Were Hawaiian shirts popular in the 80s? Absolutely, Hawaiian shirts were popular in the 80s, but with notable differences from the 70s. In the 70s, Hawaiian shirts were often worn by celebrities and featured in movies. By the 80s, the style changed a bit. People still loved them, but they became more casual and were often seen at parties and beach events.
Did Hawaiian Shirts Remain Popular in the 80s Like the 70s?
Hawaiian shirts, also known as Aloha shirts, saw a surprising rise in popularity during the 1970s and 1980s. Were hawaiian shirts popular in the 70s? Absolutely! In the 70s, they were often worn by celebrities and featured in movies. Here’s a look at how their popularity changed over the two decades.
Overview of the Fashion Landscape in the Early 80s
In the early 1980s, fashion was moving away from the bright and colorful styles of the 1970s.
People were looking for simpler, more practical clothing. This period saw the rise of minimalist styles, with softer colors like brown, cream, and muted tones becoming popular.
However, as the decade progressed, fashion became bolder, with bright colors and bold silhouettes returning. And Hawaiian style was back!
The 80s Hawaiian shirt style seemed simpler and less patterned.
>> Read more: Are hawaiian shirts 90s trends making a comeback?
The Differences Between Shirts of the 70s and 80s
Hawaiian shirts in the 1970s were often bright and boldly tropical, which is what made them so special. They were a staple of the relaxed, carefree style associated with that era.
While Hawaiian shirts did not disappear in the 1980s, they became less important to mainstream fashion. 80s shirts often came in different cuts and styles, reflecting the decade’s trend toward more structured and sometimes flamboyant clothing.
The overall feel shifted from the relaxed, carefree feel of the 70s to the sleeker look of the 80s.
The Effects of Media and Advertising on the 70s and 80s
Media and advertising have significantly influenced the way Hawaiian shirts are perceived over the decades.
In the 1970s, these shirts became a symbol of leisure and relaxation, largely due to celebrity endorsements and travel advertising. Notable figures like Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley really helped the Hawaiian shirt explode.
As the 1980s progressed, the media shifted to different fashion trends, mostly to more formal and structured styles. While Hawaiian shirts were still around, they weren’t as prominent as they had been in the previous decade. Celebrities like Tom Selleck in Magnum, P.I. continued to wear them, but the overall trend was toward a more polished look.
Tom Selleck is still in love with Aloha shirts
Despite this, the Hawaiian shirt remained a favorite for everyday wear due to its inherent comfort.
6 Perfect Tips for Styling 80s Hawaiian Shirts
Styling an 80s Hawaiian shirt can be a fun way to express your personality and embrace the vibrant spirit of the decade. Here are some simple tips to help you pull it off:
1. Go For a Relaxed And Comfortable Fit
Look for shirts that are slightly loose and comfortable. This was not only an 80s style but also a current one, so avoid anything too tight. A long shirt that hits at the waist is perfect for that laid-back look.
2. Coat It With the Right Pants
High-waisted denim shorts or slim linen pants are often a popular choice by everyone. They simply balance out the bold patterns of the shirt and keep your outfit from feeling too “over the top.” If you want to dress things up, solid-colored trousers or a knee-length skirt can also work.
Aloha shirt with shorts is just perfect
3. Incorporate Prints
Don’t be afraid to mix and match! The thing that makes the Hawaiian shirt special is the print. So, feel free to wear flashy patterns; it’s okay, but mix and match them appropriately.
4. Don’t Forget Your Accessories
Some people won’t want to wear them, but if you do, it will enhance your style a lot! Try adding some colorful bracelets, a chunky necklace (or a necklace) or sunglasses. As for shoes, canvas sneakers or sandals are the number one choice, don’t try to change things up.
5. Play With Your Hairstyle
Hairstyles are not too important because each hairstyle suits different people, right? But if you’re looking to change your hairstyle to something more like the 80s, try loose waves or a high ponytail with a scrunchie. You’ll look very different and wait for the “wow” from everyone.
6. Layering
A new style that you can change to make it less boring is to wear a shirt layer (maybe two) over a tank top or plain T-shirt. Remember, a PLAIN shirt. Wearing two shirts with the same pattern will be confusing, and they will definitely not like that “style.”
Aloha shirt with a plain T-shirt
>> Read more: What is a hawaiian shirt? Everything you need to know
FAQs
Are the fabrics of 80s Aloha shirts different from today?
Yes, the fabrics of 80s Aloha shirts were often lighter and more breathable, commonly made from cotton or rayon. Today, Aloha shirts may incorporate a wider variety of materials, including blends with synthetic fibers for added durability.
Is the 80s design better or the current design?
No, or at least that’s what I think. Because today, fashion trends are becoming more diverse. As Hawaiian shirts have become super viral, there are more and more different patterns and colors available. And of course, this means you will have many more options to choose from that suit your personal style.
Whether or not 1980s designs are better than current designs is subjective and all up to you!
In conclusion, Hawaiian shirts stayed popular in the 80s, changing in style but still showing the relaxed vibe of the decade. Their bright patterns and comfortable fit are still loved today, making bulk Hawaiian shirts a great choice for those who appreciate the timeless appeal of Aloha shirts.
After a successful career as a renowned fashion designer, Ashley Isham took a surprising turn in 2024 by launching Tapa Aloha Shirt. This venture into casual wear marked a departure from his previous work, but Isham saw it as an opportunity to connect with a wider audience and elevate the Hawaiian shirt to a fashion staple. The TapaAlohaShirt website, filled with informative content, reflects Isham’s ambition to redefine the Hawaiian shirt and make it a must-have piece in today’s fashion landscape.
