Lei (Hawaii): Traditional Hawaiian Garland

Materials and common forms

Leis are made from a wide range of organic materials. Floral leis are familiar to visitors and often use blossoms such as hibiscus, plumeria or orchid because of their color and scent. Single flowers strung on a stem, braided vines, and woven leaf leis also appear. Other materials include nuts, seeds and shells, or feathers for special ceremonial pieces. The same object may be described as a necklace or a flower lei depending on form and purpose.

History and cultural context

Garland-making and wearing were part of Polynesian culture before Western contact and developed distinctive meanings in the islands. In Hawaii, particular plants and styles acquired symbolic associations: for example, certain leaf leis are linked to ceremony and respect. Lei-making techniques and motifs have been passed down through families and communities and are recognized as an important element of Hawaiian cultural identity.

Making, types and preservation

• Flower leis: threaded or wired blossoms; best when fresh and fragrant.
• Leaf and vine leis: such as maile or braided haku (head) leis valued for scent and longevity.
• Nut, shell and feather leis: durable and often used for formal ceremonial purposes.

Common construction methods include stringing, wiring and braiding. Some leis are meant to be worn briefly and then composted; others made of kukui nuts or braided leaves can last much longer if kept dry and handled gently.

Uses, etiquette and Lei Day

Leis are presented to welcome visitors, congratulate graduates, honor newlyweds, comfort mourners or recognize achievements. Etiquette varies but recipients commonly accept a lei with both hands and a word of thanks; removing a lei in public is sometimes considered impolite because it may signal rejection. May 1 is celebrated as Lei Day in Hawaii, an occasion to honor lei-making traditions and cultural expression.

Contemporary notes

Today lei-making blends traditional techniques with new materials and commercial production. Skilled lei makers preserve cultural knowledge while adapting to available resources and environmental concerns. The lei remains a widely recognized symbol of Hawaiian hospitality and identity.