MANAOLA — Local services in Honolulu

Excellent service with a personal touch. I took my wife shopping at Ala Moana to cheer her up because her car was recently broken into and some things were taken. I didn't even realize there was a Manaola store, but I also rarely ever go to the mall. As soon as we step foot into the store we were immediately greeted by one of the employees, Kainoa. He was so kind and welcoming, and asked us if there was anything in particular we were looking for. We didn't have anything in mind so my wife gleefully perused the beautiful garments and fashionable styles. I quickly noticed how each article of clothing was so intricately designed. Back to Kainoa. I'm not one to shop for clothing. I let my wife do that for me as my fashion sense seems to be lacking. Fortunately, Kainoa was a wonderful conversationalist. I learned about his background and his hobbies, and I shared mine. We talked stories the entire time my wife was shopping and trying on clothes. He still gave great attention and care to the few other customers that came in. I noticed that he has a unique ability to make people feel welcome in such a short period of time. As my wife made her decision on an alluring top, another employee, Keaulani, assisted us with checking out. Like Kainoa, she was so friendly and created an environment that made us feel like ohana. Being someone that enjoys learning of others, I asked her about her aspirations. I was surprised to learn that at such a young age she works full-time in order to put herself through college. I wish at that age I was as driven and motivated as she is. Such an inspiration! As Keaulani rang us up, Kainoa wrapped up my wife's new top. Even the way he packaged purchased merchandise was intricately done with aloha. I made a comment that it looked like a tightly wrapped laulau. My wife and I will undoubtedly be shopping at Manaola in the near future. Both Kainoa and Keaulani are great assets to the company. Manaola earned two life-long supporters/shoppers and that's all thanks to Kainoa and Keaulani. We're actually headed there tonight and we're bringing...

Every time I have walked into this store the employees always give me this snobby look like I shouldn’t be shopping in there. The most recent visit was certainly my last. I requested to purchase a dress that was in the window (that was for sale, not just for display). The girl working at the counter looked at me like I was filth then asked her coworker behind her if they would sell me the dress. The man looked me up and down then rudely turned around and said no. The girl then said I would need to make an appointment and try it on….saying “it’s a whole thing” without offering me a day or time to even schedule. Like I had to be “approved” by the store workers to buy their product. It feels that because I am not Hawaiian that they don’t want me wearing their clothing line. Their rude behavior is appalling especially for a brand that isn’t even high end or known outside of this state. I have never been disrespected by anyone in my life like that. Blatant racism by those retail workers is unacceptable and completely uncalled for. For an up and coming designer to attempt to make it in this world, you aren’t doing it the right way. I will never purchase or wear your...

I had a deeply upsetting experience at this store. I came in hoping to try on a dress and possibly make an appointment, but was treated with coldness and hostility from the moment I walked through the door. Despite other customers being helped and accommodated, I was told flatly that I couldn't try anything on or make an appointment—without explanation. It quickly became clear that I was being treated differently because of my race.

This kind of racism and exclusion has no place in any business, let alone one that claims to serve the public. I left feeling humiliated and deeply hurt. No one should be treated like this.

I will never shop here again, and I strongly encourage others to think twice before supporting a place that does not treat all customers with equal dignity...