Whether you travel to Hawaii or are planning a summer luau, having leis to hand out is a lovely way to start the night. While leis are commonly seen today as a flower necklace, the styling and wearing of leis are an ancient tradition from the Polynesians.

History of the Hawaiian Lei

When Polynesian sailors migrated to the Hawaiian Islands, they carried the lei tradition with them. The original lei construction included feathers, shells, and even bones. These were a method of adornment and of conveying the status of the wearer.

A Custom of Aloha

The Maile lei, built of twining vines, was often worn to a meeting between tribal chiefs. When the agreement was reached, the leis would be woven together as a sign of friendship. 

Today, leis are given in greeting. They are simply an open expression of welcome and should be draped over the shoulders, whether you are just arriving at the airport or enjoying luaus on Kauai.

Lei Etiquette

When greeted with a lei, be aware that you should always accept the welcome and the gift. To turn down a lei is considered quite rude, as is removing the lei in front of the person who gave it to you. Hawaiian leis are often used in celebrations, such as for a birthday or a graduation.

For those who struggle with severe allergies, it is possible to refuse the lei. Be sure to do it with a smile and let the giver know that you appreciate the welcome, but you cannot handle the pollen. Be aware that many givers now hand out silk flower leis to reduce the risk of a reaction.

How Were Leis Used?

Early lei wearers could wear them as a sign of abundance, of welcome, or power. They were often given as a guesting ritual. For a stranger coming into the home of another Hawaiian native to receive a lei gave a message of welcome. Not giving a lei meant the opposite.

How We Know Leis Today

Our understanding of the Hawaiian lei is the concept of Aloha, or love and peace. To wish someone aloha and give them a lei means that they are truly welcome in your business or home. Aloha is also used as a goodbye. 

Ways to Honor the Tradition

Making your own leis is an ideal way to celebrate the tradition. If you purchase hawaiian leis , consider adding a note on a string to commemorate the event or just to share your feelings of aloha. While we know the lei is a necklace of flowers, remember that they were once built of many items from the natural world. If you are making leis for a wedding reception, consider adding pearls or small gold rings to increase the symbology.

To wear a lei is an indication that you have been welcomed and celebrated. Ideally, a lei giver will already be wearing one, which indicates that you are part of the clan or family. Unless you absolutely cannot tolerate the material in the lei, always accept it as a sign of welcome and inclusion.