Couture on the Islands with Koa Johnson

I don’t remember the first time I met Koa, but I’ll never forget the dress I wore in 2016 that made me feel like a living doll. Jet black with intricate hand-sewn embroidery and Swarovski crystals adorning the chest, the dress was a masterpiece. I wore it for Honolulu Fashion Week, and when the day arrived, I stepped onto the stage with confidence and gratitude for the countless hours poured into its creation.

Under the glittering lights, the crystals shimmered, and the long train swept gracefully behind me. Each step transformed me, embodying the vision of its masterful designer. I felt like a goddess incarnate.

Koa’s dedication to his craft, from creating dresses for beauty pageants in the islands to designs featured on network TV, is why I’m interviewing him today. His journey is a testament to how passion and hard work can lead to incredible achievements. I’m thrilled to see his dreams flourish and can’t wait for you to get to know the creative force that is Koa Johnson.

EVA JADEE: Is fashion design something you’ve always wanted to do? Did you envision your life to be on this path?

KOA JOHNSON: Fashion has always been a passion of mine since I was 12 years old. I was always into art, and slowly evolved into fashion at a young age. I always knew that I would be in the field of art or some sort of artistic field.
 
EJ: Can you recall moments where you’ve felt confirmation on your path? What did those moments look and feel like?

KJ: I remember as a young teenager envisioning myself becoming a fashion designer. I knew that it would take me some time through schooling and training to develop the skills I needed to become a fashion designer. The moment I realized I was on the right path was when I created my first piece back in fashion school.
 
EJ: Do you remember the first gown you made? What was it for?

KJ: The first gown I created as a new young designer out of fashion school was for Miss Maui USA who competed for Miss Hawaii USA. It was all hand sewn embroidered metallic floral appliqué with crystal Swarovski.
 
EJ: How has your upbringing on Maui molded you into who you are today? How has it inspired your craft?

KJ: My upbringing on Maui was very conservative. It taught me a lot about appreciating very simple things in life and makes me reflect on what I have now. I was not brought up with a lot of money but learned to work very hard for what I have. I feel like I implement that type of resourcefulness in my daily life.
 
EJ: What was it like for you to design dresses for the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City? How does this experience compare to designing for your own shows?

KJ: Working for a “real housewife” was very difficult and challenging at times because of the constant drama that is surrounded while working in reality TV, but the pieces I was able to create, and showcase was phenomenal. It displayed my skills and talents on a whole new level. I am forever grateful for the creative experience while working for the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City.

EJ: Which do you prefer to design, couture or ready-to-wear? Why?

KJ: Couture hands down! I honestly feel there is more connection and artistic expression through couture fashion. It's honestly the epitome of opulent fashion.

EJ: You put an endless number of hours into each dress. What keeps you going?

KJ: Seeing my vision come to life every time makes the hours and hours of sleepless nights worth it.
 
EJ: Who would you love to have wear your dresses?

KJ: I would love to dress Nicole Scherzinger for a red-carpet event. I'd love to support Polynesians doing great things.
 
EJ: Where would you like your creations to be seen? Museums, award shows, galas, nice dinners?

KJ: I see my creations being more of artistic one-of-a-kind pieces meant for a specific moment or event either being red carpet, museums, galas, etc.
 
EJ: You have many exciting projects ahead. Any that you’d like to share?

KJ: I am currently working on a yearlong fashion film project here on Maui. The inspiration and pieces will stem from genealogical history and be portrayed in a fashion forward artistic rendition.

EJ: Is there anything else you’d like people to know about you? Who is Koa Johnson?  

KJ: Koa Johnson is a young man from a little island in the Pacific Ocean doing big things.