As you’re gearing up for an unforgettable luau party, you might be wondering what to wear to fit in with the tropical atmosphere. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through a stylish and practical fashion guide for both men and women. Let’s explore the world of luau attire and uncover the perfect outfit that exudes that laid-back Hawaiian charm.
What is a Luau Party?
To kick off our exploration of luaus, let’s start with the essence of what makes one so special. Picture yourself surrounded by palm trees gently swaying in the breeze, the warm glow of tiki torches casting a festive ambiance, and the infectious rhythms of ukulele music filling the air. A luau is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that combines traditional Hawaiian culture with lively celebration.
It’s as if you’re transported to a tropical oasis where fun and feasting come together in perfect harmony. For those looking for a deeper understanding of this beloved cultural phenomenon, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on the history and culinary delights of luaus.
What to Wear to a Luau for Women
When attending a luau as a woman, dressing appropriately is a breeze. The go-to choice is often a stunning Hawaiian dress or tropical-inspired sundress. While you can’t go wrong with a Tommy Bahama or Hilo Hattie piece, any vibrant floral maxi dress would also make a fantastic statement. For women, the key to dressing for a luau is to opt for outfits that exude a playful, island vibe.
A Hawaiian Print Dress
When it comes to dressing up for a luau, nothing beats the classic charm of a Hawaiian print dress. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect tropical frock, Tommy Bahama and Hilo Hattie are two fantastic options to consider. Alternatively, online retailers like Amazon, REVOLVE, and Lulus offer an impressive array of dresses featuring stunning Hawaiian prints – not to mention their wedding guest dress collections perfect for a Hawaiian wedding celebration!
For those who prefer to shop locally, Whalers Village in Lahaina is a treasure trove of stores where you can find the ideal dress to wear to your next luau.
Flower Power Accessories
Adding a touch of tropical flair to your hairstyle is a must-do at a Hawaiian Luau! As you’re getting ready to party with the locals, consider adorning yourself with flower accessories to truly embody the Aloha spirit. I’m absolutely enamored with these stunning Hawaiian hair flower clips on Amazon – they’re perfect for adding a whimsical touch to your locks. You can wear them as a statement piece while sporting loose locks or pair them with a sleek low ponytail for a chic, effortless look.
And did you know that in Hawaiian culture, the placement of a flower hair clip behind one’s ear holds special significance? It’s believed that a clip on the right side indicates singleness, while a clip on the left signals a romantic commitment – whether it’s engagement, marriage, or an ongoing relationship. So go ahead, get creative with your hairstyle, and let the spirit of Hawaii guide you!
A Hawaiian Print Skirt
For a stylish and relaxed look, consider pairing a Hawaiian print skirt with a crisp white tank top. The combination is ideal for capturing the laid-back essence of island culture. When it comes to finding the perfect tropical skirt, retailers like Lulus and Target offer a range of options that would be perfect for wearing to a traditional Hawaiian luau.
Vibrant Sundresses
When it comes to dressing for a luau, a vibrant sundress or summer dress is a great choice for women. Not only do they add a pop of color to the outfit, but they also evoke a sense of carefree summertime fun. Amazon offers a wide selection of sundresses in bold floral prints and playful colors, making it easy to find one that fits your personal style.
Ruffled Tropical Rompers
For a Hawaiian luau, you don’t have to limit yourself to traditional attire. A tropical or ruffled romper is an excellent choice for both teenagers and women. The versatility of this outfit makes it perfect for the occasion. You can find a wide range of options online, from cute designs for teens to stylish choices for women. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, REVOLVE offers a variety of high-end tropical rompers that are sure to turn heads.
A Tropical Maxi Dress
When it comes to dressing for a tropical luau, one essential item that deserves consideration is the humble tropical maxi dress. Not only do these flowy, floor-sweeping garments exude a carefree island vibe, but they also boast an added layer of comfort and practicality. As a bonus, maxi dresses are incredibly versatile – suitable for everything from casual gatherings to more formal events.
Comfortable Sandals
When it comes to dressing for a Hawaiian luau, the Aloha State’s relaxed vibe means you can leave your high heels at home and opt for something more laid-back instead. A comfortable pair of sandals or even embellished flip flops would be perfectly suitable attire for the occasion.
A Beachy Purse
When it comes to completing your Hawaiian luau look, skip the flashy handbag and opt for a more laid-back, island-inspired accessory instead. A woven tote, a rattan bag, or a straw clutch will complement your outfit perfectly, adding a touch of effortless style to your overall ensemble.
Anything Tropical!
For a tropical getaway or a festive Hawaiian luau, the key to pulling off a stylish outfit is all about feeling confident and radiant. Whether you opt for a bold print dress, a pair of colorful shorts, or a flowy sundress, as long as your attire exudes warmth and vibrancy, you’ll blend seamlessly into the island atmosphere.
What to Wear to a Luau for Guys
When it comes to deciding what to wear to a luau, guys have it easy! A classic Hawaiian shirt paired with relaxed-fit shorts like khakis or linen is a timeless combination. Add some stylish dressy sandals or boat shoes and you’re all set. But if you want more ideas on how to dress for the occasion, keep reading.
A Hawaiian Shirt
Looking for the ultimate Hawaiian shirt for your next luau? Look no further than Tommy Bahama or local Hawaiian stores! For a more laid-back option, consider shopping on Amazon for affordable and stylish options from Hawaiian brands. Whatever your style, these retailers are sure to bring a touch of aloha spirit to your outfit.
A White Linen Shirt
For those who find Hawaiian shirts too bold, a crisp white linen shirt is an excellent alternative for men’s luau attire. Brands like Tommy Bahama and Kenny Flowers offer great options, with Kenny Flowers’ Casa Blanca white linen shirt being a standout choice.
Casual Shorts
Lightweight Pants
For those who prefer longer bottoms, khaki pants and white linen pants are excellent alternatives for a luau. Not only do they provide a more relaxed fit, but they can also add a touch of sophistication to your overall look.
Basic Polo Shirt
While a traditional Hawaiian shirt is the ultimate choice for this outfit, you can also opt for a polo shirt in a soft, pastel shade that complements the relaxed vibe. Salmon, light green, and baby blue are excellent options as they bring a playful touch to the overall look. Navy blue is also a great alternative, as it adds a sense of sophistication without overpowering the laid-back spirit.
On the other hand, darker colors like burgundy, black, or dark green might not be the best choice, as they could give off a more formal tone that doesn’t quite fit with the casual atmosphere.
Sandals
At a Hawaiian luau, the focus is on relaxation and having a good time, rather than dressing up in formal attire. While you won’t need to don your best suit or cocktail dress, there are still some guidelines to keep in mind when it comes to footwear. For example, brown sandals are an excellent choice as they can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Just be sure to avoid flip-flops, which may not be the most practical or stylish option for this type of event.
Boat Shoes
When it comes to dressing for a luau, a pair of boat shoes or classic closed-toe brown shoes are excellent choices. Their casual yet stylish vibe makes them ideal for the laid-back atmosphere of this tropical celebration.
Where to Shop for Clothes to Wear to a Luau
When it comes to outfitting yourself for a luau, one store stands out from the rest: Tommy Bahama. This iconic brand offers an impressive collection of stylish shirts for men and elegant dresses for women that are sure to make you feel like a tropical king or queen. Whether you’re looking for a casual, laid-back vibe or something more dressy and formal, Tommy Bahama has got you covered.
Local Boutiques
When it comes to dressing up for a Hawaiian gathering or special event, look no further than the numerous local boutiques on the islands of Hawaii and Maui. These unique shops offer an array of authentic, handpicked items that showcase the Aloha State’s signature style. Men can find stylish Hawaiian shirts, while women can choose from an assortment of beautiful Hawaiian dresses.
Each boutique is a treasure trove of island flair, making it easy to find the perfect outfit for your next luau or celebration.
Tommy Bahama
I’m utterly fond of Tommy Bahama for tropical attire that exudes a sense of relaxed elegance. The brand offers an impressive range of resort wear, Hawaiian-inspired clothing, and luau essentials for both men and women. Whether you’re looking for a stylish Hawaiian shirt for him or a vibrant tropical dress for her, Tommy Bahama has got you covered.
For guys unsure about what to wear to a luau, a simple yet effective combination would be any of their iconic shirts paired with khaki shorts – and you’ll be ready to island-hop in no time! To get started, simply head over to the Tommy Bahama website and explore their selection of luau clothes for men here.
Lilly Pulitzer
For those planning to attend a luau, Lilly Pulitzer offers an extensive collection of tropical-inspired dresses that are sure to make you feel like a island goddess. Not only do they have stunning options for adults, but their designs also cater well to teen girls looking to make a splash at the party. Whether you’re looking for something playful and bright or elegant and sophisticated, Lilly Pulitzer’s luau dresses have got you covered.
To explore their collection and find the perfect dress for your luau adventure, simply click here.
Amazon
For a quick and stylish delivery, head over to Amazon where you’ll discover an array of vibrant Hawaiian shirts and dresses. Not only will you find standalone pieces, but also matching outfits for couples looking to make a statement on their tropical getaways. To give you a head start, I’ve curated my top picks for luau-inspired attire for both guys and girls – check it out here!
Kenny Flowers
For those seeking stylish attire for a Hawaiian luau or tropical getaway, Kenny Flowers is an excellent destination. The brand offers an impressive collection of classy and fun shirts for men, as well as dresses for women that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your outfit or want to make a bold statement, Kenny Flowers has something for everyone.
Explore the range of tropical dresses for women by visiting their website, and check out the selection of tropical shirts for men for the ultimate in style and comfort. Additionally, Kenny Flowers also offers adorable matching bachelorette sarongs and family swimwear options, making it an ideal one-stop shop for all your vacation wardrobe needs.
Luau Outfit Ideas for Women and Men
For those seeking stylish yet budget-friendly attire for a Hawaiian luau, the following affordable outfit ideas cater to women’s preferences.
Hawaiian Shirt + Khaki Pants (for Men)
For any occasion that calls for a laid-back, tropical vibe, look no further than the classic combination of a Hawaiian shirt and khaki pants. Whether you’re heading to a luau in Hawaii or a beachside resort in Florida, this timeless ensemble is sure to impress. The iconic floral pattern on a high-quality Hawaiian shirt instantly transports you to a sunny island getaway, while the earthy tone of khaki pants provides a reliable foundation for your outfit.
Tropical Maxi Dress + Sandals (for Women)
Step into the tropics with this stunning maxi dress, ideal for making a splash at your next Hawaiian-themed event or beachside celebration. Whether you’re posing for romantic engagement photos or simply want to add some island flair to your wardrobe, this beautiful dress is sure to impress.
Tropical Dress + a Lei
A tropical getaway-inspired ensemble that’s both budget-friendly and stylish – this Hawaiian luau outfit from Amazon ticks all the right boxes. With its affordability and charm, it’s no wonder why many have fallen in love with this piece.
Dresses for a Hawaiian Luau
For a stylish and festive look at your next luau, I’m obsessed with these tropical dresses. If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out Tommy Bahama and Lilly Pulitzer for their stunning collections. Plus-size fashionistas can also find plenty of gorgeous options at Show Me Your Mumu. And if budget is a concern, Amazon offers a range of affordable Hawaiian luau party dresses that won’t break the bank.
Two Palms Linen Dress
Indulge in the essence of tropical bliss with the Two Palms Linen Dress by Tommy Bahama. This stunning floral design is sure to transport you to a Hawaiian luau, complete with its lightweight linen fabric and comfortable fit available in sizes ranging from XXS to XL.
Darcy Georgia O’Reef Dress
Experience the essence of tropical bliss with the Darcy Georgia O’Reef Dress, a stunning piece that’s sure to turn heads. Imagine yourself wearing this adorable dress, paired with comfortable wedges or sandals, and completing the look with a stylish straw clutch (like the one from Amazon).
ANRABESS Split Maxi Dress with Pockets
The ANRABSESS Sundress with Pockets is a tropical treat that’s hard to resist. This versatile sundress is available in a range of sizes, from small to XX-large, making it suitable for women of all shapes and sizes. What’s more, it often goes on sale on Amazon, providing an added incentive to purchase.
SimpleFun Casual Boho Tank Dress
Step into the tropical vibe with this SimpleFun Tropical Leaf Dress, an unbeatable combination of affordability and style. For under $35, you can own a dress that’s perfect for a Hawaiian luau party, complete with a flattering design, fun features like pockets, and a lightweight fabric that keeps you cool on warm summer days. Say aloha to your wardrobe woes and hello to this delightful addition.
Hair and Makeup to Wear to a Hawaiian Luau
To fully immerse yourself in the Hawaiian luau vibe, it’s crucial to nail both your hairstyle and makeup. For a relaxed, effortless hairdo, consider beachy waves, loose braids or wearing your locks down with a side pin. This laid-back look will perfectly capture the carefree essence of a tropical island getaway. When it comes to makeup, keep things natural and understated. A sheer foundation like Estee Lauder’s sheer tint foundation is a great choice.
Add some definition with a swipe of mascara and then add a pop of color with sparkly eyeshadow – Too Faced’s offerings are a great place to start! Finally, finish off the look with Dior’s Addict Lip Glow in Cherry for a subtle, sun-kissed glow.
Conclusion
As you wrap up the tropical experience, don’t forget to infuse it with that quintessential Hawaiian flair. Imagine ladies flaunting stunning dresses and gents pairing them with khaki shorts and Hawaiian shirts – a match made in island heaven! Embracing the relaxed atmosphere while looking effortlessly chic is what makes Hawaiian luaus so alluring. And let’s not overlook the best part: these gatherings are all about having fun, capturing that carefree vacation spirit!
So, don your flower accessories, slip into those stylish sandals, and get ready to lose yourself in the hula rhythms. P. S. If you’ve stumbled upon a luau that left you utterly spellbound, share your top picks for the ultimate luau experience on the big island or in Maui by dropping a comment below. Let’s keep the aloha spirit alive and the good times rolling! Mahalo!
More Guides on What to Wear in Hawaii
When it comes to dressing for a wedding or vacation in Hawaii, the warm tropical climate and laid-back island vibe play a significant role in shaping your wardrobe choices. A resort wear dress, for instance, is an excellent option for both occasions. Consider incorporating lightweight fabrics, bright colors, and floral patterns into your outfits to blend seamlessly with the stunning Hawaiian landscape.
The key is to look stylish yet comfortable while navigating the islands’ lush scenery and sun-kissed beaches.
