The Hawaiian head wreath is called a haku lei (or simply haku), a lei worn on the head rather than around the neck. In Hawaiian culture, a haku lei is a symbol of honor, love, and respect, often given for special occasions or worn during celebrations and ceremonies.
What Is a Haku Lei?
A haku lei is a type of lei made by braiding or weaving fresh flowers, leaves, and other natural materials onto a base of vines, ferns, or fabric. Unlike the more common neck lei (which is strung or stitched), a haku is flat and designed to rest on the crown of the head. The word haku in Hawaiian means “to braid” or “to weave,” which describes the construction method.
Traditional haku lei can be made entirely from native plants, such as the maile vine, ferns, and the yellow or orange blossoms of the ʻilima. Modern versions often include plumeria, orchids, rose buds, and other decorative flowers. The style can range from a simple, single braid of greenery to an elaborate crown with multiple layers of blooms.
Cultural Significance and History
Lei have been part of Hawaiian culture for centuries, and the haku is one of the oldest forms. In ancient Hawaiʻi, wearing a head lei was a way to honor the gods, mark a significant life event, or show respect to a chief. The haku was also worn by dancers (hula dancers) and by warriors before battle. The materials used often carried symbolic meaning—for example, maile represented peace and respect, while ʻilima was associated with royalty and strength.
Today, haku lei are still given as gifts for graduations, weddings, birthdays, and other milestones. They are also worn by hula dancers during performances, and by visitors who want to participate in a Hawaiian tradition. It is important to note that in Hawaiian culture, a lei is not just an accessory; it is a gesture of aloha (love, compassion, and mutual regard). When you receive a haku, it is customary to accept it graciously and wear it with pride.
How a Haku Lei Is Made
Making a haku lei is a skilled craft that requires practice. The process generally involves:
- Selecting fresh, flexible materials—vines like maile or ferns serve as the base, and flowers are chosen for color and durability.
- Laying out the base and adding flowers one at a time, wrapping the stems with thread or raffia to secure them.
- Braiding or weaving the base so that the flowers are evenly distributed and the lei forms a flat, circular shape.
- Finishing the ends by tucking them in or tying them with a ribbon so the lei can be worn comfortably.
In a traditional haku, the flowers are placed so they face upward when worn, creating a crown effect. Some haku are made with a “waterfall” style, where flowers cascade down the back of the head.
How to Wear a Haku Lei
Wearing a haku lei is simple, but there are a few guidelines:
- Place it gently on your head, with the braided base resting on your hair and the flowers facing up.
- It can be worn at the crown, tilted slightly back, or even low on the forehead, depending on the style and your preference.
- If the haku has long trailing elements, they can be left to hang down the back.
- Do not wear a haku lei like a necklace—it is specifically designed for the head.
If you receive a haku lei, it is polite to wear it for the rest of the event or at least for a good portion of it. Taking it off immediately can be seen as disrespectful.
How to Choose a Haku Lei
When selecting or ordering a haku lei, consider the occasion and the message you want to convey. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Occasion: For a wedding, white or pastel flowers are common; for a graduation, bright colors like yellow or orange are popular.
- Flower type: Plumeria and orchids are fragrant and long-lasting; ʻilima is delicate and traditional but wilts quickly.
- Size: Haku lei come in different widths—from a thin, subtle band to a wide, dramatic crown.
- Freshness: Fresh flowers are beautiful but perishable; they should be made close to the event and kept cool until worn.
If you are buying a haku in Hawaiʻi, you can often find them at flower stands, farmers’ markets, or order from a local florist. On the mainland, many Hawaiian cultural events have vendors who make them on-site.
Common Problems and Care
Because haku lei are made of natural materials, they have a short lifespan. Common issues include:
- Wilting: Flowers can wilt quickly, especially in hot weather. Keep the lei in a cool, shaded place until you are ready to wear it.
- Browning: Some flowers, like white orchids, may turn brown at the edges if they are bruised or exposed to too much sun.
- Slipping: A haku may slide off if it is too loose or if your hair is very smooth. You can secure it with bobby pins.
To extend the life of a haku, you can mist it lightly with water and store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator (but not for more than a day or two). Some people dry their haku lei to keep as a memento, though the colors will fade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a haku lei and a regular lei?
A regular lei is worn around the neck and is usually strung, stitched, or twisted. A haku lei is worn on the head and is braided or woven. The construction and placement are different, and each has its own cultural significance.
Can I make a haku lei myself?
Yes, with practice. You will need fresh flowers, a flexible base like raffia or vine, and some floral tape or thread. There are many tutorials online, but the skill is best learned from someone experienced, as the technique takes time to master.
How long does a haku lei last?
Typically, a haku lei made with fresh flowers lasts one to three days if kept cool and misted. The exact lifespan depends on the types of flowers used and the climate. Some flowers, like plumeria, last longer than delicate ones like ʻilima.
Is it disrespectful to wear a haku lei if I am not Hawaiian?
No, it is not disrespectful. Lei are given as a gesture of welcome and aloha, and anyone can wear them. However, it is important to treat the lei with respect—wear it, care for it, and do not discard it carelessly. In Hawaiian culture, a lei should be returned to the earth (by burying or leaving it in nature) when it is no longer fresh.
What does a haku lei symbolize?
A haku lei symbolizes honor, love, and respect. It is often given to mark a special achievement or to show affection. The specific flowers used can add additional meaning—for example, white flowers often represent purity, while yellow flowers can symbolize friendship.
Related
- Tsukuyomi: The Moon Deity in Japanese Mythology
- Moon Goddess in Egyptian Mythology: Who Was She?
- Egyptian Moon God: Khonsu, Thoth, and Their Roles
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