Now open: Andy South Atelier

Nadine Kam photos
Andy South Atelier is now open at 12 S. King St. This is a peek into the showroom, which looks like a New York loft. The building's second story houses her corporate headquarters, workspace and showroom.

Andy South hosted "An Afternoon of Good Taste" Sept. 15, inviting industry professionals for a first look at Andy South Atelier, which encompasses the second-story at 12 S. King St., and is now the home of her corporate headquarters, workspace and showroom.

Guests were invited to mingle in the ground-floor courtyard for Andy South-inspired cocktails by St. Germain’s Maria Burke, as well as light fare by Brassiere Du Vin's executive chef Marco Elder, before a blessing. Guests then climbed the stairs and took off their shoes before entering the Atelier's grand showroom. It is so stunning! I know I wanted to move in immediately. The light pouring through the loft windows is too beautiful to resist. If I worked here, I would never feel like leaving, which works out well for the tireless Andy, who's been known to pull all-nighters in transforming concepts into reality.

Andy South and bestie Jill Misawa in the heart of the Atelier.

A workspace in a side wing of the space reminded me of the workroom of "Project Runway," where was introduced to Andy South two years ago. She could have easily taken her business to China, but created the workspace to make the bigger commitment of keeping her line "made in Hawaii."

In addition to the ready-to-wear being showcased at the Atelier, Andy’s plans include a small collection of ready-to-wear bridal gowns, as well as offering Hawaii and destination brides the opportunity to have a gown designed especially for them. A flagship retail space is also in the works.

For now, visits to Andy South Atelier are by appointment only. Call (808) 744-1167 or visit info@AndySout.com. Or shop at shop.AndySouth.com.

Congratulations Andy!

Serenity at the entryway.

The workspace is bright and airy.

The patterns.

This ensemble is so chic in balancing the simplicity of a plain cotton blouse and the theatricality of a floor-length trumpet skirt.

A fiery creation.

From left, Jena Kissinger, Amanda Morris and Hifi's Toby Portner.

Andy South's mother Nora Sisounthone, left, and Pacific Gateway Center executive director Dr. Tin Myaing Thein, who gave Andy her first workspace at the center.

Tiare Thompson, left, and Lacy Matsumoto in the courtyard at 12 S. King St.

Matty Wong, left, and Cory Mira entertained in the courtyard.

Brassiere Du Vin chef Marco Elder's seared scallops with grapefruit sauce, and below, tomato-garlic gazpacho.

Honolulu Community College's Karen Hastings shows the sleeve of a dress made for her by Andy South. Hastings found the fabric in Toronto and couldn't resist the Halloween-ready combination of bones and poisonous flora.

Stylist and artist Douglas Jago.

Transparency, beads, sequins and a sparkling headdress in another Andy South creation.

More South designs.

Some mighty bright thread.

Mannequins awaiting South's future creations.