HONOLULU — A visit to Iolani Palace is a step back in time for all who pass through its doors. Now visitors can view reproductions of King Kalakaua’s suit worn at his coronation on Feb. 12, 1883, and his masonic apron that debuted at Iolani Palace on the king’s 185th birthday on Nov. 16, 2021. The royal reproduction was created by historic dress designer Iris Viacrusis.

What You Need To Know

  • Iolani Palace is a registered National Historic Landmark and the only official royal residence in the U.S. 

  • King Kalakaua was the first reigning monarch to travel around the world and built Iolani Palace in 1882 to enhance the prestige of Hawaii overseas and to mark Hawaii’s status as a modern nation

  • Complimentary tickets for kamaaina are offered once a month, and residents can choose from the Guided Tour of Self-Led Audio Tour; Kamaaina Sundays are on hold until further notice

  • Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday with different tours available on different days; reservations for tours can be made online, 808-522-0822

“It’s a fitting tribute to introduce King Kalakaua’s Coronation Suit and Masonic Apron on his birthday, just as we dress Iolani Palace each year to commemorate his 50th Jubilee,” said Paula Akana, executive director of The Friends of Iolani Palace. “While the originals have been lost to time, through the talents of Iris Viacrusis we are able to enrich the stories shared with guests with these garments that have been meticulously recreated with incredible historic accuracy.”

Viacrusis created four other garments in the palace’s Alii Garment Reproduction Project; these two are the latest for the project.

“Though King Kalakaua was inspired by Western and European fashion, he incorporated Native Hawaiian elements creating a style that was unique to our monarchs,” said Viacrusis. “Throughout history, fashion has been a form of expression that everyone can relate to. Bringing these pieces to life allows a new generation to connect with Hawaii’s royal past in a tangible way. It’s an honor to help bridge the gap between past and present.”

Viacrusis studied Edwardian and Victorian fashion in Paris and conducted extensive research of historical documents and photos, as well as similar Victorian-era attire to recreate the detail of the original garments.

The Coronation Suit was funded by the Grand Naniloa Resort Tower Development and the Masonic Apron by Paul Crisostomo. Additional donations were also received from Ani Lontoc, Junior Grand Warden Lodge of Hawaii, and Sis Eva Trinka, Worthy Matron Harmony Chapter No. 4-Order of the Ester Stars.