The Role of Flowers in Traditional Hawaiian Hula Costumes

Hawaiian hula is a deeply symbolic and culturally significant dance that tells stories through graceful movements, chants, and traditional attire. One of the most visually striking aspects of hula costumes is the incorporation of flowers, which hold deep spiritual, cultural, and aesthetic importance in Hawaiian traditions. The role of flowers in hula costumes goes beyond mere decoration; they carry symbolic meanings, reflect the natural beauty of the islands, and connect dancers to their heritage.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Flowers, known as pua in Hawaiian, are considered sacred elements in Hawaiian culture. Many flowers used in hula costumes are tied to Hawaiian mythology and spiritual beliefs. For example, the maile vine, often woven into leis, is associated with Laka, the goddess of hula, and is used in ceremonies to honor her. Similarly, the ohia lehua flower, which represents love and passion, is connected to Hawaiian legends and is frequently seen in hula adornments.

Flowers also play a role in blessing and protecting dancers. Before performances, dancers may participate in rituals involving flower offerings to seek guidance and inspiration from their ancestors. This spiritual connection ensures that the performance is more than entertainment—it is a sacred act of storytelling and cultural preservation.

Types of Flowers Used in Hula Costumes

The choice of flowers in hula costumes varies depending on the dance style, island traditions, and the message being conveyed. Some of the most commonly used flowers and plants include:

• Plumeria (Melia) – Known for its fragrant blossoms, plumeria is often used in leis and headpieces. It symbolizes positivity, grace, and new beginnings.

• Hibiscus (Pua Aloalo) – Hawaii’s state flower, the hibiscus is associated with delicate beauty and hospitality. Its vibrant colors make it a popular choice for hula adornments.

• Ti Leaves (Lau Ki) – While not a flower, ti leaves are widely used in hula skirts and leis. They are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

• Pikake (Arabian Jasmine) – A favorite among hula dancers for its sweet fragrance, pikake symbolizes romance and love.

• Lehua Blossoms – The red ohia lehua flower is deeply tied to Hawaiian mythology and is often worn to symbolize strength and devotion.

• Gardenia (Kiele) – This flower is cherished for its soft white petals and intoxicating scent, representing purity and love.

Each flower’s color and scent add to the overall sensory experience of a hula performance, helping to set the tone and mood of the dance.

Floral Accessories in Hula Attire

Flowers are woven into various parts of a hula dancer’s costume to enhance their appearance and meaning. The most common floral adornments include:

• Lei (Garlands) – Leis are an essential part of hula attire, worn around the neck, head (lei po’o), wrists, and ankles. They can be made from fresh flowers, ferns, and vines, each carrying different symbolic meanings.

• Haku Lei (Floral Crowns) – A traditional headpiece worn by dancers, haku leis are carefully handcrafted from flowers and greenery, creating a striking visual effect.

• Kūpeʻe (Ankle and Wrist Adornments) – These floral and leafy bracelets accentuate a dancer’s hand and foot movements, adding emphasis to gestures and rhythms.

• Pa’u Skirts and Ti Leaf Skirts – While traditional pa’u skirts are often made from tapa cloth, ti leaf skirts add movement and a natural element to performances. Some dancers also weave flowers into their skirts for added decoration.

Flowers in Different Hula Styles

Hula is generally divided into two main styles: hula kahiko (ancient hula) and hula ‘auana (modern hula). Flowers play distinct roles in each style.

• Hula Kahiko (Ancient Hula) – This traditional form of hula is performed with chanting and percussion instruments. The costumes often include greenery such as ti leaves and maile vines, with flowers incorporated in a way that honors ancestral traditions. Natural fibers and plant-based adornments reflect the deep connection between the dancers and the land (‘aina).

• Hula ‘Auana (Modern Hula) – With the introduction of Western influences, hula ‘auana features more colorful, elaborate costumes. Floral prints, bright flower leis, and exotic blossoms are commonly used to enhance the storytelling aspect of the dance. The attire is often lighter and more decorative, emphasizing fluid movements and melodic songs.

Seasonal and Regional Variations

Since Hawaii consists of multiple islands, different regions have their own floral traditions. Certain flowers are more abundant on specific islands, influencing the types of adornments used in hula costumes. Additionally, seasonal availability plays a role—some flowers bloom at certain times of the year, making them more prominent in dances performed during those seasons.

Preserving Tradition and Sustainability

As interest in Hawaiian culture continues to grow, the demand for fresh flowers in hula costumes remains strong. However, there is also an increasing emphasis on sustainability. Many hula practitioners encourage the responsible harvesting of flowers and plants, ensuring that these natural resources remain available for future generations. Some groups also use artificial flowers or dried blooms to reduce environmental impact while maintaining the traditional aesthetic.

Conclusion

Flowers are an integral part of traditional Hawaiian hula costumes, serving as more than just beautiful accessories. They carry deep cultural, spiritual, and symbolic meanings, connecting dancers to their heritage and the natural world. Through leis, headpieces, and floral adornments, hula costumes embody the vibrant essence of Hawaiian storytelling, keeping ancient traditions alive while embracing the evolving expressions of this cherished dance form.