Heading to Hawaii or some other serenely beautiful tropical location for vacation? It’s never too soon to start thinking about what to wear while soaking up those warm sun rays. Luckily, you can get by with a few key wardrobe pieces. This guide shares what they are and gives you ideas on how to make the most of them.
Hawaiian Shirts
Hawaiian shirts are the ultimate go-to top for any vacation in the tropics. Basically, these are lightweight shirts with various colorful patterns (some styles are in solid colors). Originally created in the 1930s, the Hawaiian shirt has become a must have staple for many men. Colors and patterns are infinite in their variety. The standard shirt style is button-down with a laid-back collar. Depending on your body type and style preferences, shirts appear fitted or slightly loose. When choosing a printed floral shirt, you have several cool style options.
All-over Print. This style showcases a specific print pattern on the front, back, collar and sleeves. Flowers are heavily represented, but you can also find patterns featuring pineapples, palm trees, fish, birds or musical instruments.
Engineered and Border Print. These captivating shirts feature bold, unique graphics that require expert craftsmanship. Border styles showcase eye-popping graphics against a solid color background. The background itself may feature an object from the print in the same background color. Engineered styles often mix a bold graphic with a contrasting pattern in the same color family. Packed with personality, these are great to wear to parties and special events.
Scenic Print. This style engagingly captures the splendid scenery of tropical islands or a scenic road route. Common imagery includes flowers, palm trees and sandy island knolls. Popular shirt themes include boating, golfing and motorbiking.
Vintage Print. The original beach shirt is back. The vintage style Hawaiian shirt is made of luxurious silk or rayon and prints are typically more subdued, yet lively. This style is perfect for guys who love the retro look.
Wear it three different ways. Easily change your floral shirt look with these three fashion tips.
Classic– Button the shirt all the way up and completely tuck-in the bottom.
Relaxed– Undo one or more buttons at the collar to show off some skin. Create a French tuck by tucking in the front, leaving the back bottom out, or leave the entire shirt bottom completely out.
Layered Relaxed– Wear the shirt unbuttoned and untucked over a solid color t-shirt.
Shorts and Slacks
Men’s floral shirts look great when paired with casual slacks, khakis or a nice pair of men’s shorts. Think crisp and clean vs. tattered and grungy. While you can wear jeans with Aloha shirts, jeans tend to make you look more “dressed down” than snazzy. If that’s what you want — cool. Otherwise, stick with slacks in neutral hues such as blue, navy, black, olive and tan. Depending on your activities, white or cream bottoms work well too. Try rolling up the bottom of your pants legs for a hipster look.
Shoe Selection
Sandals are okay for the beach. In all other settings choose comfortable boat shoes, loafers or walking shoes that go well with your outfit. Footwear should be in great condition. Leave those shabby sneakers at home.