If there’s one item of clothing that embodies the spirit of summer and vacations, it’s undoubtedly the Hawaiian shirt. Bursting with vibrant colors and often depicting playful tropical scenes, the Hawaiian shirt (also known as the Aloha shirt) brings a dash of excitement to any outfit. But figuring out what to wear with it can be a bit challenging. Fret not! Here are some styling tips to make your Hawaiian shirt stand out stylishly.
1. Pair with Solid, Neutral Colors
The cardinal rule of wearing a Hawaiian shirt is to let it be the centerpiece of your outfit. As they usually boast bright colors and bold patterns, pairing them with solid, neutral bottoms will make your ensemble balanced. Stick with navy, black, beige, khaki, or white pants or shorts. These colors complement the flamboyance of the shirt without overshadowing it.
2. Go for Denim
Whether it’s a classic pair of blue jeans or a trendy denim skirt, denim is a fantastic pairing with Hawaiian shirts. The ruggedness of denim contrasts beautifully with the relaxed, tropical vibe of the shirt. A rule of thumb: keep the fit slim or straight to balance the loose silhouette of the Hawaiian shirt.
3. Smart Casual Blending
Contrary to what many might think, Hawaiian shirts can be blended into a smart casual look. Try layering it unbuttoned over a solid, neutral t-shirt and pair it with tailored chinos or slacks. Add a pair of loafers or dress shoes, and you’re ready to bring a tropical twist to your business casual look.
4. Embrace the Tropical Aesthetic
There’s no harm in fully embracing the tropical aesthetic of the Hawaiian shirt. Pair it with a straw hat, sunglasses, and comfortable sandals for that perfect beach-ready look. It’s an ideal outfit choice for vacations, summer parties, or any event where you want to inject a bit of fun and color.
5. Pair with All-White Ensemble
For an outfit that truly lets your Hawaiian shirt shine, consider pairing it with an all-white ensemble. This could be a pair of white linen trousers, a white denim skirt, or white shorts. The result is a fresh, summery look that emphasizes the colorful print of your shirt.
6. Winter Styling
Don’t pack away your Hawaiian shirts once the colder months roll around. These shirts can be layered under a solid-colored sweater or cardigan, peaking out for a pop of summer cheeriness in winter. Pair it with dark jeans or pants to keep it season-appropriate.
7. Dress It Up with a Blazer
Don’t limit your Hawaiian shirt to casual occasions. For a formal event, try pairing your Hawaiian shirt with a solid-colored blazer, some nice trousers, and polished dress shoes. It’s a fun yet sophisticated look that’s sure to turn heads for the right reasons.
8. Accessorize Wisely
Accessories can either make or break your outfit. Given that the Hawaiian shirt is a statement piece itself, it’s best to keep accessories minimal and simple. Classic sunglasses, a simple belt, a nice watch, or a discreet bracelet can elevate your look without making it appear overdone.
Remember, the key to pulling off a Hawaiian shirt stylishly is to balance its boldness with simpler, more understated pieces. With the right pairing, you can turn this vibrant item into a versatile wardrobe staple. So, go ahead and embrace the Aloha spirit in style!
