Is there anything more stylish and playful than a Hawaii shirt? Cosy and comfortable, it’s the perfect off-duty look all year round, but particularly in the warmer months. However, its origins weren’t so light and bubbly, as this piece of clothing became extremely popular during The Great Depression; but shortly after, the shirt developed a cult-like status and slowly started to sweep the mainstream. Even the King of rock n roll, Elvis Presley himself, began rocking vacation shirts in the 60s.
However, this staple piece of casual wear has endured for a long time, as after the 60s, Hawaiian shirts were then primarily affiliated with surf culture. Vintage lovers then embraced the trend, and now the shirt is at the forefront of the ‘Dad on Vacation’ aesthetic.
Hawaiian shirt FAQs
Are Hawaiian shirts actually Hawaiian?
Hawaiian shirts did actually originate in the 1920s in Hawaii when local Japanese women adapted kimono fabric to use in men’s tops. This piece of clothing became extremely popular in Hawaii; however, its initial name was the 'Aloha' shirt.
What is Hawaiian Shirt Friday?
Hawaiian Shirt Friday is where many corporate companies encouraged their staff to wear Hawaiian or Vacation clothing to work on Fridays to get them excited for the weekend. It's now a common workplace tradition by celebrating the end of the workweek by wearing casual attire (although not necessarily Hawaiian shirts) to the office on Fridays.
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If you’re looking to upgrade your vacation wardrobe (or just want to feel like you’re on vacay during your daily grind), we’ve rounded up which brands are creating the most stylish and fun Hawaiian shirts.
We’ve listed everything, from easy button-down collar shirts with minimalistic design to retro camp shirts with unique floral prints. You’re bound to find exactly what you need for when you’re sipping Pina Coladas by the poolside… or at home on your couch.
Shinesty
1/13Price: From $49
Sizes: S-XXXL
Customer Reviews: “Love this product! The fit was great and the quality of the material really holds up.”
Shinesty is all about creating menswear for those who like to party and let loose. Known for their funky colours and patterns, their apparel is super stylish while still laidback, guaranteed for them to feel comfortable. Make sure you check out Shinesty Hawaiian shirts as they offer a diverse collection of striking and bold designs. These shirts are the perfect way to start your holiday in the sun.
Kenny Flowers
2/13Price: From $50
Sizes: S-XXXL
Customer Reviews: “Best shirt ever! Love the print. Very soft and comfortable.”
Taking vacation style to the next level, Kenny Flowers allows vintage fashion lovers to add a little nostalgia to their casual wardrobe. Known for its bold and sleek styles, Kenny Flowers clothes will bring a pop of colour to your vacation.
Kenny Flowers is creating some of the best Hawaiian shirts made from premium materials and fabrics. Their fresh, versatile long sleeve and short sleeve Hawaiian shirts accommodate to a wide range of climates. Many of these shirts also come with 4-way stretch fabric geared to move with you.
Kahala
3/13Price: From $94
Sizes: XS-XXXL
Customer Reviews: “Great looking, well made and reasonably priced.”
If you’re after an authentic, vintage Hawaiian shirt, then look no further than Kahala. Founded in 1936 in Honolulu, Hawaii by George Brangier and Nat Norfleet, this family-owned business is committed to making the finest vacation apparel reflecting the Waikiki beach spirit.
For decades Kahala has worked with the same Japanese fabric mills to supply garments with exclusive rayon filament for an iconic look. They have a diverse range of Hawaiian shirts offering both traditional and electric designs combining quality fabric with the best prints. If you’re looking for an eye-catching floral print, Kahala has heaps of shirts that will make you stand out.
Boohoo Man
4/13Price: From $40
Sizes: XS-XXL
Customer Reviews: “Great quality items for a great price.”
Boohoo Man has a massive line of menswear, offering quality clothing for a great price. Check out their online store as Boohoo have Hawaiian shirts available in various colours, styles and patterns. If you’re looking for a modern Hawaiian shirt, they have minimalist designs perfect for a low key look. However, if you’re searching for a bold vintage print, they have a variety of shirts available showcasing playful floral designs that will surely turn heads this summer as they have just the right amount of flair.
Tropical Bros
5/13Price: From $35
Sizes: S-XXXL
Tropical Bros was founded in 2015 in the city of Chicago. The company’s vision was to create a comfortable line of clothing for social events and parties. Tropical Bros are dedicated to producing high-quality and stylish clothing to make you feel your absolute best.
Tropical Bros has a great line of classic Aloha shirts that are soft, breathable and machine washable, suitable for warm weather. These shirts capture tropical vibes while being super functional with stretch material, so movements are effortless and smooth. Also, these Hawaiian shirts feature a moisture-wicking outer shell.
Tommy Bahama
6/13Price: From $30
Sizes: XS-XXXL
Customer Reviews: “Tommy Bahama is absolutely fantastic. It is undeniably one of the single most comfortable shirts I have ever worn.”
Tommy Bahama is an American manufacturer of casual men’s clothes, established in the early nineties. The company has over 160 stores globally and even launched a Tommy Bahama Bar at Yankee Stadium. Tommy Bahama is a go-to brand for casual wear, as they effortlessly combine luxe with a laidback aesthetic, perfect for capturing the classic dad on vacation look.
Delve into their online store as they endless styles of Hawaiian shirts that range from classic simple camp collar shirts to pieces that feature bold and daring prints. These shirts are also premium cotton, made to feel super soft and cosy on the skin.
Bonobos
7/13Price: From $59
Sizes: S-XXL
Customer Reviews: “Super cool short sleeved shirt. Comfortable and yet not boring. Great quality.”
Bonobos started as an e-commerce apparel store in 2017 when the idea of online shopping seemed foreign. Bonobos quickly developed a large following as they were recognised for their super comfy and flattering apparel, making your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Bonobos Hawaiian shirts showcase a classic button-down collar with flexible material, making it easy for you to move in. If you’re looking for a striking vacation shirt, you can’t go wrong with Bonobos, as their line features bold and rich colours geared for you to stop traffic.
Hawailili
8/13Price: From $7
Sizes: S-4XL
Customer Reviews: “This is the best Hawaiian shirt in this price range!”
Hawailili is a vast online fashion store founded in 2018. Despite being a relatively new brand, Hawailili has cultivated a loyal and devoted customer base in America, Europe, and Australia, recognised for its quality and fashionable clothing, showcasing fresh, independent designers.
Their vacation shirts are available in long and short sleeves in a range of prints and patterns. They have abstract, eccentric button-down vacation shirts, perfect for the modern man. Hawailili designs are also super functional as they include lightweight shirts, keeping you cool in the hot weather.
Romwe
9/13Price: From $14
Sizes: S-XL
Customer Reviews: “I love the color perfect for beach.”
Romwe is an online store delivering the latest trends for the most affordable prices. This is the perfect store for those looking for a great Hawaiian shirt without breaking the bank. Romwe has everything from long sleeve, retro Hawaiian shirts to simplistic designs, suitable for almost every occasion. These shirts are incredibly versatile as they can blend into either beachwear or streetwear attire.
Onia
10/13Price: From $150
Sizes: S-XXL
Customer Reviews: “Great Hawaiian shirt. High quality fabric, great print and fit is nice.”
In 2009, Onia was founded by Carl Cunow and Nathan Romano in New York City. Onia is one of the best lifestyle brands around, specialising in great comfort and style. Onia is known for its minimalist aesthetic and clean-cut silhouettes, perfect for your everyday attire.
Onia has a selection of the best Hawaiian shirts for men as they’re superior textiles and fabrics. If you’re looking for a classic Hawaiian shirt that’s super convenient, you’re at the right place as these shirts have an easy button closure, with a straight hem and side splits. These designs are also lightweight and super flexible, the ultimate vacation shirt for outdoor use. If you’re going for a more polished look, pair these shirts with some black jeans or pants and cool sneakers.
Orlebar Brown
11/13Price: From $262
Sizes: XS-XXL
Customer Reviews: “Beautiful and comfortable.”
Orlebar Brown is a London-based brand, launched in 2007. This brand initially strived to create better men’s beach shorts, as they wanted to manufacture swimwear that could be casually too. If you’re looking for the most stylish Hawaii shirts, check out their online store, as their collection is inspired by 1960s poolside utopia and Palm Beach style.
Orlebar Brown’s collection offers the most original and distinct designs, from art deco prints to floral patterns, you’ll look super fashionable on your island vacation. These shirts are a relaxed fit, geared to make you feel super at ease while taking a break from your 9 to 5.
Cubavera
12/13Price: From $92
Sizes: S-XXL
Customer Reviews: “Super light weight, great colors. Love this shirt!”
George and Oscar Feldenkreis founded Cubavera in 2000, with the dream to showcase their Latin culture into their lifestyle brand. Cubavera combines the traditional guayabera garment with innovative materials to upgrade this staple piece with a modern twist.
Cubavera developed a line of signature Hawaiian shirts highlighting the brand’s rich Latin heritage. These shirts showcase the finest craftsmanship, as each piece is treated with an exceptional level of care. Featuring guayaberas made from linen and cotton, these shirts are supremely comfortable so that you can let loose on your getaway.
ASOS Design
13/13Price: From $52
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Customer Reviews: “Pattern is great. The fit of the shirt was too boogy.”
ASOS is everyone’s favourite online shop as their offer a various styles, prints, size and colours. Starting in 2000, the company sells over 850 brands, including its own range of clothing and accessories.
Make sure you check out their online store as ASOS has an extensive collection of Hawaiian shirts for the lowest prices, making this range accessible to every man. If you’re looking for an aloha shirt that highlights a classic, cool print with a camp collar, ASOS has you covered. However, if you’re after a design that’s super functional and convenient, they have the finest Hawaiian shirts that are highly lightweight and breathable.
