I love "Aloha Shirts", even if some can be awfully tacky looking. I wanted to buy one with "Hawai'i" on it all over the place, which was old as Methusaluh, but ... it was going for thousands of dollars so ... that option was out!
Funny (well, kinda ...) story: My cousin and I separated from each other for a day on our trip to O'ahu. No biggie. We just needed our space! Well, he went to the Goodwill store in Waikiki and bought me an "Aloha" shirt. What he did NOT notice was that not only was the shirt made "inside out" but, the tag said, "Kamaaina" (ha, ha). I pointed this out to him and told him, in no uncertain terms, that I was only going to wear the shirt, on Da Mainland, and in private (you know, in my own home). I know the guy meant well, but, still ... I knew better. I knew what was jokingly made for stupid tourists and what was not.
If you don't like to iron and want a shirt that'll last you many years, I recommend Reyns. They also came out with a slim fit a few years ago, if you want a less baggy option. The broad cloth that they use really stands up to years of washing. You'll probably end up donating the shirt before you wear it out.
Yeah, I still wear some of my Dads Reyns that are 35 years old and they still look brand new 😁👍 I have a white Tori Richards, the feel is soft, and people always compliment it.the Reyns are not soft, and I love them for it.
@@adamshipley5415 Agree, not a soft shirt and its a stiffer type of fabric - just so crazy how long those shirts hold up after many times of wear and all the washing.
My wife used to work at Reyn's in Kapalua on Maui when we lived there years ago. She would bring some home for me and at first they felt a little scratchy on my skin but the heavier material wouldn't stick to it and after a few washings they became quite comfortable. I stuck with them because I loved the distinctive designs. You can always recognize a Reyn Spooner Aloha shirt by the distinctive faded look! I definitely outgrew them before wearing them out.
I used to think aloha shirts were cheesy, but then I wandered into a Tori Richard store, and now I'm hooked. I bought 3 of them, and plan to buy more if we can ever get back to Hawaii. I find the made in Hawaii shirts the best quality.
Most of the aloha shirts in my closet (close to 3 dozen currently) are Reyn Spooner or Tori Richard. Love the classic prints that they both produce! I couldn't always afford the more expensive ones and I understand your concern about the price, but I've found that, if I want shirts that will last and hold their shape, I have to pay more for the better ones. I definitely get my money's worth out of them in the long run, which is why I have such a collection of aloha shirts.
Kahala is my favourite too, but I am getting more Reyn Spooner. When I worked at the State Legislature, I noticed all the big wigs wore Sig Zane (very expensive, but amazing designs). I buy most at Salvation Army off the Nimitz. The Baretania Street store is quickly picked though for the good ones. I like a slim fit too and when I lived in Asia I had several of my boxier ones tailored. Now I can never afford to gain weight!
The green Ari South fits you perfs! Good choice by your wifey! My BF wears Reyn's because they don't wrinkle, Sig Zane because, well, it's Sig Zane...and Tori's. Wish he didn't mind wearing second-hand it would save him some money, but buying brand new is a must for him.
I love Reyn Spooners! Durable and easy to care for and they have sales all the time. They kind of have a more formal cut which is great in an office but really nice designs that you can go out in. The non-fitted shirts run a little large(baggy) like most Aloha shirts. I usually get a size smaller than I would get for a normal shirt which gives it a more fitted/slim look.. Kahala's are great too! Can't go wrong with the OG!
Really enjoyed your video! I really like the quality of Reyn's, the stitching (pocket blend), heavier material and being able to wash'n wear. But one day I saw a co-worker wear this STAND OUT Aloha shirt that was stunning and asked him who the maker was... SIG ZANE. So I made it a point to visit their shop the next time I went to Hilo... and bought my very first Sig Zane. I couldn't believe how comfortable it was to wear, and whenever I wore it, the compliments were endless. So now, whenever I'm in Hilo, I pick up a few of their latest designs, and also visit their downtown Honolulu store (only open Fridays). True, they're expensive... but my wife seems to think that buying 1/month is pacing herself... and has added it to our budget as a recurring monthly expense. LOL, I concurred... and have a closet full of SZ!
My favorite is Tori Richards but I am now cutting back on Aloha Shirts due to hybrid work from home where I can wear basically raggy shirts at home while working. Thinking of getting rid a lot of my so so Aloha Shirts and sell them at the second hand shops but keep the really nice ones that I really like. It took me awhile to know how to pick nice Aloha Shirts but many people at work really like the unique sheek Aloha shirts I find.
I'm glad you made this video. Whenever I'm in Hawaii I'm afraid to wear an Aloha shirt for fear of looking like a wannabe or just standing out too much.
I just discovered your channel and love it! My husband has really good luck with the Reyn Spooner and Kahala fit, and loves their patterns. He teaches and wears them to school. 🙂
While doing research on aloha shirt designs I stumbled on this awesome video! Great content, love your choices! On the subject of finding a brand that fits your body size it's hard to find a company that fits the "Polynesian" body type, aka. the big and tall sizes so I decided to start my own! Glad I found your vid and became an instant subscriber! Mahalo again!
I’ve bought all brands for my hubby and son. This year I got lazy for Christmas…. Went down the street from my home to the Shops Of Wailea. Bought several aloha shirts at Tommy Bahama ( I know how cliche’). Hey got a nice lunch with my daughter from the gift cards with purchase!👕🌺🩴💋
Also had some friends that bought shirts from T &L Muumuu Factory. At that time, they were at Keeaumoku/Kapiolani but now they're on Cooke st in Kakaako
I love all my Aloha Shirts. I have pretty much every brand you mentioned. I buy a lot of them second hand. I have paid from $9.99 to Tommy Bahama at $149! I wear them a lot locally and when in Hawaii. This week I was in Las Vegas wearing an Aloha shirt and was ask if I was from Hawaii. Wish I could have said yes. Love the video. Good job. Aloha
I still have my Ono brand (Liberty House) Aloha Shirts. Ono was a brand I could afford when I lived in Hawaii. They look “local” and not expensive compare to the high end brands, like Reyn Spooner.
I notice the cheaper ones tend to shrink a lot. My go to is Kahala. I have an Ari South tank top and love the material. Been looking at Manuheali'i, Rix and ManaOla brands.
Touristy shirts I love the Hilo Hattie shirts - they are bold, great material, and really fit well. Last time I stayed on the island, I found a place - "East Honolulu Clothing Company" store on the windward side that had some great shirts (are a bit pricey), but I really liked them because they are a local clothing brand. Side note - there was an ice cream shop in the same shopping plaza that has some of the best macadamia nut ice cream i have ever had!
I always saw the Reyn's as being the Executive look when I was working. Although, there are some nice designs that I remember Sig Zane and Mamo having when I accompanied my wife while shopping in the younger days. Lots of variety and design for every taste.
Aloha, it is sad that Kahala and Reyn Spooner make most of there shirts in China and Malaysia. Not on the Island. I like to buy some old school prints, but it very hard for me in Germany. Right now I really like Two Palms, RJC and Aloha Republic. Maybe you can make a video about the different look from local Aloha shirts and tourist shirts. And the reverse prints from the old school shirts. I really love Aloha shirts and like to see more content on your channel. Aloha and Mahalo for your videos. Oliver
Chris, I moved to Okinawa, japan 2 years ago. Here, we have similiar aloha type shirts. The cheaper ones go for $35 to $40 bucks. The average aloha shirt cost is between $80-$95 dollars. I've seen some expensive ones for $335.00. In terms of cost as to what is expensive, I guess it depends on the buyer. Just using this as a cost comparison. Thanks for the video, stay healthy and safe!
How’s Okinawa? I’ve missed ‘two trips because of Covid restrictions, but I did make it back to Maui in November. My grandfather and mom are from Sunabe and I still have tons of family there. I really miss my family and living there. Anyway, how much are the Reyn Spooners there? If they even sell them there. Here in California, they’re pretty pricey, but they are my favorites. I’ve been wearing them since the ‘80s and still love the heavier cotton faded looking patterns.
Quick tip, find an aunty with a sewing machine (or surger) and you can make an off the rack Kahala look bespoke af in about 15min very easily. Added bonus, you'll think twice about that next loco moco plate if that means your shirts will start getting too snug.
I have Tori Richards, Cooke Street, Tommy Bahamas and many of the brands you mentioned. I now love Reyns Aloha shirts. Good quality, easy to wash and wear. Reyns is the best! I own more than 20 Reyns!
I live on the mainland and lately I've been wearing my Aloha shirts more often to avoid from being hassled for being Asian...Hey bro, I am from Hawaii!🤙
Hilo Hattie. I worked at the one in Orange, CA when it was going. Been out of business on the mainland for a while now which saddens me. (There was a smaller store in San Diego that was closer to me). Yes we carried Tori Richard. I believe they were $80-85, mostly silk. That was 15 years ago.
Only owned 1 purple/violet Aloha shirt my entire life I lived in Hawaii from the 90s to 2021. I regret not collecting more but I only like the one's made of Rayon regardless of brand.
Moved to Hawaii in 1981 and I REFUSE to give in to the bland, office-attire aloha wear. I understand it, and why local people prefer the more understated look, but I’m tacky at heart. I collect Hawaiian shirts, nearly all from thrift stores, and they MUST be brightly colored with unusual design elements…huge tikis, cocktails, large abstract flowers, etc. and I wear them with vintage tiki necklaces. I used to like Tommy Bahama, but over the past several years they’ve lost their whimsical designs and become more “Cooke Street.” …not interested. For me, a good aloha shirt is one you can seeing coming a block away, lol. And DOWN with reverse print!!!! 😎
I think an important part of being an authentic aloha shirt is that they must be made in Hawaii. Are these brands made there or they Imports? I doubt Quicksilver makes anything in the Stares.
Sig Zane would be my top choice but they are pricey. I like the designs of Roberta Oaks. They’re more slim fitting as you like, but I’ve never owned one.
Reyns is my favorite ... I make my own Aloha shirts BUT my son loves ALL of his Aloha shirts ... & mine 😁... the ones I make for him. He is tall so he likes his shirts long lol 😂😂
Most of my stuff is Tori Richard and Quicksilver Waterman. I have some Tommy Bahama as well but it’s not always a good fit and with price being similar to Tori Richard I’d give the nod to Tori Richard. Cannot for the life of me wear a Reyn Spooner. Those things are so stiff they could walk out of the store by themselves.
Reyn Spooner is the old #1 at least I dunno about these days. And does Hang Ten still make shirts? I've had good luck finding Quicksilver shirts at discount places like Ross and Marshall's ... basically at least on the mainland, what they're calling a small is really a medium. Since Quicksilvers are made overseas, I think some Smalls actually get made as Smalls, and then they end up in discount stores. Also, another hint is, if you're on the small/short side, boys' sizes for da WIN! Get 14-16 or the rarer 16-18 and see how those fit you.
I prefer the slim fit look without a lot of excess fabric and wear it untucked. I really like Ari South but it is pricey. Otherwise Kahala and Reyn spooner are my go to brands because of the quality, design and fit. I buy a bunch once a year on the Friday after Thanksgiving at the Navy Exchange. 25% discount off already discounted price, tax free. If you are not military, perhaps you can ask a friend/relative to buy it for you if they are shopping that day.
I actually really like that white one your wife got for you, but I can’t seem to find it on their site or secondhand. Do you happen to remember the name of that particular one?
Hey everyone! The traditional Hawaiian designs are too understated/monochromatic for my taste. I understand that many have historical significance and meaning but I'm not from Hawaii and I'm not trying to be Hawaiian by wearing an aloha shirt. I'm fairly fussy when it comes to the shirts in my collection so I really don't want someone else picking one out for me as a present. I appreciate the thought/effort, but I rarely wear the ones someone else has bought for me. I'm very particular about design and color combinations. They both have to catch my eye and when I see one that excites me, I immediately know that I want to buy it. I really enjoy a shirt with a chest band design and so Pacific Legend is a brand I like. For a more understated look, Two Palms does a very nice all-over palm tree print in a number of colors that are closer to a traditional Hawaiian design.
thank you from Chicago, so me and my whole family of 12 are there just recently , like you said from your other videos "it can get expensive there" what do you think of those clothing on the flea market from aloha stadium? they are much cheaper for one occasion but the only problem we encounter is that when we are at luau the same family member were wearing the same outfit😆. again much love🤙 aloha
I always have to take an inch and a half off of a Tori Richards shirt because they are too long (a shirt should come down to your crotch line). There are designers in Japan, e.g. Cloudy Moon, who repurpose kimono fabric into aloha shirts that are absolutely gorgeous, but at $150 to $300 I won't be wearing one soon. Okinawa "bingata" fabric with its bold colors are also beautiful, but for some reason, they aren't popular. I'm sure they would sell well with foreigners.
I am also on the short side and Kahalas fit me best. I have 12 Aloha shirts; 4 Kahalas, 4 Spooners, 2 Toris, and 2 Sig Zanes (the more subtle designs). Except for 1 Sig Zane and 2 Spooners, I bought them on sale. My preference is the reverse prints...
Thank you for this video good sir. I have an interview with The State of Hawaii coming up (office / management position). Any recommendations on colors and or style? Solid, pattern, tuck in / trim, or untucked... I need help 😞
Good question. Depends on the job. I would say tuck in your shirt for the interview. If you get the job, keep tucking in your shirt until you get a good sense of the office culture. Most offices allow untucked aloha shirts, but your office may be more formal. For colors and styles, I'd recommend a nice blue with nothing too wild for the pattern. Reyn Spooner or Kahala have nice selections. Nordstrom Rack has good sales on older designs.
Reyn-Spooner rules my wardrobe, but living in Hawaii I don't wear Hawaiian shirts except to formal events. Hawaiian shirts mean you are 1) at work, 2) a salesman, 3) a tourist, or 4) extremely old.........or 5) going to a formal event. T-shirts, shorts and slippahs are what locals wear daily if not any of those 5. If going to a formal event wear shorts, slippahs, and a Reyn-Spooner shirt.
You've mentioned buying your shirts second hand. Are there good thrift stores on the islands? Maui in particular? Would love to hit them up when we visit if there are any.
There's a Boat Broker in California who's name is Jeff Merrill, who has a closet full of Reyn Spooner shirts RU-vid Channel: JYMS-Trawler Specialist Title is: Reyn Spooner Collectors Closet Jeff Merrill This is a walk in closet thats full.
If you like pop culture, Box Lunch has a few flashy Aloha shirts for tourists, but also has some more subtle ones for locals. About 4 years ago I got an all blue Lilo and Stitch shirt that I still wear today.
