It is not often that a corporate history can be told as a love story, but the roots of "Go Barefoot" manufacturing are founded on true love and affection.

In 1946, World War II had come to a close, and Isamu Takabuki of Hawaii formed Iolani Sportswear and began manufacturing Hawaiian "Aloha" garments. He also purchased the Aloha Boeki screenprinting company in Kyoto, Japan to print his fabric with designs by Hawaiian artists.

His daughter Alice, fell in love with Clarence Hara, and our love story begins. In 1954, the lovers eloped to Southern California, and in the process deeply hurt Isamu. Three years later, Craig Hara (now president) was born and soon peace was made within the family. Isamu, the grandfather, sold his Hawaii businesses and moved to California. In 1957, Clarence and Isamu formed a new company and incorporated Fuji Import Company, Inc. They wholesaled imported Hawaiian shirts and robes from Japan made from silk, rayon, and cottons. Today these garments are highly prized collectors items.

As the business grew, Clarence decided to expand and he applied for membership in MAGIC. Refused on the grounds that garments (at that time) were required to be made in the U.S.A. and preferably in California, Clarence immediately hired sewing contractors and started manufacturing in the Los Angeles garment district. At the same time, realizing that "Fuji Import Co." was not a viable name to merchandise Hawaiian sportswear, or to be accepted for membership in MAGIC, he selected Mr. Hawaii Inc. as the new company name. Upon acceptance into MAGIC, Clarence volunteered his time and services and became very active in the MAGIC organization. He served as chairman of various show committees and served on the Board of Directors for 27 years, and was president of MAGIC from 1988 through 1989.