When you think of Hawaiian fancy dress, the first thing that comes to mind is probably colourful garlands, or leis. ‘Lei’ is the traditional Hawaiian word for a wreath or garland, and the most popular form of lei is a chain of flowers worn around the neck, often used to greet visitors to the islands. However, a lei can take many different forms, and could consist of a series of shells draped over the shoulders, plastic beads, or virtually anything else you can link together and wear.

A perfect accompaniment to any Hawaiian themed fancy dress costume, garlands and leis are a colourful and easily customisable way of standing out at the party. If you’re the host you could even stock up beforehand and greet each one of your guests at the door with a traditional Hawaiian kiss as you present them with their lei. The presentation of a lei or garland has long been a symbol of affection for a friend or visitor, and is a perfect way to introduce partygoers to your Hawaiian fancy dress soiree.

As far as materials go, a lei can be made out of pretty much anything imaginable. You could either buy or make your own, out of fresh or plastic flowers, seashells, nuts, beads, coloured paper decorations, feathers or whatever you have close to hand. If you do choose to make your own, all you need to do is take some sturdy cotton and a needle and carefully thread through the centre of each item on the lei.