Hawaiian Shirts
Even the most rigorous deal makers need time to let loose, and just like any time of day, there is a strict dress code, and that dress code is laidback party dad. Well deserved after a week of raging conference calls (and throwing phones at interns).
You’ve probably read my article about the recent wave of the dad style that’s been infiltrating men’s closets for the past year. You can read is here:
Hawaiian shirts are now considered optimal men’s style. And if you think I’m crazy, just look at the summer lines of H&M, Zara, Prada, and anything casual at Macy’s.
The new summer party uniform of Hawaiian shirts, should be even more important considering this #MeToo environment, a time when it’s hard to remember that there are plenty of good guys that just want to have a few beers, cigars, and a good time. It reminds people that men can still be masculine and confident but silly and warm at the same time.
Hawaiian shirts, and the more obnoxious the better, are a symbol of manly pride.
Hawaiian shirts are an article of masculinity that symbolizes confidence. After all, if you’re willing to wear a Hawaiian shirt with dinosaurs on it, like the ones you used to play with as a kid, then you clearly don’t care what anyone thinks. The confidence of a true deal maker.
It’s that sense of carefree confidence that makes it so manly. An air of carefree childness. Something light hearted.
Wear to Buy
You can buy a Hawaiian shirt at just about any men’s fashion retailer this summer. But whether it’s a high end Gucci or a clearance TJ Maxx off-brand, the piece must communicate a genuine celebration of fun in the sun, sand, and surf - even if the only place you’ll actually wear it is on a Manhattan rooftop.
And nothing says genuine fun loving Hawaiian like a real Hawaiian shirt, just like the kind your dad used to wear. As a matter of fact, I would look in his closet first.
The problem with these fancy Prada shirts is that they try too hard. No one should pay $400 for a shirt that is much less fun than its $35 counterpart. Fancy shirts miss the essence of crime fighting Magnum PI. They’re expensive for the sake of expensive, which is the kind of attitude that doesn’t say fun and light hearted. Cheaper shirts from H&M should have done the job but since they’re designed for the tropical hipster, the main essence is missing as well.
This is not what I had in mind!
Stick to classic dad brands such as Tommy Bahama, Club Monaco, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Most shirts are under $100 but you can get something cheaper on sale.
Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously!
The more ridiculous, the more fun you’ll have. After all, you should always dress the way you want to feel. I don’t care how polished you think you are (I work in finance too), if you think there is never a good time to put on a wacky shirt, then go back home and pick up your sense of humor. You probably left it between your safe space and anxiety medication.
Use the shirt as a way of boundless self expression, a symbol of your sense of humor. It’ll be a focus of the party, and you’ll get all the right kinds of attention. It’s actually quite surprising!
Note: Nobody likes a James Bond. You’ll have more success with women when you’re laid back and silly.
Some ideas include silly animals (flamingos and parrots to name a couple), fruit (pineapples are a big one but I’ve also seen watermelon), or general summer or beach scenery (boats, palm trees, or beach balls).
In almost any case, the shirt should be bright and loud.
There are few instances where you want to wear something that says “Hey everyone! Look at me!” but when it’s in the spirit of careless good fun, then it’s almost welcome by everyone, perhaps even a little heroic since you’re silly self deprecating attitude makes everyone else feel more at ease.
So that’s it! Go be the legendary party animal and let loose! You’ll be surprised of all the great things that will happen…
Yves Saint Real Deal, Ltd.