If fashion was a clique, Hawaiian shirts would be the class clown.
Outrageous, loud and colourful, the tropical prints have adopted a costume-like charm that appeals to bold dressers.
What is it about these shirts that have such a grip over men? Is it that the lightweight quality makes the perfect holiday shirt? Is it the tongue-in-cheek raucousness of the designs? Or could it be the fact that Brad Pitt is their poster boy?
The aforementioned are all valid reasons why one should covet the hibiscus print numbers, yet we believe the escapist nature of Hawaiian shirts is their ultimate selling point.
They promote a postcard aesthetic for consumers to buy into both financially and emotionally. The summer tones and floral motifs are transportive to sun-brushed beaches peppered with palm trees and coconut water, which also bestows upon them an unexpected sense of slick luxury.
Consider the famous figures who have sported these nostalgic garments. Stars of Hollywood’s golden age such as Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley were fans. Elusive on-screen characters such as Brad Pitt’s Cliff Booth in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Tyler Durden in Fight Club adorned a Hawaiian shirt. As did Tim Roth’s Pumpkin in Pulp Fiction, Tom Selleck’s Thomas Magnum in Magnum, P.I. and Jim Carrey in Ace Ventura. The affair between film and fantastical shirts never ceases.
Hawaiian shirts are as glamorous as they are novelty. While some associate them with the far-flung tropics of the Pacific, others can’t look past their somewhat dorky connotations.
Yet considering the glittering fan base coupled with their impact on popular culture, we say it’s time to bring back Hawaiian shirts in all their glory. The bolder, the better.
Discover the best Hawaiian shirts - or aloha shirts as they are known - to add to your summer get-up.
Shop now
Martine Rose Boxy Hawaiian Shirt
Drawing upon her Jamaican-British roots, Martine Rose captures the essence of sun-soaked style. This retro tangerine piece features budding blue-green florals, complete with a relaxed camp collar and a woven brand patch adorning the pocket.
Buy now £315.00, END.
Dries Van Noten Camp-Collar Floral-Print Georgette Shirt
Lose yourself in the allure of Dries Van Noten’s floral design. The brand’s Hawaiian shirt is a more muted option, featuring a watercolour-inspired graphic and a featherlight feel.
Buy now £222.00, Mr Porter
Nudie Jeans Arvid Convertible-Collar Floral-Print Cotton-Poplin Shirt
Bold, bright and sure to spark delight, Nudie Jeans’ Hawaiian number is one for the brave. A soft cotton-poplin structure is enhanced by charming hibiscus florals in zesty citrus shades.
Buy now £105.00, Mr Porter
Orlebar Brown + La DoubleJ Camp-Collar Floral-Print Lyocell Shirt
Showcasing luscious blooms, cascading vines and a smart trim, this Orlebar Brown shirt has it all. Created in collaboration with Doube J, this luxurious number is carefully crafted from smooth, naturally cooling Lyocell and oozes South of France chic.
Buy now £345.00, Mr Porter
Aloha Republic Hawaiian Sunset shirt
Loud and proud shirts are a joy when done well - as shown here. This print reminds us of those sublime tropical sunsets from holidays past.
This is a light cotton poplin fabric that’s made for scorching hot days (and nights), and for even more beach cred, the buttons are coconut shells, a detail on which some purists insist.
Buy now £44.99, Hawaiian Shirt Shop
Superdry Hawaiian Shirt
Turn out a true Brad Pitt moment with a mustard yellow tropical shirt straight out of the movies. Superdry’s affordable option is perfect for al fresco fiestas and relaxed garden party gallivanting.
Buy now £44.99, Superdry
Marine Serre Jersey Jacquard Towels Bowling Shirt
Comprising a soft terry cloth design and animated florals, Marine Serre’s Hawaiian shirt is so nostalgic you can almost smell the sun cream. A luxury piece for those with the cash to splash, the playful shirt is a show-stopper for beachside strolls.
Buy now £569.00, END.
M&S Easy Iron Linen Rich Floral Shirt
Steer away from vibrant colours while retaining an element of beach chic. M&S’ easy-iron piece is perfect for packing and boasts moisture-wicking technology, a classic Cuban collar and button-through fastening.
Buy now £32.00, M&S
AllSaints Nevada Floral Print Relaxed Fit Shirt
It’s no secret that AllSaints is home to a colourful array of printed shirts. Luckily, that includes tropical pieces. The Nevada Floral Print Relaxed Fit Shirt is a subtle take on the Hawaiian print, featuring a softly muted design and stone colourway.
Buy now £119.00, AllSaints
Rokit Vintage 70s Style Hawaiian Shirt
Our number one hack for Hawaiian shirt shopping? Go vintage. Rokit is home to an array of colourful pieces in all shapes and sizes. Our eye fell on this vibrant orange gem to help get the party started.
Buy now £55.00, Rokit
