T-shirts with an 'aina message all too often look like education posters on boxy Hanes Beefy T's. Kealopiko alters the local shirtscape with its stylish designs on soft cotton, slim-cut vintage-finish T's. The contemporary designs highlight native species such as the 'enuhe hamui'a, pictured, Hawai'i's only endemic caterpillar. The new company is the brainchild of three hard-working wahine. Ane Bakutis and Hina Kneubuhl are botanists, while Jamie Makasobe works at Paepae o He'eia — and all are Island-stylish. "We want people in the taro patch and downtown to feel comfortable," says Bakutis. Not yet in stores, Kealopiko will be at the Honolulu Gift Fair at Blaisdell Center on Friday and Saturday.

AIR KISS

Metaphorically exchange breath with someone through Solomon Enos' "honi cards." The cover reads: He makani hina le'a wale ke aloha. (Love is a wind that blows and exists favorably for all.) They're good for any occasion, but the (unsaccharine) sentiment is just right for Christmas. Available at Native Books/Na Mea Hawai'i at Ward Warehouse and Shop Pacifica at the Bishop Museum, $3.

INK PAD

Mad for tats? Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co., the Las Vegas spot featured in the A&E reality series "Inked," opened its first branch in Waikiki. Owner Carey Hart — motocross superstar and husband of pop tough Pink — will make it to town a couple times a year. The Hawai'i shop has four art stations, two private rooms, and a lounge. Three artists specialize in Polynesian and Asian designs. Tattoo talents Lacey McClellan, left, and Clark North will drop in next month. Appointments are available. The 411: 2301 Kuhio Ave., 922-3282, www.hartandhuntingtontattoo.com.