About

Discover the story behind Waioha Collections, where founder Taylin Nishida turned a passion for creativity into a brand that celebrates Hawaii, body positivity, and self-expression. A girl from the Big Island who moved to Oahu to study Marketing at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and started Waioha Collections from her dorm room. Bringing Hawaii styles to local and out-of-state college students. Learn more about her journey and the vision that drives Waioha Collections on our About page.

Celebrate everybody, every shape, every size, & every story!

Growing up, I was always tall and skinny, which made it difficult to find clothes that fit me the way I wanted. Pants were often too short, tops didn't fit quite right, and many clothes just weren't made for my body type. Shopping was frustrating because I usually had to settle for something that fit "well enough" instead of something that made me feel confident. As I got older, I realized that I wasn't the only one who struggled. People of all shapes and sizes have their own challenges when it comes to finding clothes that fit comfortably and make them feel good about themselves.

When I started Waioha Collections, I wanted to create more than just a clothing brand. I wanted to build a community where everyone feels seen, included, and celebrated. Fashion should make people feel confident, not insecure, and I believe everyone deserves to wear clothes that reflect who they are without feeling limited by their body type. Every piece is designed with the idea that no two bodies are the same, and that's what makes each person unique.

Our Mission

Waioha Collections was founded in September 2025 to celebrate body positivity - every shape, every size, and every story! Whether you're tall, petite, curve, slim, or somewhere in between, I hope you can find something that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and proud of who you are.

From our designs to our community, we uplift and celebrate everyone, making sure every person feels seen, valued, and confident.

About Taylin

How it Started

Aloha! My name is Taylin and I am the owner of Waioha Collections. I was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii and have always been an island girl at heart. I discovered sewing during my junior year of high school and quickly fell in love with the creativity that came with making something by hand.

After I graduated for high school in 2023, I was accepted into the Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawaii at Manoa to pursue a BBA in Marketing. Like many first year college students, I wasn't completely sure what I wanted my future to look like. I know, however, that I wanted to build something meaningful that reflected my identity, my home, and the values I grew up with.

I challenged myself to complete my degree in just three years, and through hard work, patience, and perseverance, I made that goal a reality. Along the way, I decided it was finally time to turn my love for sewing into something bigger.

Waioha Collections officially launched in September 2025 from my college dorm room. My very first large order came after asking the University of Hawaii at Manoa Color Guard team if they would be interested in custom palaka shorts to wear during game days and practices. 13 members placed orders and although I faced many challenges with my first production run, every mistake became an opportunity to learn. Through countless hours of sewing, problem solving, and determination, I developed not only my skills but also a passion for creating clothing that brings people together.

Since then, Waioha Collections has continued to grow beyond what I imagined. From collaborating with other local businesses and creators to participating in fashion shows and expanding into new clothing styles, every milestone has been possible because of the incredible support from my customers, friends, family, and community.

Today, every piece is thoughtfully designed to reflect Hawaii's culture while encouraging confidence and self-love. Whether you're from the islands or simple carry Hawaii in your heart, I hope Waioha Collections helps you feel connected to home and reminds you that your story deserves to be celebrated.

Mahalo for supporting my small business and for being part of this journey. I can't wait to continue growing with all of you.

With love,

Taylin