During the 1930′s floral patterns in women’s clothing transcended into the realm of men’s clothing with the advent of the Hawaiian shirt, also known as the Aloha shirt in Hawaii. At that time the floral pattern became acceptable for men, and continues to be so today.
During the 1930′s sailors stationed at Pearl Harbor in Honolulu began sending these unique tropical patterns home to their male friends and family members as souvenirs. This new style of apparel merged with other Western and Asian clothing to form the popular Hawaiian wear. Hawaiian clothing companies soon found a market throughout the United States and other parts of the world due to their distinctive tropical flair. In fact it was the men’s floral shirts that transferred its style to women’s fashions in the form of bright colorful women’s shirts, sarongs, and dresses.
These beautiful Hawaiian shirts have evolved from the unique culture of Hawaii, that is known for its breathtaking tropical surrounding and colorful flowers, as well as its mild climate. The Hawaiian shirts constitute not only floral prints, but images of surfer boys and hula girls, palm trees and pineapples. Hawaii is known as the “Paradise Island”, which also transcends into its shirts with its enchanting bird of paradise patterns amidst vibrant tropical flowers.
A man may get a few chuckles if he walks down the street (other than in Hawaii) in his colorful Hawaiian shirt, but it is, in fact, a welcoming site. He should not be embarrassed to display his relaxed, comfortable, summertime style. You have to admit, he probably adds a bit of color and character to an otherwise drab city street. Besides, Elvis Presley wore them when he visited Hawaii. And he was the King of Cool. So get your Elvis glasses on and strut!
A Hawaiian shirt is always a welcome site at a club, beach party or summertime barbecue. A man can look fashionable, yet casual and comfortable all at the same time. There are more elegant Hawaiian shirts of silk that can be worn at a more formal event, such as parties, the theater or even a casual backyard wedding.
The border shirt is another classic Hawaiian shirt style. It usually depicts a tropical garden design or seascape design with flowers, waves and other tropical subjects. Of course, the border shirt, like other Hawaiian shirts, is never meant to be tucked inside a shirt.
Many popular, casual restaurants have adapted the look that encompasses the style of the Hawaiian shirt, which makes for a fun and relaxed atmosphere. In fact, the Hawaiian shirt is not only synonymous with a Hawaiian vacation, but with a festive and fun atmosphere in many other locations as well.