How to Shop Authentic Hawaiian Clothing Online

13 Jan.,2025

 

How to Shop Authentic Hawaiian Clothing Online

How to Shop Authentic Hawaiian Shirts and Clothing Online with Aloha Shirts Club

Hawaiian shirts have always been more than just a piece of clothing; they're a symbol of the laid-back island lifestyle, full of vibrant colors and unique designs. Shopping for these iconic pieces online can be a rewarding experience, especially when you know what to look for and where to shop. Aloha Shirts Club is one of the best places to find authentic Hawaiian shirts and clothing, ensuring you get quality items that embody the spirit of Hawaii. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to shop for authentic Hawaiian shirts and clothing online with Aloha Shirts Club.

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Why Choose Aloha Shirts Club?

A Commitment to Authenticity

Aloha Shirts Club prides itself on offering only the most authentic Hawaiian shirts and clothing. Each piece is carefully selected to ensure it represents true Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship. When you shop with Aloha Shirts Club, you can be confident that you're getting genuine articles made with the finest materials.

Exclusive Designs and Collections

One of the standout features of Aloha Shirts Club is its exclusive collections from different brands. These collections often include limited-edition designs, which means you can wear a piece of Hawaiian heritage that is truly unique.

Supporting Local Artisans

When you purchase from Aloha Shirts Club, you're not just buying a shirt; you're supporting local Hawaiian artisans. Many of their pieces are handmade by local designers, ensuring that traditional methods and patterns are preserved and passed down through generations.

Understanding Authentic Hawaiian Shirts

The History and Cultural Significance

Hawaiian shirts, also known as Aloha shirts, originated in the early 20th century. They were created by local Hawaiian tailors using Japanese fabrics and traditional Hawaiian patterns. These shirts quickly became popular due to their comfort and colorful designs, symbolizing the relaxed and joyful Hawaiian lifestyle.

Key Features of Authentic Hawaiian Shirts

Authentic Hawaiian shirts have distinct features that set them apart from mass-produced imitations. These include:

  • Fabric: Genuine Hawaiian shirts are often made from high-quality cotton or silk, providing both comfort and durability.
  • Designs: Traditional Hawaiian patterns include floral motifs, ocean scenes, and native wildlife. These designs are usually printed using techniques that ensure vibrant, lasting colors.
  • Buttons: Authentic shirts often feature coconut, shell, or wooden buttons, adding to their unique charm.
  • Made in Hawaii: True Hawaiian shirts are typically made in Hawaii, supporting local craftsmanship and ensuring authenticity.

How to Spot a Fake

With the popularity of Hawaiian shirts, there are many imitations on the market. Here are some tips to help you spot a fake:

  • Check the Label: Look for labels that indicate the shirt was made in Hawaii. Many imitations are produced in other countries.
  • Inspect the Fabric: Genuine Hawaiian shirts are made from high-quality fabrics like cotton or silk. If the fabric feels cheap or synthetic, it&#;s likely an imitation.
  • Examine the Stitching: Authentic shirts have high-quality stitching. Loose threads or uneven seams are a sign of a counterfeit.
  • Look at the Price: While not always a definitive indicator, extremely low prices can be a red flag for inauthentic products.

Shopping Tips for Aloha Shirts Club

Browsing the Website

Aloha Shirts Club&#;s website is user-friendly and easy to navigate. Here are some tips to help you find what you&#;re looking for:

  • Use Filters: Utilize the filters to narrow down your search by size, color, or pattern.
  • Read Product Descriptions: Each item has a detailed description, including information about the fabric, design, and origin. Make sure to read these to understand what you&#;re buying.
  • Check Reviews: Customer reviews can provide insights into the fit and quality of the shirt.

Sizing Guide

One of the most important aspects of buying clothing online is ensuring you get the right size. Aloha Shirts Club provides a comprehensive sizing guide to help you choose the perfect fit. Here are some tips:

  • Measure Yourself: Use a tape measure to take your measurements. Compare these to the sizing chart provided on the website.
  • Consider the Fit: Hawaiian shirts are typically designed to be a bit loose and comfortable. If you prefer a more fitted look, you might consider sizing down.
  • Check the Returns Policy: In case the shirt doesn&#;t fit as expected, it&#;s good to know the returns policy. Aloha Shirts Club has a customer-friendly returns process, making exchanges easy.

Exploring Exclusive Collections

Aloha Shirts Club often releases exclusive collections that feature limited-edition designs. These collections are a great way to add unique pieces to your wardrobe. Here are some benefits of shopping these collections:

  • Unique Designs: Exclusive collections often feature unique patterns and designs that you won&#;t find anywhere else.
  • Limited Availability: These items are produced in limited quantities, making them highly sought after.
  • Collector&#;s Items: Due to their limited nature, these shirts can become collector&#;s items over time.

Caring for Your Hawaiian Shirts

Washing and Drying

To keep your Hawaiian shirts looking vibrant and fresh, it&#;s important to care for them properly. Here are some tips:

  • Follow Care Instructions: Always follow the care instructions on the label. This will ensure your shirt stays in good condition.
  • Hand Wash or Gentle Cycle: If possible, hand wash your shirts or use a gentle cycle on your washing machine. This helps prevent the fabric from wearing out.
  • Avoid Harsh Detergents: Use mild detergents to preserve the colors and fabric quality.
  • Air Dry: Air drying is the best way to prevent shrinkage and keep your shirts looking their best. If you must use a dryer, opt for a low-heat setting.

Storing Your Shirts

Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your Hawaiian shirts. Here are some storage tips:

  • Hang Them Up: Hanging your shirts helps prevent wrinkles and keeps them in good shape.
  • Use Padded Hangers: Padded hangers are gentler on the fabric and help maintain the shape of the shirt.
  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store your shirts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

The Benefits of Owning Authentic Hawaiian Clothing

Versatility in Fashion

Authentic Hawaiian shirts are incredibly versatile. They can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for various occasions. Here are some ideas:

  • Casual Wear: Pair your Hawaiian shirt with shorts or jeans for a relaxed, casual look.
  • Business Casual: Wear a Hawaiian shirt with khakis or slacks for a stylish business casual outfit.
  • Beachwear: Hawaiian shirts are perfect for the beach. Wear them over swimwear for a comfortable and stylish look.

A Piece of Hawaiian Culture

When you wear an authentic Hawaiian shirt, you&#;re wearing a piece of Hawaiian culture. These shirts are more than just clothing; they&#;re a celebration of the island&#;s history and traditions.

Supporting Sustainable Fashion

By purchasing from Aloha Shirts Club, you&#;re supporting sustainable fashion. Many of their products are made using eco-friendly practices and materials. This not only helps the environment but also ensures that traditional Hawaiian craftsmanship is preserved.

Conclusion

Shopping for authentic Hawaiian shirts and clothing online with Aloha Shirts Club is a delightful experience. Their commitment to authenticity, support for local artisans, and exclusive collections make them a top choice for anyone looking to add genuine Hawaiian flair to their wardrobe. By following the tips in this guide, you can confidently shop for high-quality Hawaiian shirts and clothing that you&#;ll treasure for years to come. Whether you&#;re new to Hawaiian shirts or a longtime fan, Aloha Shirts Club has something special for everyone. So why wait? Dive into the vibrant world of Hawaiian fashion and bring a piece of the islands home with you today!

The 13 Best Hawaiian Shirts for Men

Nothing says breezy, carefree comfort like a Hawaiian shirt, also known as an aloha shirt. The best ones are designed and manufactured by Hawaiians in Hawaii, where I travel frequently for work and leisure, and where warm, casual hospitality is as intoxicating as its gentle ocean breezes. A Hawaiian shirt can be worn anywhere, for any occasion. 

&#;They pack small and deliver a big impact,&#; says David "Pua" Rochlen, who heads up the 60-year-old Hawaiian apparel brand Jams World (and is the son of its founder). Pack a Hawaiian shirt for its breathability, comfort, tropical style, and versatility. They work just as well paired with linen pants for a destination wedding (whether as a guest or the groom!) as they do tossed over swim trunks for a day at the beach.

Shop for an authentic Hawaiian shirt with a print that jives with your aesthetic preferences. But understand that these prints also contribute to an aloha shirt&#;s authenticity. &#;The prints tell a story, as they represent symbols within the Hawaiian culture,&#; explains Aunty Wendy Tuivaioge, director of Hawaiian programs at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.

Most authentic aloha shirts range in price from around $45 up into the hundreds for collector favorites and top-end craftsmanship. Read on to find the best Hawaiian shirts for men to pack right now.

Why We Love It
  • You can&#;t lose when you invest in an aloha shirt from this iconic and recognizable Hawaiian brand, and this one is both visually striking and machine washable.

What to Consider
  • Sig Zane&#;s online inventory of Hawaiian shirts for men is overall limited, so grab it quickly if you see something you like. 

There is perhaps no bigger name in aloha shirts than Sig Zane. The native Hawaiian launched the eponymous line in with his wife, Nalani Kanakaʻole, with the goal to share their culture through the designs.

This pullover Hawaiian shirt features the brand&#;s ʻĀinakō print in shades of green, evoking fields of sugar cane &#; a key cash crop for the islands that influenced the landscape, practices, and ranks of the government. 

The cut is inspired by Ivy League shirts from early in the last century, with coconut buttons and a slightly wider half placket to make it easy to pull over the head; tuck it in or leave it out for a more casual look.

The Details: XS to 3XL | Nylon, elastane

Why We Love It
  • This is the budget-friendliest shirt on our list with a price point worthy of an impulse buy.

What to Consider
  • While this mass-produced shirt is easy on the wallet, it doesn&#;t support native or local Hawaiian craftspeople. 

This attractive Hawaiian-print shirt runs about the same price as an airport maitai, and it comes in 12 different patterns so it makes a great impulse buy in multiples ahead of a trip. (Plus, it ships fast and free with Amazon Prime, so you can get it tomorrow if you&#;re packing at the last minute.) The fit is easy through the chest and tapered through the waist, so the appearance is sleek and tailored. Soft and durable tumbled poplin construction feels comfy and lived-in right out of the package 

The Details: XS to XXL | Cotton

Why We Love It
  • This knockout contrast vintage print is impeccably constructed in silk, and is a worthy investment piece.

What to Consider
  • This shirt should be dry cleaned only.

This stunning contrast vintage print dates back to Tori Richard&#;s collection (the brand has a 60-year history in Hawaii). The print seamlessly matches on the pocket and front placket, with fine French seams reflecting top-quality craftsmanship in this splurge-worthy investment piece. It features mother of pearl buttons, and is made with 100 percent mulberry silk twill fabric that feels cool and smooth against the body.

The Details: XS to 3XL | Mulberry silk twill

Why We Love It
  • This polo-style aloha shirt is made from a polyester blend designed for hot climates.

What to Consider
  • There&#;s limited inventory for the largest sizes in both available colorways (navy and linen).

Founded in Honolulu in , Kahala is the oldest operating apparel company in the state and the first to manufacture Hawaiian shirts. This polo is made of Kahala&#;s &#;Brr&#; polyester, engineered specifically for wear in hot weather, with cooling, wicking, and fast-drying properties. The sea voyage print showcases a view of Hawaiian outrigger canoes from above set against the waves. (Canoeing is the state's official team sport, a tradition dating back millennia.) 

The Details: XS to 3XL | Polyester and spandex

Why We Love It
  • Made with 100 percent organic linen, this shirt is lightweight and breathable.

What to Consider
  • Linen is prone to wrinkling. 

This 100 percent organic linen shirt comes from Kealopiko, designed in Hawaii. Ane Bakutis, Jamie Makasobe, and Hina Kneubuhl, all of Hawaiian ancestry, launched the brand together in (and later moved to include some production in California as a way to scale and reduce footprint). The shirt has real coconut buttons with a design that nods to &#;He Aloha No Lono,&#; the life-giving rains that bathe the earth each fall and welcome the agricultural season.

The Details: XS to 3XL | Organic linen

Why We Love It
  • Made of rayon poplin, this shirt resists wrinkles and packs easily.

What to Consider
  • Rayon poplin does show stains, but machine washing typically removes them easily.

    Want more information on Personalized Hawaiian Shirts? Feel free to contact us.

Done in a silky rayon poplin material, this shirt resists wrinkles, so it&#;s ideal for packing. Its print features bamboo stems and Cattleya orchid blooms against a red backdrop that really pops. The look is classic aloha; we love it for a tropical destination wedding or honeymoon. It has a relaxed collar and coconut buttons, and it&#;s made in Hawaii. 

The Details: S to 2XL | Rayon poplin

Why We Love It
  • This iconic print dates back more than 85 years; it&#;s a favorite among collectors and aficionados. 

What to Consider
  • There is a limited stock in certain colors and sizes, but the black is widely available in all sizes. 

The century-old Kamehameha Garment Company first produced this bird of paradise print back in . Redone in the mid-s, it became one of the brand&#;s bestsellers throughout that decade. It's just plain iconic, and now, it&#;s available in new colorways, including backgrounds in yellow, blue, black, or red. Bonus: shipping is free all around the world.

The Details: S to 3X | Rayon fujiette

Why We Love It
  • This versatile shirt has a muted color palette and pattern that goes with everything.

What to Consider
  • Wash with extra care given to the real coconut buttons, which could crack.

This subtle light blue on white palm design is meant to underscore the range of resources found from &#;ma uka to ma kai&#; &#; mountain to ocean &#; in Hawaii&#;s diverse ecosystem. This design nods at both the native Hāpu&#;u tree fern found in the mountains and the Oahu island flower &#;ilima, which grows on the coasts. This 100 percent cotton poplin shirt is soft and naturally breathable. Plus, it features real coconut buttons. It&#;s designed, cut, and sewn in Hawaii. And it comes in a size-inclusive range up to 4X, but if yours doesn&#;t fit, you can swap sizes for free.

The Details: S to 4XL | Cotton poplin

Why We Love It
  • This accessibly priced shirt has moisture-wicking and stretchy properties and comes in sizes up to 7XL.

What to Consider
  • For lasting shape and color, wash this shirt in cold water and hang to dry.

This button-down shirt is ideal for sticky, humid conditions with moisture-wicking fabric and four-way stretch for comfort and flexibility. It comes in a size-inclusive range up to 7XL. (Other styles in this understated brown print are also available for women, girls, and boys, so the family can coordinate.) This brand comes from the husband-wife team Cindy Forsgren (who is Hawaiian) and Aaron Forsgren (who has Samoan and Swedish origins). 

The Details: S to 7XL | Polyester, spandex

Why We Love It
  • This naturally breathable shirt has a cool, contemporary cloud design and also comes in kid sizes for matching with your mini.

What to Consider
  • It&#;s one of the pricier options available.

Inspired by Japanese art from Kahala&#;s archival aloha shirts, this print is meant to capture the islands&#; fast-moving clouds and frequent rain showers. It&#;s made with 100 percent cotton broadcloth, so it&#;s naturally lightweight, breathable, and great for hot and sticky days. This shirt is machine washable and made in Hawaii. Available with either a black or blue background, this men&#;s shirt also comes in kid sizes, so it&#;s great for family matching. (Holiday card pictures on the beach, anyone?)

The Details: XS to 3XL | Cotton broadcloth

Why We Love It
  • While aloha shirts commonly range in size up to 3XL, this one ranges up to 8XL.

What to Consider
  • It only runs down to size small.

This design of this elegant shirt is meant as a metaphor for the brand&#;s journey over 50 years: the niʻihau shell print is meant to represent the way these small shells are found among the sands one by one, and strung together by cultural masters into works of art. The shirt is printed in metallic gold ink on navy seersucker &#; a nod to the Hawaiian brand&#;s golden anniversary &#; and buttons just down to the chest for a dressed-up pullover style.

The Details: S to 8XL | Seersucker

Why We Love It
  • This 100 percent silk shirt is ultra-smooth with an elegant asymmetrical pattern.

What to Consider
  • You can machine wash this shirt, but air drying is best.

Made from 100 percent silk, this camp shirt has a distinct elegance to it, with a subtler pattern appropriate for beachy date nights and milestone events. The primarily ivory shirt has an asymmetrical tropical print rather than an all-over style for unique visual appeal. 

The Details: XS to 3XL | Silk

Why We Love It
  • This loose-fitting rayon shirt is stylish and easy to wear.

What to Consider
  • Screen printed with hand-painted buttons, this shirt comes with a higher price point than some others on our list.

This shirt made from soft and pliable rayon has a loose fit for comfy wear that won&#;t cling. It has hand-painted buttons to match the design and a matched pocket with a straight-bottom hem. Each print is based on an original piece of art, replicated in screen printing for bright color, texture, and depth to mimic the original as faithfully as possible. This style is a classic for the brand, which dates back to the &#;60s in Hawaii. 

The Details: XS to 2XL | Rayon

Tips for Buying Hawaiian Shirts for Men

Prioritize authentic brands and designs

&#;A true Hawaiian shirt, or aloha shirt, starts with art that tells a story relevant to Hawaii in some way,&#; Rochlen explains. &#;The story could be flowers, fish, ocean, scenery, or an abstract motif that evokes the feeling of the islands.&#;

Beyond just an authentic Hawaii print, seek out styles from Hawaii-based businesses whenever possible. &#;It&#;s even better if the story is told by the people and manufacturers who are actually living the Hawaii lifestyle here,&#; he says.

Choose the right materials

Opt for breathable, sweat-wicking, wrinkle-free, and odor-resistant fabrics whenever possible. Specifically, &#;the best fabrics are rayon and cotton,&#; Rochlen recommends. &#;Both are cool, breathable, and lightweight &#; perfect for warm and humid weather but can also be layered in cold weather.&#;

Tuivaioge notes another travel-friendly quality to look out for in a Hawaiian shirt: &#;New styles of aloha shirts are being made with dry-fit material, which is delightfully wrinkle free,&#; she says.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where can I wear a Hawaiian shirt?

    Hawaiian shirts are for everyday wear. &#;In Hawaii we wear them to work, to play, and for special occasions,&#; Rochlen says. &#;Match the colors or theme of your shirt to what you are doing [and] you are going to make a statement.&#;

    Tuivaioge puts it plainly: &#;You can wear them anytime and anywhere.&#; And that includes destinations outside of Hawaii. She notes that her husband frequently packs his for travel outside the islands &#; &#;especially to Las Vegas!&#;

  • How should a Hawaiian shirt fit?

    The best fit for a Hawaiian shirt is however the wearer feels most comfortable in it. &#;Comfort should come first,&#; Tuivaioge says. Rochlen underscores the point: &#;Hawaiian shirts should fit to your personal comfort because you're supposed to feel relaxed, carefree, and happy when you're wearing it,&#; he says.

    It&#;s all a matter of personal preference: &#;Some people like the original boxy style shirt and others may prefer the modern slim fit style,&#; he continues. Aloha shirts also come in a polo-style silhouette, if that&#;s more your preference.

  • What should you wear with a Hawaiian shirt?

    Hawaiian shirts work great when worn with pants or shorts of any material &#; including linen denim, cotton, and even swimwear. &#;Wear it with shorts, jeans, suits, or skirts,&#; Rachlen says. &#;Let the collar peek out the neck of your sweater or jacket.&#;

    Tuivaioge recommends accessorizing with adornments such as a lei, native jewelry, and a hat.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Alesandra Dubin is a travel and lifestyle journalist and professional product reviewer who has visited Hawaii for work and leisure many times over the last 15 years and has established close contacts with native and local Hawaiian sources. For their expertise and insight, she tapped Aunty Wendy Tuivaioge, director of Hawaiian programs at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, as well as David "Pua" Rochlen, who heads up the 60-year-old Hawaiian apparel brand Jams World (and is the son of its founder). She also drew from her own favorite designs and referenced her top packing priorities to curate this list.

Related: The Ultimate Hawaii Packing List

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Edited by Sophie Mendel Sophie Mendel is an editor at Travel + Leisure, where she assigns, edits, and publishes the product reviews and recommendations that help guide travelers toward the best shoes, apparel, accessories, and hotels for their needs. Sophie has traveled to 53 countries and lived in five, and is bilingual in English and Spanish. She has more than six years of experience as a writer, editor, and copywriter.