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.