Tariffs, Textiles & Thoughtful Choices

Earth Day is such a good reminder for all of us to pause and reflect—on how we live, what we consume, and the impact we leave behind. I wouldn’t say I’m a hardcore environmentalist, but I am someone who wants to leave this world better than I found it. So, every year, this day gives me a little nudge to be more intentional.

At home, my kids and I talk a lot about how our everyday choices add up. We recycle, we buy food that’s grown closer to home (less travel = less impact), and we support local whenever we can. Even when it's something small, like spending the extra $25 for reef-safe sunscreen—it all adds up.

Since my personal values are intertwined with the brand, a lot of this carries over into how I run the business. Supporting local has always been important to me. For years we produced everything right here in Hawaii, and even though we've moved production to California, it was a conscious choice to keep things close and Made in the USA.

Did I know tariffs on imported goods were going to become a big deal? Nope, not all. But I did know that investing in our local economy—whether it’s in Hawaii or California—feels like the right thing to do. If we can create jobs and keep quality high, we’ll do it for as long as we can.

We’ve also been working behind the scenes to source more sustainable fabrics. We’ve started collaborating with a few California-based mills to develop materials that match the drape and feel we love—but in a way that’s better for the planet. These new fibers—like Siro and Micro Modal—are made from more natural sources and break down more gently in the environment. They’ll also make your clothes feel even softer and last longer. These updates are coming, and I can’t wait for you to experience them!

On a recent trip to LA, I also connected with some incredible new factories and suppliers who share our values—people doing things the right way with eco-friendly dye techniques, lower water usage, and a real dedication to quality. There’s so much to look forward to! These changes take time (fashion moves a little slower when you’re doing things consciously), but our goal is to transition our entire line by the end of 2025. Until then, we’re taking small steps, one change at a time.

We’re also exploring a California-based warehouse to ship orders from, which would help cut down on the back-and-forth shipping we currently do between Hawaii and the mainland. It’s a big shift in how we operate—but not in why we do what we do. The heart of our brand is still rooted right here in Hawaii, with our values, our people, and our community. But this next phase could open up incredible opportunities, and I’m so excited for what’s ahead.

So don’t worry—there won’t be any major price hikes from us because of tariffs. We’re still proudly 100% Made in the USA, using high-quality fabrics that we feel good about. But yes, change is coming. If you’ve been with us for a while, you know we’ve grown a lot over the years—through style shifts, new launches, openings & closings of our stores. And through it all, your support has meant everything. But shifting with the times is how we grow, and it's how I hope to bring these clothes—and this mission—to more women across the country, and maybe one day, around the world.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for being on this journey with me, for supporting me, and for believing in what we’re building. I’m so deeply grateful. And I hope the choices we make here at Allison Izu continue to leave a mark—not just on the planet, but on you too.

with love + light, 
Allison