Oskar’s Boutique a Treasure Trove in Kilauea’s Heart

Oskar’s Boutique owner Annie Sadler and her child Haven.

Hidden in the corner of Kilauea Plantation Center, Oskar’s Boutique offers a window to the souls of many local and Mainland artists.

“I’m always trying to find things that you don’t find on island, it’s like a treasure trove,” owner Annie Saddler said of her business. “Even my non-local designers are usually really small, they’re not easily found online.”

Saddler bought Oskar’s Boutique a couple years ago, and kept the name and the concept of the original store that opened in 2008. But since taking over, Sadler has doubled and diversified the store’s inventory, especially in the jewelry section, where at least 90 percent of the jewelry are from local artists.

A quick tour through the store reveals a warm organic, earthly feel.

“I like supporting people who are trying to do something different with their creativity,” Sadler said. “Sometimes they’re using all natural fibers or organic fibers, and they care about the environment, so it’s a little combination of that.”

Treasures hard to find elsewhere are magically at arms reach at Oskar’s. The store carries hand-painted pareos, purses stamped with island scenery, one-of-a-kind T-shirts, sunglasses with readers designed by Kilauea residents, locally designed dresses, fish pillows made in Kalaheo, cute kerchiefs, sachets, hats painted or designed on island, keiki clothing and even hand-made underwear.

An artist herself, Sadler said she likes having a showcase for small and local artists, and connecting them with the community.

“And then there are new and emerging designers who sometimes don’t know where to start,” she said.

Her business, Saddler said, is really about interacting with people, helping them find something unique that makes them feel better, whether it’s a piece of jewelry, or a “cool book” she discovered, or a local designer’s outfit.

“I want them to feel better when they come in, even if they don’t buy anything, they come in and get inspired,” she said.

Oskar’s Boutique is open Monday to Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. The store is at 4270 B Kilauea Road, in the old stone building on the way to Kilauea Lighthouse.

Visit www.oskarsboutique.com for more information.