How To Wear a Hawaiian Shirt for Men
The Hawaiian shirt, or “Aloha shirt,” is iconic. Originating in the early 20th century, Hawaiian shirts were crafted by Chinese and Japanese immigrants using imported Asian fabrics with intricate patterns. Hawaiian shirts today tend to feature bold florals, scenic landscapes, and cultural motifs. Because of their variety, they've become popular for all occasions.
Choosing the Right Hawaiian Shirt
Colors and Prints
Vibrant Colors
Bright Hawaiian shirts come in a huge range of colours, ranging from bold yellows and oranges to deep greens and reds. The colours often draw inspiration from Hawaii’s tropical landscapes. The vibrant coloured prints will bring a pop of colour to any occasion.
Muted Colors
Muted Hawaiian shirts feature softer tones like pastels and subtle earthy shades. These subdued colours are easy and versatile to work into different outfits.
Traditional Prints
Traditional prints are essential to Hawaiian shirt style. They feature bold and intricate floral patterns, ocean elements, and other traditional Polynesian designs. Traditional prints reflect the connection between nature, heritage, and the Hawiian lifestyle.
Modern Prints
Modern prints offer a fresh take on the classic design. From unconventional patterns to abstract shapes, these prints can feature vibrant colours, cheeky graphics, and unexpected combinations.
Fabric and Breathability
Hawaiian shirts are made with various fabrics, each with unique benefits. These include:
- Rayon/Viscose – The traditional choice for Hawaiian shirts with a comfortable and lightweight feel and soft and smooth texture. Rayon and Viscose are both moisture-absorbent and breathable.
- Silk – Strong and durable, yet soft to the touch. Silk is thermoregulating and ideal for varying temperatures.
- Bamboo – Also a rayon/viscose weave, bamboo offers breathability, softness, odour resistance, and UV protection.
- Linen – Very breathable, great for hot and humid weather. Linen is known for its durability, strength, and moisture-wicking properties.
- Cotton – Comfortable and hypoallergenic, cotton is low-maintenance and easy to care for, but doesn’t offer the same moisture-wicking properties as viscose.
- Polyester – Polyester resists wrinkling and maintains its shape over time. It also retains colour and wicks moisture away from the body, but may not be the most breathable option.
- Nylon – Resistant to wear and tear, nylon is a durable fabric that provides stretch and flexibility, but may not be as comfortable and breathable as natural fabrics.
Fit
All Hawaiian shirt fits are relatively similar, offering a looser and more comfortable fit. A fitted Hawaiian shirt is not really a thing. The roomier cuts allow air to circulate, keeping you cooler and giving you the classic island-style.
- Loose – Loose-fit Hawaiian shirts offer the most room in the body and sleeves, providing airflow and ease of movement. They are versatile for different body types.
- Comfort – This cut is specific to Hawaiian shirts, offering the traditional roomy fit for easy going comfort, and unrestricted motion and breathability.
- Relaxed – Relaxed fit Hawaiian shirts are still roomy but slightly more tailored than a loose fit. They offer casual style and a timeless appeal.
How To Style Hawaiian Shirts
What about a tucked in Hawaiian shirt? Do you tuck in Hawaiian shirts? That's a question of how, and the answer is… never. But if you ever wondered what to wear with a Hawaiian shirt, you’ve come to the right place.
Bottoms
Trousers for Hawaiian Shirts
Styling a Hawaiian shirt with jeans or other trousers comes down to balance. Hawaiian shirts are often bold and vibrant, so the short answer to what trousers go with hawaiian shirts is… neutral coloured ones. Depending on the colour scheme of your shirt, ideal trousers for Hawaiian shirts should be light and comfortable, so choose casual chinos or cotton twill pants in beige, khaki, or navy to let your Hawaiian shirt pop.
Hawaiian Shirt With Shorts
If the weather is warm or you’re heading to the beach, it’s time to consider which shorts to wear with a Hawaiian shirt. Choose either chino shorts or tailored shorts in a neutral or coordinating colour. Hybrid shorts are a versatile option that you can wear in and out of the water. What shorts go with a Hawaiian shirt? You can try different colours and styles to see what works best, but the general rule is don’t let the shorts clash with the shirt.
Cabana Set
To go all-out with the vacation vibe, pair your Hawaiian shirt with matching shorts to create a cabana set. Just add a straw hat, sunnies, and your drink of choice.
What To Wear Under a Hawaiian Shirt
Most people don’t wear anything under a Hawaiian shirt, but if you want to absorb sweat on hotter days, stay warm on cooler days, or wear your Hawaiian shirt open, t-shirts and tanks are the way to go.
T-Shirts
Lightweight and breathable t-shirts help maximise airflow and keep cool in hot temps. Your Hawaiian shirt should still drape over the t-shirt, so make sure the undershirt isn’t bulky. You can go with a v-neck or crew neck t-shirt, depending on your preference and the look of the Hawaiian shirt.
Tanks
Tanks are a great choice for wearing under Hawaiian shirts, as they help keep you cooler in warm weather. Choose breathable fabrics and muted colours to let your Hawaiian shirt stand out, or experiment with colours for a little extra flare.
What To Wear Over a Hawaiian Shirt
Canvas Jacket
Canvas jackets are good for layering when the temperatures drop. Contrast the Hawaiian shirt with a different-coloured canvas jacket for a bold look, or choose a neutral one to show off your shirt.
Sport Coat or Blazer
Combining a colourful Hawaiian shirt with sport coat or even a Hawaiian shirt with blazer is a great way to add a splash of life to a more formal look - just don’t add a necktie.
Workwear Jacket
Workwear jackets are both a stylish and practical complement to Hawaiian shirts. The utilitarian look works well with a bold print or pop of color and the spacious fit allows for easy layering.
Footwear: what shoes to wear with a Hawaiian shirt?
Sandals
Sandals transition easily to the beach and work with any laid-back look. Whether you go with flip flops, slide sandals, or leather sandals, you can make them work for a variety of occasions without compromising on comfort.
Hybrid Shoes
Choose loafers, boat shoes, or casual lace-up shoes made from breathable materials. Hybrid shoes have added features, like mesh uppers and drainage sole ports, that help keep your feet dry in warm or wet weather.
Slip-Ons
Slip-ons are comfortable and easy to get on and off. White, beige, and darker colours work well with Hawaiian shirts and are a good option for a relaxed look.
How To Accessorize Hawaiian Shirts
Sunglasses
Sunglasses go hand in hand with Hawaiian shirts since they’re worn on sunny days. Not only do they provide UV protection, they showcase your individual sense of style. Choose neutral-coloured sunglasses as a versatile option for any shirt, or opt for more unique styles, like shield or round sunglasses, to complete your vacation vibe.
Hats
Hats are another opportunity to add style to your look. Straw hats and bucket hats offer plenty of sun protection and work well with the tropical feel of Hawaiian shirts. Try baseball caps or dad hats for an easier travel option, or fedoras for an elevated look.
When deciding on your next Hawaiian shirt, experiment with prints, colors, fabrics, and fits to match your personal style. Whatever the occasion, Hawaiian shirts add a fun, laid-back element to any look.
