Fashion trends are recycled every few years or so. Even the previously ridiculed shiny shell-suit, originally bought in a long-forgotten decade, has found its way back into contemporary style. I’ve seen them at Urban Outfitters this summer.
We’ve also had a resurgence of 1950s-style short trousers; everything from the 1980s and hell, even flares are supposedly cool again. Garish 1990s trainers ( la Fila) are in vogue too. Surely, soon, overly gelled hair, ridiculously baggy jeans and cheap metal chains will return.
So it’s no surprise that Hawaiian and floral shirts have made a resounding comeback. After heydays in the 1950s and 1980s, a 30-year cycle seems to have emerged, and they can be spotted everywhere. Previously, barely acceptable holiday fare– always worn in jest – the Hawaiian shirt is a now a 2018 summer staple.
At online retailer ASOS, where they come with all sorts of patterns, sales are up 64% on last year. Everyone from Harry Styles to Brooklyn Beckham has the look. They are cool again.
The pieces are said to have been introduced to Hawaii in the 1930s and have roots in Chinese and Japanese immigration. Also known as Aloha shirts, Hawaiian shirts are incredibly varied, ranging from highly questionable to more hipster.
Cinema has played a crucial role in giving Hawaiian shirts their iconic status. In 1961, Elvis Presley wore a simple, elegant red shirt for the hit Blue Hawaii. And who could forget Al Pacino in a similar red number, blood pouring down his cheeks in Scarface.
Men’s retailers at all levels of the marketplace are embracing the revival. Upmarket outlets stocking them include an exclusive range by Prada. Their elegant floral shirts can be yours for a prohibitive £640. But for the friendlier price of £85, All Saints have all manner of colourful, flowery offerings.
The tropical shirt says something very positive about you. It boasts confidence and effuses a bright aura. If you’re that kind of guy, then get Hawaiian!
