Table Contents
- The Ultimate Guide to Navy Blue Shirts for Men: Styles, How to Wear, and Where to Buy
- Contents
- Why Every Man Needs a Navy Blue Shirt
- Popular Styles of Navy Blue Shirts
- How to Style Navy Blue Shirts
- Fit and Fabric Considerations
- Best Navy Shirts at Brumano
- Caring for Your Navy Blue Shirts
- Navy Blue Shirts for Every Body Type
- Accessorizing Your Navy Blue Shirt
- FAQs
- Elevate Your Style with Brumano's Navy Shirts
Hawaiian shirts, also known as aloha shirts, have been a men's fashion staple for decades. These colorful, patterned button-up shirts are synonymous with tropical vacations, summer BBQs, and laid-back style. But how do you choose a great Hawaiian shirt and pull it off with confidence? Our men's fashion experts break it all down in this ultimate guide to men's Hawaiian shirts.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Hawaiian Shirt?
- History of the Hawaiian Shirt
- Features of Quality Hawaiian Shirts
- Popular Hawaiian Shirt Styles
- How to Style a Hawaiian Shirt
- Styling Ideas for Different Occasions
- Where to Buy the Best Hawaiian Shirts
- Top Hawaiian Shirt Picks from Brumano
- Caring for Your Hawaiian Shirts
- Hawaiian Shirts FAQs
What Is a Hawaiian Shirt?
A Hawaiian shirt is a collared, button-up shirt featuring colorful prints, often depicting tropical motifs like palm leaves, hibiscus flowers, surfboards, and marine life. Traditional Hawaiian shirts are cut short-sleeved and boxy, made of lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon for a comfortable, breathable fit in hot weather.
Linen Shirts
History of the Hawaiian Shirt
The iconic Hawaiian shirt originated in the 1930s in Honolulu, when local Japanese women adapted kimono fabric for men's shirting. Tailor Ellery Chun trademarked the term "Aloha shirt" in 1936 for his tropical print button-downs marketed to tourists.
After World War II, American servicemen returned from Hawaii and spread the Hawaiian shirt trend to the mainland. Celebs like Elvis Presley, Bing Crosby, and Frank Sinatra gave the shirts a boost in the 1950s. In the '80s, the Hawaiian shirt became cool again thanks to TV characters like Tom Selleck's Magnum P.I. Today, Hawaiian shirts are back in a big way, spotted everywhere from fashion runways to city streets.
How to Style Navy Blue Shirts
One of the best things about navy shirts is their versatility. Here are some outfit ideas:
Formal Occasions
For formal events, pair a crisp navy dress shirt with a suit or blazer, tie, and oxford shoes. A white pocket square adds a polished accent.
Smart Casual
Dress down a navy Oxford with chinos or dark denim, a brown leather belt, and loafers or white sneakers. Roll up the sleeves for a relaxed vibe.
Casual Everyday
For laidback days, choose a comfy navy tee or pique polo with jeans, chino shorts, or joggers. Finish with sneakers and sunglasses.
Features of Quality Hawaiian Shirts
Not all Hawaiian shirts are created equal! Here's what to look for to ensure you're getting a well-made, authentic aloha shirt:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| 100% cotton or linen fabric | Natural fibers like cotton and linen are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable in hot weather. Avoid polyester Hawaiian shirts, which can feel plasticky. |
| Coconut buttons | Genuine Hawaiian shirts use buttons made of coconut shell rather than plastic. This small detail enhances the tropical look. |
| Print matched at the seams | On a quality shirt, the print should line up across the pockets and side seams. Mismatched patterns indicate poor construction. |
| Double-stitched seams | The seams should be reinforced with two rows of stitching for added durability. Single-stitched seams may split. |
| Made in Hawaii label | For the most authentic Hawaiian shirts, look for ones that are actually made in Hawaii using high-quality materials and construction. |
Best Navy Shirts at Brumano
Brumano offers a wide range of high-quality, stylish navy shirts for men. Some top picks:
| Product | Image | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Navy Jacquard Shirt |  |
$32 |
| Striped Dress Shirt |  |
$36 |
| Diamond Print Oxford |  |
$34 |
| Pique Polo Shirt |  |
$22 |
Browse more navy shirt options at Brumano:
Shirts
Popular Hawaiian Shirt Styles
Hawaiian shirts come in a variety of cuts and prints to suit different tastes and occasions. These are some of the most popular styles:
Classic Floral Print
The original Hawaiian shirt print features vivid tropical flowers like hibiscus and plumeria in bright, contrasting colors like pink and green. This Navy Blue Multi Color Dot Casual Shirt exemplifies the classic floral look.
Toned-Down Tropical
Hawaiian shirts now come in subtler, smaller-scale prints for a modern look. This Navy Blue Floral Printed Half Sleeve Shirt features delicate palm leaves on a dark background - tropical style that's not too loud.
Abstract Modern Prints
For an updated take on the Hawaiian shirt, look for abstract prints that reference tropical motifs. This Blue Geometric Printed Formal Shirt has a cool, modern vibe while still evoking that laid-back aloha spirit.
Retro Camp Collar
Hawaiian shirts with camp collars (no-button collars) have a hip vintage look that's on-trend right now. Try this one from Brumano's retro collection.
How to Style a Hawaiian Shirt
The beauty of a Hawaiian shirt is its versatility - it can be styled dozens of ways! Here are some do's and don'ts for pulling off an aloha shirt:
Do...
✅ Pair it with simple bottoms like neutral chinos, linen pants, or denim shorts
✅ Dress it up with tailored trousers and loafers for a summer evening out
✅ Roll up the sleeves and unbutton a few buttons for a relaxed vibe
✅ Accessorize with naturals like a straw hat, woven belt, and leather sandals
✅ Wear it open as a summer jacket over a tee or tank
Don't...
🚫 Wear it with busy patterned bottoms - keep the rest of your outfit minimal
🚫 Button it all the way up to the neck
🚫 Tuck it in unless you're going for a 1950s throwback look
🚫 Accessorize with gimmicky tropical items like leis or grass skirts
🚫 Wear it buttoned up with a tie - too formal
Styling Ideas for Different Occasions
Here are some ways to style a Hawaiian shirt for various summer events:
Beach Vacation
Pair an easygoing linen Hawaiian shirt with linen shorts or chinos and strappy leather sandals for a comfortable beach look.
Outdoor Summer Wedding
Dress up a Hawaiian shirt in a dark neutral print with tailored trousers, loafers, and a lightweight blazer for a semi-formal event. This indigo style is a sophisticated choice.
Backyard BBQ
Go for a playful conversational print tee for a casual get-together. Just add chino shorts and canvas sneakers for a cool, retro-inspired outfit.
Casual Fridays at the Office
A subtle print Hawaiian shirt like this turquoise style can work for Casual Fridays tucked into chinos with loafers. Just keep the print work-appropriate.
Where to Buy the Best Hawaiian Shirts
There are many places to find high-quality Hawaiian shirts, from designer labels to vintage shops. For an extensive selection at great prices, we recommend checking out Brumano's Hawaiian shirt collection.
Brumano is a leading online retailer of men's fashion, specializing in stylish casual wear. Their Hawaiian shirts come in a variety of cuts, prints, and fabrics to suit any style. Plus, you can count on Brumano's high standards for quality construction and authentic detailing.
Some highlights of shopping Hawaiian shirts at Brumano:
- 100s of Hawaiian shirt styles to choose from, with new designs added regularly
- High-quality natural fabrics like 100% cotton and linen for a comfortable fit
- Unique prints developed in-house by Brumano's textile designers
- Coconut shell buttons and print-matched pockets for an authentic look
- Excellent customer service, with free shipping on orders over $50 and easy returns
- Detailed product descriptions and photos so you know exactly what you're getting
Elevate Your Style with Brumano's Navy Shirts
Ready to add some versatile, flattering navy blue shirts to your wardrobe? Brumano has you covered with a wide selection of high-quality options for every occasion, style, and body type. From crisp dress shirts to casual tees, our navy shirts are designed to keep you looking sharp.
At Brumano, we're committed to providing the best in men's fashion. With fast shipping, easy returns, and top-notch customer service, we make it simple to find your new favorite shirts. Update your closet with our stylish, well-made navy shirts and experience the confidence that comes with a great fit and timeless color. Shop our collection today and see the difference for yourself.
New Arrivals
Top Hawaiian Shirt Picks from Brumano
To get you started, here are a few of our favorite Hawaiian shirts currently available at Brumano:
 |
 |
 |
| White Pique Polo With Grey Sporty Collar | Sky Blue Large Paisley Printed Shirt | Turquoise Checkered Long Sleeve Casual Shirt |
Caring for Your Hawaiian Shirts
With proper care, a well-made Hawaiian shirt can last for many summers. Here are some tips for keeping your Hawaiian shirts looking their best:
- Always check the care tag and follow the instructions
- Machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle or hand wash
- Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach which can damage the fibers
- Hang to dry - the dryer can shrink or tear the fabric
- If needed, iron inside-out on a low setting to prevent damage to the print
- Avoid dry cleaning unless specified on the care tag
Hawaiian Shirts FAQs
Still have questions about wearing Hawaiian shirts? We've got answers to some common queries:
What's the difference between a Hawaiian shirt and an aloha shirt?
There's no difference - "Hawaiian shirt" and "aloha shirt" are two terms for the same garment. Aloha shirt is more commonly used in Hawaii, while Hawaiian shirt is the popular term on the US mainland.
Are Hawaiian shirts tacky?
It depends on the style and how you wear it! Cheap, overly loud Hawaiian shirts can look tasteless, but a well-made aloha shirt in a refined print is perfectly stylish. Fit is also key - avoid baggy, shapeless Hawaiian shirts and opt for a modern, tailored cut.
Can I wear a Hawaiian shirt to work?
That depends on your workplace dress code. A subtle print Hawaiian shirt can be appropriate for Casual Fridays in some offices, tucked into chinos. But in most professional settings, it's best to save the Hawaiian shirts for off-duty hours.
What shoes should I wear with a Hawaiian shirt?
Boat shoes, loafers, espadrilles, and leather sandals are all great options for a refined look. For a casual outfit, canvas sneakers or slip-ons work well. Avoid athletic trainers or flip-flops, which can look sloppy.
Do Hawaiian shirts shrink?
Yes, Hawaiian shirts made from 100% cotton or linen can shrink if you put them in a hot dryer. To avoid shrinkage, hang your Hawaiian shirts to air dry or tumble dry on low. You may need to size up if you plan to machine dry regularly.
Are Hawaiian shirts cultural appropriation?
No - although Hawaiian shirts originated in Hawaii and are infused with local culture, they are not considered sacred, and anyone can wear them respectfully. In fact, many Hawaiians appreciate seeing their culture celebrated through the worldwide popularity of aloha attire.
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