Singer/songwriter and fashionista Erin Smith indulged in some retail therapy around Kailua and shares some must-haves from local shops.
1. Frani Thacker at Satori Salon and Spa in Kailua is my go-to hairstylist for keeping my color sharp and my curls under control. I’m always up for trying out a new hair serum for curls, especially one that comes recommended from someone with great-looking hair.
At my last visit to the salon, Frani put a new serum in my hair. When I got home, I realized my hair was silky smooth but still had all of its curl. I instantly became like one of those women in TV commercials for hair products, whipping my head around with glamorous glee.
You can pick up a 8.45-bottle of Davines Curl-Building Serum for $30 at the salon. While you’re there, treat yourself and make an appointment for a hair tint or facial. The salon is closed Sundays. Call 261-5000.
2. So many women on Instagram have been wearing super- cute, one-piece swimsuits. Sure, there are sassy one-piece swimsuits with cutouts and mesh — I love those. But the ones I’ve had my eye on look as though they are perfect for surfing. You could also wear them as a bodysuit with, say, jeans or a pencil skirt.
I found this floral long-sleeved suit with a green lace-up “V” for $140 at Betty x Joe boutique in Kailua. Made by Seea, the suit’s thick enough to handle the friction of a surfboard against your skin and the long sleeves protect your arms from the sun. You could wear it all day in the surf, then dry off and use it as a centerpiece for your evening outfit before heading out to dinner.
The boutique, at 2658, 41 Kihapai St., also carries accessories, clothing and plants.
3. Every girl needs a pink guitar, right? Or is that just me? Either way, Coconut Grove Music in Kailua is the go-to shop for all things related to music gear.
Right now they have a really cute pink, mini Fender electric guitar in stock for $149.99. I must have stopped in to play it five times already.
Now that word’s out, you might beat me to the punch and nab it for yourself. If so, I’d like to stop by your place to play it. That OK?
Coconut Grove Music also has in-house luthiers to fix any problems you might have with your guitar. They carry a wide range of ukulele, amps, guitars, chords, cables and supplemental gear, plus lots of strings in case you break one while serenading your friends at Kalama Beach.
Go to coconutgrovemusic.com or call 262-9977.
4. Lanikai Beach has a place in the heart of many people; my family is no exception. It has long been a special place for my husband and me — so much so he proposed to me there last year at sunset under a hot pink moon.
These days it can be difficult to get in and out of Lanikai due to the tourist traffic. If you find a parking spot, consider yourself lucky.
If you’d like to take home a small piece of Lanikai’s magic, consider this printed throw pillow from SoHa Living in Kailua. The pillowcase features a soothing image of Lanikai’s turquoise water and the Mokulua islets.
The pillowcase costs $38.80 and a fill pillow is $9.99. The store is filled to the brim with beach-themed home accessories, many of which are unique and utterly gorgeous.
Call 772-4805 or go to sohaliving.com.
“5 Things We Love” is a shortlist of newly discovered stuff you have got to see, hear, wear, use or eat. Please keep in mind that featured products may be in short supply and may not be available at all store locations; prices may vary. Tell us what you are loving by emailing features@staradvertiser.com.
