Prop yourself on one of the white couches or cross your legs on the concrete floor — with a glass of wine — as energy, incense, and music fill the room every Wednesday night at thirtyninehotel. The increasingly popular Rising Melody event is a weekly singer-songwriting forum started by brother and sister duo Bret (aka Biku) and Janea Shimabuku, above. They've gathered a group of musicians who rotate as the evening's featured performer — sort of a pre-planned open-mike night. Listen as the Shimabukus and their friends share acoustic folky tunes, sometimes with an Island reggae vibe. "Music is an artistic vehicle for communication beyond words," says Biku. Let them speak to you.

Rising Melody: 8 p.m.-midnight Wednesdays; 599-2552; thirtyninehotel; $3 before 8 p.m. $5 after.

PERFECT FIT

So you're 5-feet-nothing and want to feel like a supermodel? Allison Izu Nagato, left, may have the jeans for you. Next month, the O'ahu born-and-bred designer will launch a line aimed at the height-challenged. "The petite denim line was inspired because I'm shorter, and as a designer I want to create something flattering for girls my size," says Izu. The wide-legged, skinny and boot-cut jeans will be available online and in select boutiques. Can't wait? The Fashion Institute of Technology graduate's Reincarnation line of tops featuring appliques cut from vintage kimono and obi (she's wearing one at left), is already in stores.

Find it: www.izushop.com; Rockabella, 510 Pi'ikoi St., 597-8715; Split Obsession, Koko Marina Center, 395-3380.

— Lacy Matsumoto