Hawaiian Shirt Size Guide

A Hawaiian shirt is meant to feel easy: cool, breezy and relaxed. But “relaxed” only works when the size is right. Too small and the buttons pull across your chest; too big and the shirt swallows you. This Hawaiian shirt size guide explains how an aloha shirt should fit, which measurements matter most and how to choose between sizes for men and women.

How Should a Hawaiian Shirt Fit?

Hawaiian shirts are cut with a boxy, straight silhouette and a straight hem that is worn untucked. A good fit looks like this:

• Chest: the front lies flat with no pulling or gaps between the buttons, and you can pinch about 2 to 4 inches of extra fabric on each side.
• Shoulders: the shoulder seam sits at or just past the edge of your shoulder.
• Length: the hem lands around the middle of your zipper or the top of your back pockets, long enough to cover your waistband when you raise your arms.
• Sleeves: short sleeves end around mid-bicep and stand slightly away from the arm.

The Measurements That Matter Most

1. Chest (bust)

Hawaiian shirt charts usually list the bust, the full circumference of the shirt around the chest. To compare it with a shirt you own, button it, lay it flat, measure straight across just below the armpits and double the number.

2. Length

Measure from the top of the shoulder next to the collar down to the hem. Because the shirt is worn untucked, length decides whether the look is neat or sloppy.

3. Shoulder width

Measure across the back from seam to seam. If you have broad shoulders, check this number before the chest.

You will find the exact numbers for every size, from S to 6XL, on our size chart under Hawaiian Shirts. Need help measuring? Follow our step-by-step guide on how to measure your shirt size at home.

Choosing a Size for Men

• Start with your usual shirt size and compare the bust measurement with a button-up that fits you well.
• If the buttons on your current shirts tend to pull, or you are between sizes, choose the larger size.
• For a dressier look, pick the size with the closest shoulder match so the seams sit right at the edge of your shoulders.

Choosing a Size for Women

• Most Hawaiian shirts are cut unisex, so they run larger than women’s blouses.
• For a classic fit, choose one size down from your usual women’s size.
• For an oversized look you can knot at the waist or wear as a beach cover-up, order your usual size.

Plus and Big & Tall Sizes

Our Hawaiian shirts are available up to 6XL. Because the cut is already relaxed, most people find their usual plus size comfortable. Check the length as well as the bust if you are tall, and size up if you want extra length.

How to Keep the Fit After Washing

Wash your shirt inside out in cold water and tumble dry low or hang to dry. High heat can shrink fabric slightly and fade bright prints. Hang the shirt right after washing to reduce wrinkles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Hawaiian shirts run big?

They are cut loose on purpose. If you want a closer fit, compare the chart with a shirt you own instead of assuming you need to size down.

Should a Hawaiian shirt be tight or loose?

Loose. It should drape away from the body without hanging off you.

Can I exchange my shirt for another size?

Yes, eligible unworn items can be returned within 30 days of delivery. See our Return & Refunds Policy.

Find Your Hawaiian Shirt

Now that you know your size, browse our Hawaiian shirts and all over print shirts. Not sure what to wear it with? Read how to style a Hawaiian shirt for men and women.