You’re Sparkling, Baby... Vintage Finds For The Modern Dreamgirl
You probably need a sequined dress. Luckily, Salt has got you covered.
Ladies, let’s get real. Finding the perfect vintage outfit for a night out might be a better love story than finding the perfect man. But let’s face it, it’s not always easy finding pieces that meet the mark on sustainability, vintage-appeal and cuteness. Lucky for us, Maui-babe and lady-boss Brooke Larson designs the perfect handmade vintage-treasures that are almost too pretty to wear! From hand-beaded vintage dresses to unique jewels to bridal bodysuits and everything in between – Salt On The Rocks is the vintage gem we’ve all been looking for!
Salt On The Rocks was inspired by Maui’s incomparable beauty, Larson started by collecting beach findings and found herself completely immersed in the wonders of Hawaii. She began creating jewelry – sterling silver rings and canvas art out of the washed up treasures. From seaglass to seashells and even salted plastic, anything and everything inspired Brooke. “I loved collecting everything on the beach and romanticized the petite sea debris that had survived the voyage” It was not long until customers began romanticizing about Brooke’s detailed pieces too. People from all over wanted to use Brooke’s pieces as wedding bands.
But it was when Larson started planning her own wedding that Salt On The Rocks began to blossom. On her voyage to find the perfect wedding dress, she found it nearly impossible to get a dress that matched her needs – she wanted something that had sequins but also had a beachy vibe, and everything she found was either sooo out of her price range or felt incredibly cheap. So, she made her own.
“Vintage came natural to me after realizing I could make alterations to the dresses to make them more modern and wearable. At an affordable price. Beaded gowns for weddings can cost thousands! So being able to use something that was already made and bring it new life is rewarding. Especially to see how happy customers are with the result.”
Not only are all of Salt On The Rocks’ pieces absolutely to-die-for but the quality is always there. Larson emphasizes that quality, supporting local and ethics go hand-in-hand and are some of the main components that have played a significant role in her brand. “We’re all seeing the damage fast fashion has on our planet and the people. It’s no secret that major production factories treat the employees unethically in the poorest working environments. Keeping things quality and ethically made shows the moral of your brand. You have to hold yourself accountable and educate yourself on what your actions are supporting.” Larson tells HOKU. She supports and sources all of her pieces from small seamstresses instead of going to factories – that’s where the quality is, she says. When creating, she always keeps her own wants in mind, often asking herself “Is this something I would personally wear?” She says that it helps her stay true to her brand and last longer as opposed to being influenced by trends.
As a local brand, Larson also highlighted the importance of supporting other local brands when you’re buying anything. Through Salt On The Rocks, she’s had the opportunity to connect with a vast number of talented Maui creatives who she’s been able to share her dreamy vision with. “Supporting local artists builds the community around you. Buying something from a major retail corporation isn’t rewarding the environment, community or the future of your home. I think more people want to connect with the artist and brand. I recently became a part of a store called “The Monarch Collective” they are providing a group of local artists to showcase their collections. Bringing the customer and the artist together. It’s a rewarding concept and I love this idea of retail.” Says Larson. And we completely agree! By supporting local you are not only strengthening your community, but you’re connecting with artists on a deeper level -- something you definitely don’t get when you make purchases from fast-fashion brands. You become part of making their dreams a reality and you get something super unique in the process!
In addition to taking inspiration from Hawaii’s untamed beauty, Larson also connects her pieces to where she came from. She grew up in Arizona and Utah and tells HOKU that some of her pieces are certainly drawn from a little bit of a western influence – emphasizing that turquoise and silver are some of her favorite materials to work with. And we absolutely love it!
Salt On The Rocks is a magical love story between a 70’s chic vibe and a classic Hollywood approach. From a vintage-inspired tailoring to a bright, bold and marvelous blue-sequined dress – it’s no surprise that girls from across the country are drooling to get their hands on her one of a kind handmade pieces. With effortless silhouettes that not only look incredible, but feel even better – Salt On The Rock’s is Maui’s gem for vintage pieces made to last.
