank you or welcome. Maile ti leaf lei represent appreciation, admiration, or respect. In traditional Hawaiian society, Maile lei were used to signify peace between opposing ali’i (Hawaiian chiefs).

White, pink, or red lei made out of carnations symbolize love. These are usually present during weddings or anniversaries. The kokui nut lei were a sign of royalty, for they are non-perishable.

Now, they are given to anyone as a means of celebration. In Hawai’i, graduations are generally followed by a leing ceremony, where family and friends gift the graduate with a lei. While ceremonies are a more structured example of modern usage, lei are just a way to express gratitude and love towards ones presence in any context.

Lin’s Lei Shop

You can get any cheap ol’ candy or fabric lei at Longs in a pinch, but if you’re looking for ones that are expertly crafted, Lin’s Lei Shop on Maunakea Street in Honolulu is the perfect place. They maintain the artistry behind lei making rather than giving into the commodification that the tourism industry has exploited.

It’s a small, family-owned business that has been an O’ahu staple for many years. They have an assortment of pre-made lei in a fridge at the front of their shop with staff ready to help you select. Aside from being lei maestros, Lin’s also acts as a floral shop. If you’re looking for arrangements such as bouquets or wall embellishments, Lin’s has you covered.

The storefront is a welcoming place for customers to come up and purchase lei, but the owners request calls for the fastest responses from further locations.

Their phone number is (808) 537-4112, and their hours are 7am to 6pm Sundays through Mondays and 7am to 7pm Tuesdays through Thursdays.

As lei have become something bigger than its beginnings, it’s important to know where they came from and what they represent. We all are able to experience the aloha spirit, but not without learning about the history and practices that come with it. So the next time you give or are gifted a lei, take it with understanding, and let the mana go through you.

Read About Hawaii’s annual Lei Day Celebration Every May 1st

by Vanessa Hathaway

As a writing intern for Honolulu Vibes, Vanessa Hathaway is passionate about creating quality content that allows audiences across oceans to collectively share her zest for adventure. Raised in Washington D.C and Las Vegas, Vanessa moved to O’ahu to pursue a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in English at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. She spends her free time playing gigs with her band, Blue Tuesday, and surfing at the local longboard spots in Honolulu.

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