From Heirloom Quilt to $10K Statement Piece: My First True Fashion Project

There’s something profoundly humbling about creating a piece of clothing that holds both history and hope for the future. When I designed and crafted this quilt dress, it wasn’t just about making something beautiful; it was about telling a story—a story of love, resilience, and the art of upcycling.

One of the larger blood stains post fabric treatment.

The Quilt’s Journey: A Three-Generation Treasure

The journey began with a gift from a friend: a three-generation-old Hawaiian quilt. This quilt belonged to his grandparents, who had clearly loved and used it over the years. It was worn, discolored, and was stained with blood… and even though that might sound a little gnarly it really was a testament to its life and the people who cherished it. To complicate matters, it had been in box, resulting in bug-eaten holes throughout the piece. 

At first glance, it may have seemed beyond saving. But to me, it was a treasure waiting for a second life—a way to honor its history while transforming it into something just as beautiful as it’s original state.

Designing Around the Imperfections

When designing the dress, my priority was to salvage as much of the quilt’s intricate appliqué as possible. A seamless circle skirt was the perfect solution, allowing me to maintain the integrity of the pattern without disruptions. The weight and loftiness of the quilt gave the skirt an elegant drape, reminiscent of the classic Dior silhouettes I’ve always admired.

For the bodice, I created a corset using the quilt’s remnant fabric after the circle was cut. This design tied the ensemble together both literally and figuratively. As a lifelong admirer of Dior’s early designs, Ive always been inspired by his iconic cinched waists and accentuated hips. I wanted to take that inspiration and blend that vintage French high fashion aesthetic with the rich cultural narrative of this old Hawaiian Quilt.

Diors Bar Jacket. One of my favorite looks in history. Photo from: x.

A Vision Realized

This dress was more than just another creation; it marked a pivotal moment for me. It was the first time I REALLY took a shot at a high fashion piece. I wanted to debut it at my very first first business accelerator event, as I couldn’t imagine showing up in another designer’s work. It was my first chance to really show my commitment to sustainable high fashion.

The result? A dress that turned heads, sparked conversations, and ultimately sold a copy for $10,000—right in the lobby of the hotel where the event took place. It was a dream come true and a validation of my vision to rebrand as a premier upcycler in the islands.

Why Heirloom Fashion Matters

This project solidified my passion for heirloom fashion—the idea that textiles, no matter how worn, can be reimagined into something beautiful and meaningful. It’s about sustainability, yes, but more so about honoring the stories embedded in the fabric and giving them a future.

Join My Journey

This dress is just the beginning and a glimpse into my 2026 collection. I’m on a mission to transition FOR into a fully sustainable fashion brand, creating heirloom clothing that celebrates Hawaii’s culture and craftsmanship while prioritizing the planet. 

Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes looks, new designs, and updates on my sustainable fashion journey.

Interested in purchasing this dress or my other creations? Send me an email on our contacts page. 

🖤 Keely Nakama