Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Hawaiian Shirt

02 Dec.,2024

 

Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Hawaiian Shirt

'It's Official: The bad vacation shirt is cool again,' proclaimed an article in last March's issue of GQ Magazine. Author Megan Gustashaw's shock was evident, and understandable. The Aloha Shirt (For that is what they call the garment in Hawaii. You know the old joke about what they call Chinese food in China? Same idea.) had long been consigned to the back of your Grandpa's closet, a tacky bit of fashion flotsam against whom cool had been granted a permanent restraining order.

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But then something weird happened. Some hip young teenyboppers decided that bright colors and tropical patterns were pretty cool, and before you could say 'fashion is fickle,' trendy celebrities and unsmiling runway models everywhere were trading their starchy button-downs for the silky soft comfort of the Islands.

I couldn't have been happier. You see, I had long counted myself among the true believers, we who mourned the Aloha Shirt's undeserved fall from grace. For years, we looked in vain for a return to the enlightened age of yesteryear, when the thought of floral prints evoked mustachioed private investigators who drove Ferraris and bantered with fussy British Majordomos. It was a beautiful dream, but one that I feared would never come true.

It has, dear readers, it has. The Aloha Shirt is back, and to celebrate, I've put together a guide to help you find a good one. There's many an almost-but-not-quite shirt out there on the market these days, but only those that sport these features are the real deal.

Essential Elements: The Collar and Buttons

A true Aloha Shirt has coconut buttons and a 'camp' collar. The buttons are easy enough to spot; if they're brown in color and organic in texture, you're good to go.

The camp collar is seldom seen on anything besides Aloha Shirts these days, but it has a long and distinguished history. Favored in tropical climates, the collar is identified by its low profile'it doesn't stand up against the neck, but lays flat around it'and the way it extends downward to include the shirt front. This creates the appearance of tiny 'lapels,' and makes it so that the highest button you could possibly fasten is at least one position lower than that of a shirt with a standard collar. This frees up the neck and allows air to circulate through the shirt much more readily. Heat doesn't stand a chance.

No buts about this one. If the collar and buttons aren't right, it's not an Aloha Shirt. Moving on.

Often Overlooked: Material and Fit

There are three types of fabric from which a true Aloha Shirt is made: cotton, silk, and rayon. All three are equally well-suited to tropical climates and wear well. The question of which material is best for you is purely a matter of personal taste. Cotton is the thickest of the three, making for a heavier but more structured shirt. Silk has a certain sheen that appeals to many. Rayon is the lightest of the fabrics, and the most common. The choice is up to you.

Fit is a tricky thing with Aloha Shirts. They are meant to be somewhat loose so that air can circulate in and out. One of the unfortunate legacies of the 'ugly vacation shirt' epoch, however, is that many wanna-be Aloha Shirts are cut like parachutes, and thus aren't flattering in any way whatsoever. Avoid these like the plague. Try for a shirt that's just a bit looser than a formal button-down. Put another way: if you can't bowl, the shirt's too tight. If the sleeves reach down to your elbows, it's too loose.

What It's All About: Choosing the Right Print

An Aloha Shirt's print is its most distinct and'from an enthusiast's perspective'most glorious feature. It is what gets the shirt'and you'noticed. Pattern-wise, the sky's the limit. If you want a shirt depicting Susan B. Anthony fighting a Velociraptor, follow your heart, man. A word of advice, though: be mindful of the shirt's colors. Do they complement one another? Do they look good on you? The answer to those questions will mean the difference between a novelty item you wear to party once and a lifelong partner in crime (or, in Magnum's case, crime-solving).

Well, I'm crowding 800 words, which is as long as an article about something like this ever dare be. Best of luck, my friends. Mahalo!

The Ultimate Guide To Pick The Perfect Hawaiian Shirt

The History of Hawaiian shirts

It all started in the early 20th century when Japanese immigrants arrived in Hawaii to work on the sugar and pineapple plantations. These immigrants brought with them the tradition of wearing colorful, printed shirts called "Kimono" or "Kosode" during festivals and celebrations.

Local tailors in Hawaii were inspired by the vibrant patterns and lightweight fabrics of Japanese kimonos and began crafting shirts with similar characteristics. These early Hawaiian shirts featured bold floral motifs, tropical scenes, and other designs inspired by the island's natural beauty and culture.

By the s and s, the Hawaiian shirt had gained popularity among both locals and tourists, becoming a symbol of Hawaii's relaxed lifestyle and exotic allure. Hollywood movies set in Hawaii, like "Waikiki Wedding" starring Bing Crosby, further fueled the Hawaiian shirt craze on the mainland United States.

By the s and s, the Hawaiian shirt had become a cultural icon associated with leisure, escapism, and the spirit of aloha. Celebrities, musicians, and surfers embraced the Hawaiian shirt as a symbol of laid-back style, solidifying its place in popular culture.

Over the years, the Hawaiian shirt has evolved, incorporating new designs, fabrics, and styles while retaining its tropical charm. Today, it remains a beloved garment worn for casual occasions, beach parties, luaus, and vacations. The Hawaiian shirt continues to evoke nostalgia and wanderlust, capturing the essence of Hawaii's enchanting spirit.

Consider the fabric

When choosing a Hawaiian shirt, I always start by considering the fabric. Opting for lightweight, breathable materials like cotton or rayon has always been my preference, as they keep me comfortable in warm weather. I've found that the texture of the fabric can add a lot of character to the shirt; smooth fabrics like cotton offer a classic look, while textured fabrics like slub cotton or linen add a touch of uniqueness.

Design

Prints are where I get to express my personality the most. I love bold and vibrant prints on my Hawaiian shirts, often gravitating towards florals or palm tree motifs. However, I've also experimented with more subtle patterns, finding that they can add versatility to my wardrobe.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Personalized Hawaiian Shirts. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

If you are looking for something more unique and personal, Printerval is the place to go. We will help you create a one-of-a-kind Hawaiian shirt. All you have to do is upload your design and we will ship it to your front door in a few days.

Color

Color plays a big role in my Hawaiian shirt selection process. I've discovered that bright and colorful shirts suit my outgoing personality, but I've also found success with shirts featuring more subdued tones for a more sophisticated look.

Fit is crucial for me when it comes to Hawaiian shirts. I prefer a relaxed, loose fit that allows me to move freely. Ensuring that the shoulder seams sit just right and that the length is appropriate has always been essential for me to feel confident in my shirt.

I've come to appreciate the camp collar for its laid-back vibe, and I tend to lean toward shirts with larger collars for a more retro feel.

Construction

When it comes to construction, I've learned to pay attention to the details. A well-constructed shirt not only looks better but also lasts longer. Checking the stitching and seams, as well as the quality of the buttons, has saved me from buying poorly made shirts in the past.

As for brands and price, I've found that there's a wide range to choose from. While I don't mind splurging on a higher-end brand for exceptional quality, I've also discovered some hidden gems at more affordable prices.

Trying on shirts before buying them has been a game-changer for me. It's helped me avoid the disappointment of purchasing a shirt that looked great on the hanger but didn't fit quite right.

Accessory

Accessorizing my Hawaiian shirt has become one of my favorite parts of putting together an outfit. Whether it's adding a straw hat, a pair of sunglasses, or a tropical-inspired necklace, I've found that the right accessories can take my look to the next level.

Ultimately, wearing a Hawaiian shirt is all about confidence. Embracing the relaxed, carefree spirit of the shirt has always made me feel good, whether I'm on vacation or just enjoying a casual day out.

What to wear with a Hawaiian shirt

When I'm styling a Hawaiian shirt, I often like to start with a comfortable pair of shorts. Whether it's classic chino shorts or denim cutoffs, I find that they complement the relaxed vibe of the shirt perfectly.

For footwear, I'm a big fan of sandals, especially leather ones that add a touch of sophistication to the ensemble. However, on casual days, you'll often find me rocking a pair of worn-in sneakers, which add a cool, laid-back vibe to the outfit.

Accessories play a big role in completing the look for me. I always make sure to grab my favorite pair of aviator sunglasses before heading out the door. They not only shield my eyes from the sun but also add a touch of retro charm to the overall look.

I love adding a straw hat to my outfit, especially on sunny days. It not only adds a tropical flair but also helps keep me cool and protected from the sun's rays.

When it comes to layering, I often reach for a lightweight linen shirt or a denim jacket. It adds an extra dimension to the outfit while keeping me warm on breezy evenings.

But most importantly, I wear my Hawaiian shirt with confidence and a carefree attitude. There's something about the vibrant colors and bold patterns that just make me feel good. So, whether I'm lounging on the beach or grabbing a casual lunch with friends, you can bet I'll be rocking my favorite Hawaiian shirt with pride.

Shop on Printerval

You are still looking for a perfect Hawaiian shirt for this summer vacation? Check out Printerval now and choose from thousands of different Hawaiian shirt designs made by our community. With premium quality and reasonable price, whether you're dreaming of lounging on sun-kissed beaches or sipping cocktails under swaying palm trees, our vibrant and stylish Hawaiian shirts are the perfect choice to elevate your summer style.

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