Newt at the Royal – Honolulu, Hawaii

Wrapping up my series on the Royal Hawaiian, I feature Newt, a small jewel-like shop, located on the corner of the hotel. It’s away from the other stores but visible, nevertheless, from the front yard featuring a grand tree.

The place looks timeless to me. A shop that won’t look out-of-place during the romantic era of steamship travel, some 80 years ago. It is clearly upscale, featuring legendary Montecristi Panama hats for men and women, along with vintage Aloha shirts. I did some research but couldn’t find how long this store has been in business. Perhaps it’s new. Looking faux-old just to entice the desire for the good old days.

A closeup of the staged window was also worthwhile. A brilliant blend of luxury, nostalgia and kitsch. The reflections of palm trees off the window give this image a feeling of a double exposure.