What Is a Hawaiian Shirt? Everything You Need to Know

What is a Hawaiian shirt? Hawaiian shirts, or Aloha shirts, are made of lightweight fabric with short sleeves, a button-front closure, and an open neck. You may know that they feature colorful floral patterns, palm trees, and ocean scenes, but did you know that there is a rich history behind them? Let’s take a tour around this unique kind of shirt.

The History of the Hawaiian Shirt

Hawaiian shirts have a fascinating history and story behind their creation and evolution; let’s take a look!

Origin of Aloha Shirts

The true origins of the Aloha shirt seem to be lost, and no one knows for sure how it began. However, most agree that it began in Hawaii in the 1920s and 1930s.

There are those who believe that the first versions of these shirts may have been created by Japanese women living in Hawaii. At that time, the brightly colored shirts and dresses were called “ono” by the islanders – meaning “super cool”.

However, others say that in the mid-1930s, an artist named Elsie Das was hired by a Hawaiian clothing manufacturer to create 15 floral designs. And it was these motifs that paved the way for the various versions that followed.

And from there, these shirts began gaining traction with tourists. Shops in Honolulu began selling what we now know as the Aloha shirt, catering to visitors who wanted a piece of paradise to take home.

Evolution Over The Decades

Hawaiian shirts became wildly popular during and after World War II. Soldiers stationed in Hawaii often bought these shirts as souvenirs to take home. The bold colors and unique designs made them popular, and soon, they became a symbol of leisurely island living.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Hollywood helped bring the Aloha shirt to the global spotlight. Stars like Elvis Presley famously wore them in films like Blue Hawaii. Or in the movie “From Here to Eternity,” actors like Montgomery Clift, Burt Lancaster, Frank Sinatra, and Ernest Borgnine all wore eye-catching Hawaiian shirts.

Not only that, in the 1980s, Tom Selleck appeared in a Hawaiian shirt featured in the then-hit “Magnum P.I.”, which is now on display at the Smithsonian American History Museum. And many other celebrities also loved this type of shirt. Therefore, during this time, many manufacturers began producing Hawaiian shirts for inland and beyond, thereby promoting their popularity.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Hawaiian shirts became part of workplace culture, thanks to the advent of “Aloha Fridays” in Hawaii. This custom encouraged employees to wear Aloha shirts to work. as a more relaxed alternative to formal business attire. This trend spread to the mainland United States and eventually evolved into the “Casual Friday” dress code that many workplaces employ today.

In the 1990s, Hawaiian shirts appeared everywhere, from everyday summer wardrobes to television shows and music videos, cementing their place as a fun fashion icon. What began as a local expression of Hawaiian culture has grown into a global phenomenon!

What Materials Are Used to Make Hawaiian Shirts?

If you wonder what Hawaiian shirts are made of, they were originally made from silk and cotton, reflecting the cultural inspirations of the 1930s and 1940s. These fabrics were the brainchild of Ellery Chun, the Chinese merchant credited with inventing the first Hawaiian shirt.

During this period, Japanese textiles also gained considerable prominence, making silk quite popular for these brightly coloured clothing items. The fabric was light, breathable, comfortable and had eye-catching patterns – who wouldn’t love that?

Today, the use of each fabric is more flexible, and there are many more types used to make Hawaiian shirts. For example, silk, cotton, rayon, polyester (or blends), and even linen are used to keep the shirt breathable and comfortable.

Who Can Wear Hawaiian Shirts?

The Hawaiian shirt is the most inclusive, yet versatile, piece of attire out there-anybody can wear an Aloha shirt! Whether you like a real wild print or a more subdued, classic pattern, or something in between, there’s a design and size for every taste.

Although Hawaiian shirts are normally portrayed in media and pop culture as retro statements, for islanders, they are actually everyday wear. In Hawaii, it’s normal to see business people, students, surfers, and anyone else, both residents and visitors alike, out and about participating in local activities.

In the same vein, even celebrity fans of the Hawaiian shirt have also embraced its allure: Tom Selleck, Jared Leto, Bruno Mars, and even Tom Hardy can be seen wearing these striking shirts. Aloha, for his shirt certainly suits all.

But what do Hawaiian people wear? Do they dress like visitors? For locals, Aloha shirts are often worn every day and even at work, more frequently than just “Casual Friday.” They often feature traditional Hawaiian motifs rather than flashy-touristy ones. While tourists wear them as souvenirs, Hawaiians see Aloha shirts as a symbol of pride and the “Aloha spirit.”

How to Style a Hawaiian Shirt? 3 Tips For You 

Not only for going out or everyday wear, Hawaiian shirts can also be worn to formal parties. Isn’t it interesting?

1. Casual

The most popular style is to pair a Hawaiian shirt with shorts, chinos, or denim. Choose neutral pants like beige or blue to highlight the vibrant pattern of the shirt. And remember: Don’t tuck it in!

Choose sandals, wedges, or casual sneakers to complete the outfit. Sandals are a great choice for a beachy look, while sneakers add a sporty touch. Remember, less is more!

2. Semi-formal

For a more formal look, pair it with tailored trousers in solid, neutral colors like black, navy, or gray. Choose a shirt in a darker tone or a subtle pattern for a polished look. You can also tuck the shirt in for a more polished look.

For a more edgy look, add a blazer over it. Choose a lightweight fabric to match the relaxed feel of the shirt. This combination is ideal for outdoor events, casual weddings or a stylish dinner where you want to stand out.

3. Dos and Don’ts

There are two things to keep in mind:

• Don’t accessorize too much – a watch, sunglasses or a plain hat will be enough to enhance your look without overpowering it.
• Your entire outfit should be just a Hawaiian shirt, no more pants or anything with flashy patterns.

Feel the Hawaiian Spirit with Tapa Aloha Shirt’s 2025 Hawaiian Shirt Collection!

Tapa Aloha Shirt is proud to be at the forefront of combining Hawaiian shirt branding with sports style. Are you an MLB, NCAA or NFL fan? Find these and more in the following collections: 2025 Hawaiian Shirts Collections by Tapa Aloha Shirt.

FAQ

1. Are Hawaiian shirts still fashionable today?

Yes, Hawaiian shirts remain a popular fashion choice. They have seen a resurgence in recent years, blending vintage charm with modern trends, making them versatile for casual and semi-formal occasions.

2. Can You Wear Hawaiian Shirts For Formal Occasions?

The answer is: Yes. Even though Hawaiian shirts were designed as casual clothing and are usually worn as such, they can be appropriate for more casual formal events. Hawaiian shirts match with shift dresses or tailored trousers and a blazer, dressing the lookup.

3. Why Are Hawaiian Shirts Short?

To create comfort and ventilation in warm, tropical climates. The short length of the Hawaiian shirt makes it easy to move and keeps the wearer cool and comfortable to wear at home or going out.

 

Hawaiian shirts can be many things—they can be souvenirs for tourists, everyday clothing, or even a bold fashion statement. For locals, they are a symbol of culture and identity, a tradition that has been preserved and passed down for many years. After reading this article, we hope you understand more about the famous Hawaiian shirt and buy yourself one!