[thomj513]

I've gotten really into Bowling/Camp/Cuban/Hawaiian shirts over the past few years when my wife bought one for me from the local CVS store. I love the colors and patterns plus the tailoring of the shirts compliment my somewhat rolly-polly shape. I researched some makers on-line but figured I'd ask the folks in-the-know what are some of the historically significant makers or brands that I should keep a eye open for. Also, any new makers that are note worthy. Thanks in advance.

 

[Dhaller]

Well, I'm a die-hard Tori Richard fan myself, to the point that I wear almost nothing else from May through September; that said, the TR shirts are more subtle than the usual "aloha" shirts (generally.)

Reyn Spooner, of course, is the Microsoft of aloha shirts. Or maybe the Apple. Anyway, the gorilla in the room, tons of styles and so on, good quality. Not as comfy as Tori Richard (IMHO).

But if you're going to be an enthusiast, know that the créme of aloha shirting is various small makers in Hawaii (and Japan). Kamehameha Garments is an good example of a classic, Hawaii-based maker.

Couple of things. I would limit myself to shirts made in Hawaii, but fabrics don't have to come from there (I'd say the best fabrics are sourced in Japan, and maybe some silks from Thailand). Also do pay attention to care instructions, so you don't saddle yourself with a ton of "dry clean only" shirts (many of the Tori Richard silk shirts are DCO.)

In terms of the Venn-diagrammatic sweet spot of practicality, wearability, and comfort, my #1 rec is (easily) Tori Richard's "cotton lawn" shirts. Super-comfy, machine wash, tumble dry, quick press, and good to go.

DH

 

[Andy]

Didn't you see my July article?

Short History of Hawaiian Shirts

Written by Andy Gilchrist Aloha! Hawaiian or Aloha shirts: Boldly patterned, bright colored, loose fitting shirts introduced in the Hawaiian Islands in the 1920’s. They are collared, buttoned down the front, casual shirts, usually short-sleeved, made from printed fabric, and are typically...

www.askandyaboutclothes.com

 

[thomj513]

Didn't you see my July article?

Short History of Hawaiian Shirts

Written by Andy Gilchrist Aloha! Hawaiian or Aloha shirts: Boldly patterned, bright colored, loose fitting shirts introduced in the Hawaiian Islands in the 1920’s. They are collared, buttoned down the front, casual shirts, usually short-sleeved, made from printed fabric, and are typically...

www.askandyaboutclothes.com

Nope. But I will definitely read it.

 

[Tom Buchanan]

I like the Reyn Spooner shirts with the trad details of button down collar and popover placket.

Reyn spooner used to be called the Brooks Brothers of the Pacific.

Men's Pullover Fit | Reyn Spooner Traditional Aloha Shirts

The original Spooner fit – the pullover features the same details, comfort, and freedom of movement as the classic button front, with an easy-going 3-button popover placket only found in a Spooner.

www.reynspooner.com

 

[215339]

A lot of this depends on what style of prints you like.

I prefer Abercrombie & Fitch's camp collar shirts. Reasonably priced and well made. I've 3 in subtle floral/fruit patterns.

I've also found Portuguese Flannel, carried by No Man Walks Alone. They seem to use more "retro" prints.

 

[thomj513]

Thanks folks for all your input. I noticed that I have a couple of the Tori Richards shirts in my collection; very comfy and love the colors and patterns. Andy's article is also very helpful. Thx again.