A Brief History of the Iconic Hawaiian Shirt – SSLR

A Brief History of the Iconic Hawaiian Shirt

by Saida Miller on December 21, 2022

The Hawaiian shirt, also known as an "aloha shirt", is a style that has been worn by people around the world since its introduction in the early 1900s. People from the United States mainland have long been drawn to Hawaii's vibrant culture and renowned beauty, and wealthy travelers early in the 20th century returned home with vividly hued fabrics that eventually inspired the classic Hawaiian prints we know today. This iconic style has since become synonymous with relaxed beach-side fashion and has developed into the highly sought-after trend it is today.


Throughout the style’s evolution, the Hawaiian shirt has undergone various phases of popularity, starting with its emergence as casual attire at beaches and summer resorts during the 1920s. By the mid-20th century, aloha shirts had become an accepted form of fashion across all seasons and all social classes. A revival in the 1980s with bolder colors and slimmer fits brought the aloha shirt back into fashion, and today, its popularity continues to grow as a symbol of laid-back summer style. Contemporary designers have taken notice and updated the classic pattern accordingly. Dive into the unique past of this celebrated fashion statement with this brief history of the Hawaiian shirt.

When were hawaiian shirts popular

The 1920s: Casual Wear at Beaches and Summer Resorts

The Hawaiian shirt first made its appearance as casual wear at beaches and summer resorts in the 1920s. This period marked a shift in fashion culture, with people becoming more comfortable with wearing colorful styles and prints. What began as a utilitarian piece of clothing for beach days quickly blossomed into something much more meaningful – a sign of leisurely style that was simultaneously relaxed, vibrant, and reflective of the spirit of Hawaii.


As men and women alike became increasingly fond of these shirts, their popularity skyrocketed. By the mid-1920s, they were being worn from coast to coast at all sorts of exclusive events such as dances, parties, sailing regattas, and private clubs. Florence Kittredge, a true trendsetter from the 1920s, is credited with introducing the Hawaiian shirt to those of high society. Her choice to wear a Hawaiian print to a yacht club party in 1923 sparked a wave of popularity for this distinctive piece of fashion, as its bold colors, intricate patterns, and traditional floral designs made it unlike anything else available at the time. Socialites and celebrities soon followed suit, wearing their own Hawaiian shirts to exclusive gatherings and even high-brow events.

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The 1940s and 1950s: Modernizing the Aloha Shirt

By the 1940s, the aloha shirt was becoming accepted as an everyday fashion piece. Designers began to modernize the classic print, adding new colors and patterns while incorporating Hawaiian-inspired motifs such as tiki statues, hula dancers, and tropical flowers. It was during this period that the term “aloha shirt” emerged, although it wasn't until the 1950s that it began to take off in mainstream culture. Aloha shirts gained traction as a symbol of cool and casually stylish summer apparel.

hawaiian shirts

The Hawaiian Shirt Becomes an Accepted Form of Fashion

This is when Hawaiian shirts became omnipresent in popular culture. On the silver screen, Hawaiian shirts were prominent in films such as 1953’s From Here to Eternity, where Burt Lancaster could be seen sporting an iconic red and black version, and Elvis Presley donned a bold yellow Hawaiian print during his performance of “Blue Hawaii.” In the decades that followed, the Hawaiian shirt came to represent the effortless style of summer and evolved into an accepted form of fashion. In the 1960s, aloha shirts were so popular that even US President John F. Kennedy sported one for an official White House meeting.


This surge in popularity had a transformative effect on how these garments were perceived by society at large; Hawaiian shirts began to become accepted among all classes of people - making them both trendy and functional pieces of clothing. As their acceptance rose, so too did their transition to everyday wear. Instances of individuals wearing aloha shirts outside of beach resorts becoming increasingly common. They also saw somewhat of a surge within certain urban subcultures. Musicians, painters, and writers began to identify with the aloha shirt due to its association with leisurely culture and adopted this fashion piece as part of their personal style. Creative expression was and remains key to the aloha shirt experience as wearers have a unique opportunity to express their individuality through pattern and color. Surfers in California also began wearing Hawaiian shirts on the beach, giving rise to what is now referred to as “surf style.” The combination of tradition, functionality, and style created an article of clothing that is never far from the public eye - providing an unmistakable symbol of summer fun over generations.

aloha shirts

1980s Revival: Bold Colors and Wild Patterns

In the 1980s, we saw a major resurgence in the popularity of Hawaiian shirts. The loud and colorful prints were very much at home within the larger neon-soaked and synth-dominated culture of the decade. Influential musicians such as Duran Duran, David Bowie, and Prince could be seen wearing them during music videos and photoshoots - helping to cement the role of the Hawaiian shirt as one of the signature fashion statements of the era. Similarly, they became increasingly common at fashion outlets, which allowed people to find lush patterns at accessible prices. To add to their appeal, Hawaiian shirts featured innovative detailing:  some had pockets for holding cigarettes, sunglasses, and other trinkets; others were made with brighter colors or longer sleeves - making them perfect for a range of occasions.
This gave rise to a new hybrid form of fashion that blended retro influences and modernity into one inviting package. It proved to be so successful that Hawaiian shirts are still widely sought after today; worn both as throwaway beachwear or carefully selected statement pieces - they have transitioned into true style classics over time.

aloha shirts

Modern Takes on Hawaiian Shirts

Hawaiian shirts have come a long way since the 1980s, transforming from bold statement pieces into modern staples of everyday fashion. Contemporary designer labels are often seen reworking classic Hawaiian shirt designs with updated fits and fabrics, offering a sophisticated take on the traditional vibrant prints. The demand for Hawaiian shirts has been especially strong in recent years; bold prints have become the norm - with unexpected colors, abstract shapes, and interesting textures taking precedence over more traditional patterns. The truth is that any wardrobe is sure to benefit from a Hawaiian shirt, granting a unique look and feel that is both timeless and modern.


SSLR, a clothing brand that seeks to redefine aloha and Hawaiian shirts with its motto "To Be, To Create" offers refined silhouettes mixed with intricate detailing alongside vivid and exciting colorways. This has made SSLR  a go-to brand for those in search of stylish Hawaiian shirts with a modern twist. With something for everyone, they have become one of the premier labels when it comes to modern Hawaiian and aloha shirts.

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The Enduring Appeal of Aloha Shirts

Hawaiian shirts have long been a beloved symbol of leisure wear, and their presence in pop culture has only served to reinforce their popularity around the world. The influence of Hawaiian shirts in movies like "Moana," "Lilo & Stitch," and "Crazy Rich Asians" have showcased the beauty of these fashion statements to a global audience. Television shows, music videos, and other media outlets paint a vivid picture for viewers who observe and absorb these messages. From beloved shows like "Hawaii Five-0" to hit music videos such as Bruno Mars’s "24K Magic", viewers are able to witness captivating designs and unique prints that feature distinct cultural influences.


Island culture and traditions have been woven into the fabric of aloha shirts, creating a timeless canvas for generations to enjoy. As the popularity of Hawaiian shirts continues to grow, there is no doubt that they will remain a fashion staple. The bold colors, intricate designs and classic floral patterns found on Aloha shirts evoke feelings of joy, comfort, and nostalgia - all of which makes them a must-have for any fashion aficionado. After decades of evolution, Hawaiian and Aloha shirts are still unparalleled style statements that look great in any setting. From beachside BBQs to a night out on the town, these garments remain companions that will last for many years to come.

aloha shirts

Hawaiian Shirts as a Cultural Symbol: Global Impact Through Viewers' Eyes

The Hawaiian shirt is no longer just a fun beachwear choice. It can easily be used to make a statement in your everyday style. For a bold look, the eye-catching prints, patterns, and color combinations are perfect for expressing yourself and standing out from the crowd. The bright colors of Hawaiian shirts will also help to add a tropical vibe to any outfit that can be further enhanced with matching florals and vivid palettes. If you’re looking for something more professional, Hawaiian style can still be incorporated into business attire with subtlety while still making an impression. Ties, socks, and even Hawaiian dress shirts can make an appearance in the office! With careful color coordination and attention to detail, unique styles can be fashioned with ease using classic Hawaiian prints as part of your ensemble.

Creative Uses of the Hawaiian Shirt in Everyday Style

Hawaiian shirts are a beloved symbol of leisure wear across all seasons, providing a relaxed and stylish look for any occasion. SSLR offers unique Aloha shirts in various styles and colorways to suit the tastes of any fashion enthusiast, and with an extensive range of holiday-themed designs including Christmas Hawaiian shirts, there is sure to be a style for you. Whether layered over a simple t-shirt or worn unbuttoned over a tank, the Hawaiian shirt is an excellent choice for showing off your individual style. With so many versatile garments to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect statement piece for any occasion. Whether you are embracing a Hawaiian style or simply looking for something fresh and vibrant, SSLR has the perfect solution for you. With their refined fits and bold prints, SSLR's Hawaiian shirts offer something truly special for those who want to make a statement.

Distinctive Features of Hawaiian Shirts

Interestingly, many Hawaiian shirt prints feature distinct cultural symbols or patterns that pay tribute to their roots. From floral prints reminiscent of traditional designs to subtle nods to the islands' vibrant wildlife, many of the prints used to create these garments evoke a sense of nostalgia and pride. The use of vibrant colors is also purposeful and designed to represent the bright shades of the sea and sky that can be seen in the beautiful Hawaiian landscape.


Additionally, the fabric used is often lightweight and typically made from a blend of cotton and silk, which allows the shirt to be breathable while still being comfortable to wear. Buttons are an iconic part of the Hawaiian shirt design. They are often pastel in color or feature intricate floral patterns, and these subtle details add character to any outfit. Choosing hues like vivid blues or greens will reflect the sun-kissed sunny days that make Hawaii so special, while earthy tones like navy and brown add a subtle yet stylish touch to any ensemble. Softer shades such as pinks and yellows create a more laid-back beach look that is perfect for those endless summer afternoons. When it comes to making a statement, the distinctive fabric, buttons, details, and colors of the classic Hawaiian shirt offer endless possibilities for creative styling that will make you stand out from the crowd.



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Concluding Thoughts

Hawaiian and aloha shirts are a timeless fashion statement. Their bright colors, intricate designs, and classic floral patterns provide endless possibilities for creative styling and self-expression.  Through the years, these classic garments have become a symbol of leisure and style, allowing fashion enthusiasts to express their individual styles with ease. Whether you’re looking for a bold statement piece or something more subtle, there is sure to be a Hawaiian shirt that will suit your needs. From vibrant colors to relaxed fits, SSLR offers a range of stylish options that are sure to make any outfit stand out. So why not add a Hawaiian shirt to your wardrobe today? There will always be something new to explore when it comes to this iconic fashion staple!

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