The Barn at SALT in Kakaʻako turns into a runway Friday night as Out of the Blue Swim hosts its annual fashion show, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show itself kicking off at 8 p.m. Guests can expect more than just swimwear on display, with photo walls, a photobooth, drinks, and a lineup of local vendors rounding out the evening.
Out of the Blue Swim was founded by Makena Gallagher, who started the brand with the goal of making swimwear less intimidating and more fun, according to KHON2. The fashion show itself was created to give people a space to celebrate themselves, embrace confidence, and enjoy fashion and community, per the same report. Everyone is welcome to attend, and tickets will be available for purchase at the door.
A Brand Built on Inclusive Sizing
Gallagher launched Out of the Blue Swim in 2021. By its second collection, released in January 2022, the brand offered sizes XXS through 5XL, according to its About page. The company says its swimwear and clothing are ethically handmade in Bali, Indonesia.
The brand says it has used recycled materials since its launch and describes sustainability as an ongoing goal.
Local Vendors Join the Runway
The vendor selection adds shopping to the event, KHON2 reported. Kiyo Embroidery is offering personalized tote bag design, while Kikinis will feature custom block printing. Shop Hiva sells haircare products, and Shop Tats makes handmade jewelry.
A SALT at Our Kakaʻako event listing dated November 21, 2025, describes an Out of the Blue Swim show as the venue’s fourth annual runway event, with local small businesses, food, and drinks.
A Small-Business Backdrop
A 2014 Hawai‘i Community Development Authority forum document, citing a DBEDT study, said Kakaʻako had 1,260 businesses at the time, more than 90 percent of them with fewer than 100 employees. This is a historical snapshot, not a current count of businesses or retail establishments in the district, according to the Hawai‘i Community Development Authority document.
The show brings a runway presentation together with shopping and other event activities at The Barn. That mix reflects the brand’s stated aim of making swimwear feel more approachable while creating a space for community.
